2025 Author Retreat

The 2025 Author Retreat & 9th Annual Women in Literature Awards, held June 6–7 in Quincy, Illinois, brought together authors, readers, and literary advocates for a weekend of inspiration and celebration. Highlights included engaging workshops, a public book reading, and a heartfelt awards gala honoring winners of the Small Bites Short Story Contest and influential women in literature and media. Hosted at the historic Corinthian Event Center, the retreat fostered meaningful connections and creative energy that attendees won’t soon forget.

Exciting Update: The Author Retreat will be rebranded under our new event name, Inklight, ushering in a bold new era of storytelling, connection, and celebration.

JOKER'S LOUNGE MEET & GREET

The Author Retreat Meet & Greet at the Joker’s Lounge brought together indie authors, readers, and literary advocates for an evening of vibrant storytelling and connection. Set in a cabaret-style venue with moody charm, attendees engaged in meaningful conversations over signature cocktails. Mingled with award-winning writers, they captured moments in themed lounge corners, and celebrated the power of words in a space designed to inspire and uplift the literary community.

"Relaxed vibes, powerful connections."

- Jennie Rosenblum, Editor

DINNER & DANCING

The Retreat Social Mixer was a night to remember—filled with laughter, new friendships, and nonstop dancing. Authors and readers came together to unwind, connect, and celebrate the joy of community in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. From spontaneous conversations to shared stories on the dance floor, the evening captured the spirit of togetherness that defined the retreat.

"The retreat Indies United put together was exactly what I needed. The energy from all the attendees was infectious and we all became friends quickly for a great weekend of improving our craft and celebration. My favorite part was the workshops as I now have the guidance I needed to improve my business as an author. Thank you, Indies United!"

- Robert Plant, author

READINGS & WORKSHOPS

The Retreat Book Readings & Workshops offered an inspiring blend of creativity, craft, and connection. Attendees gathered to hear powerful readings from emerging and established voices, each story sparking conversation and reflection. Hands-on workshops provided space to explore new techniques, refine writing skills, and engage in meaningful dialogue with fellow creatives. It was a weekend of learning, sharing, and celebrating the written word.

“Indies United Publishing House has a reputation of hands-on care with their authors, and it came through with the intimate and personal 2025 Authors Retreat in Quincy, Illinois. I was impressed with attendees having traveled there from an array of location and I’m sure they went back home enriched from their time there.”

- Bruce Wawrzyniak, President, Now Hear This, Inc.

AWARDS DINNER

The Awards Gala, held at the Corinthian Event Center in Quincy, Illinois, honored outstanding voices in literature, media, and journalism and recognized those who have inspired others and supported survivors of domestic abuse. The evening celebrated the winners of the Small Bites Short Story Contest, allowing the winners the opportunity to meet and connect with their fellow short story writers. Attendees were moved by heartfelt speeches and powerful stories, creating an atmosphere of reflection and celebration. The event brought together authors, advocates, and creatives for a night that highlighted resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of storytelling.

Attending the author gala was an incredible experience! I advise any independent author to engage and attend if you want to be empowered and know that you can make an impact with your storytelling!

– Rodney Damon Collins, actor | author | advocate

SMALL BITES SHORT STORY WINNERS

Winners were honored for their compelling short fiction, selected from a diverse pool of entries. The ceremony highlighted the creativity and talent of emerging voices, with heartfelt acknowledgments and enthusiastic applause from the audience. The event offered a meaningful platform for authors to be recognized and celebrated, reinforcing the power of storytelling in a supportive literary community.

"Thanks so much for hosting this Author Retreat! I had a lot of fun and really enjoyed it, as well as meeting everyone."

– Scott Meehan, author

9th ANNUAL WOMEN IN LITERATURE, MEDIA & JOURNALISM AWARDS

Honorees were recognized for their outstanding contributions to their fields and their advocacy for survivors of domestic abuse. The evening featured moving tributes to women who have inspired others through leadership, creativity, and resilience. Awardees included industry leaders such as Joylynn Ross, Meredith Prunkard, and Dr. Diana Shakti Luck, whose achievements and stories left a lasting impression on attendees. The ceremony celebrated the power of our voices across storytelling and media.

The retreat and awards gala were beyond inspiring. I was surrounded by an incredible community of talented, generous, and fearless creatives. I walked away with a whole lot of new info, and also new friends, collaborators, and a deeper sense of purpose. The connections I made are already turning into meaningful partnerships!

- Meredith Prunkard, VP of Current at Original Productions

INSPIRATION MEETS COMMUNITY

Throughout the 2025 Indies Author Retreat and Women in Literature Awards Gala, lasting friendships and meaningful connections were formed. Authors, readers, and advocates shared stories, laughter, and inspiration. Attendees exchanged ideas, offered support, and found common ground in their love of storytelling. The weekend fostered a sense of community that extended beyond the event, leaving many feeling creatively recharged and eager to stay connected.

With gratitude and memories to last a lifetime. I'm looking forward to partnering, collaborating, and just being friends with some of my new connections.

– Joylynn Ross, CEO of Path To Publishing

EVENT HOSTS

The 2025 Indies Author Retreat and Women in Literature Awards Gala was hosted by Indies United Publishing House in collaboration with the And I Thought Ladies. Together, they created a welcoming and inspiring environment for authors, readers, and advocates. Their thoughtful planning and engaging programming set the tone for a weekend filled with creativity, connection, and celebration. From coordinating workshops to leading the awards presentations, the hosts ensured every detail reflected their commitment to storytelling and community. Their efforts left a lasting impression on attendees and helped foster a memorable literary experience.

Thank you to all who attended the Author Retreat and Awards Gala this year. It was an amazing weekend and a delight to meet you all. I hope to see you all again next year!

–Lisa Orban, Indies United Publishing House

A LITTLE VIDEO FUN

WE'RE ALREADY PLANNING NEXT YEAR'S AUTHOR RETREAT!

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE!