CrimeCONN 2026
Ferguson Library, Stamford, Conn.
May 16 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
CrimeCONN 2026 invites you to Pick Your Poison
The mystery genre is full of subgenres and sub-subgenres. You can discover how writers convert their life experiences or compelling interests or just plain curiosity into mystery and suspense at CrimeCONN 2026.
Considered one of the premier small-scale mystery writers and lovers conferences, CrimeCONN is cosponsored by the Mystery Writers of America, New York Chapter, and the Ferguson Library in Stamford, Connecticut.
The one-day event will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on May 16 and offers a virtual attendance option. The headliner this year is New York Times bestselling author Alafair Burke, in conversation with John Valeri, acclaimed mystery reviewer and online host.
USA Today bestselling author Hank Phillippi Ryan will hold this year’s one-hour writers workshop, as well as appear on a panel led by Reed Farrel Coleman. Other bestselling and award-winning authors joining panels include Alison Gaylin, Lynne Constantine, Peter Blauner, Kate White and Hilary Davidson. MWA-NY President Daniella Bernett also will serve on a panel.
CrimeCONN also features a perennial favorite, Michelle Clark’s forensic science panel. Michelle is a highly regarded Connecticut death investigator who brings in experts from around the region who give invaluable insight into the real world of crime fighting.
You’d be hard pressed to find more to learn, inform and inspire in the world of
crime writing than CrimeCONN 2026. Lunch and coffee will be served all day.
Discounts for seniors, students, and MWA members. Information on how to register
coming soon.
Pick Your Poison. Crime writers who write what they know. And love. The mystery
genre is full of subgenres and sub-subgenres. Learn how writers convert their life
experiences or compelling interests or just plain curiosity into mystery and suspense.
9:15
Stir it up. Hear writers dish on the role of food in suspense writing.
Moderator: Tom Straw. Ang Pompano, Devon Delaney, Debra Sennefelder
10:15
Sir or Madam, will you read my book? How music informs, enriches and provokes
crime fiction.
Moderator: Jim Fusilli. Peter Blauner, Alison Gaylin, Mary Anna Evans
11:15
Put me in, coach! Hits, misses, and score settling. Authors on the enduring mysteries
of sports.
Moderator: Charles Salzberg. Tessa Wegert, Elise Hart Knipness, Kevin Wade
12:00
Lunch
Writers Workshop.
Hank Phillippi Ryan
1:00
Forensics Panel
Moderator: Michelle Clark. TBD
2:00
Different strokes for different folks. How life’s passions, obsessions, and simple
curiosity can lead to the writing life.
Moderator: Reed Farrel Coleman. Rich Cohen, Daniella Bernett, Hank Phillippi Ryan
3:00
Can’t hold us down. How strong women have come to define 21 st Century crime
writing.
Moderator: Gabi Coatsworth. Kate White, Hilary Davidson and Lynne Constantine
Keynote
Alafair Burke interviewed by John Valeri.