The Mystery Writers of America (MWA), a national mystery writers’ organization, will present an intensive course in writing and selling novels at the Hilton Garden Inn in Bothell (22600 Bothell Everett Hwy).

The event is open to the public and will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on June 24.

Attendees will learn ways to overcome various hurdles — from having a great idea but not knowing what to do with it, to sending out manuscripts but having no takers, to self publishing and finding sales hard to come by — in a one-day seminar presented by two writing professionals.

James Ziskin is the Edgar-Award nominated author of the Ellie Stone mystery series. He will cover writing topics ranging from dramatic structure and plot, to setting and description, to characters, conflict, intrigue and more.

Beth Jusino teaches techniques for book promotion and marketing. She has years of experience as an author, literary agent, editor, instructor and a consultant in the art of selling books online and through traditional channels.

The instructors will use mystery writing as their primary example but their techniques are applicable to creating and selling good stories in any genre.

Registration fees are $80 for MWA members and $90 for non-members. Registration is limited and the early registration deadline is Saturday. After that, if places are still available, the cost will be $110 for members and non-members.

To learn more or to register, visit the MWA Northwest website at mwanorthwest.com or the MWA Northwest Facebook page at tinyurl.com/yazag6w3.