Nicole Meier and
Gretchen Schaffer

Nicole Meier and Gretchen Schaffer are the duo behind Book Works, dedicated to empowering authors through expert book coaching and branding strategies. Part book coaches, part branding experts, they help fiction writers develop strong author platforms and pitch strategies to stand out in the writing world.

Nicole Meier is a certified book coach and author of four upmarket novels, including The House of Bradbury, The Girl Made of Clay, The Second Chance Supper Club, and City of Books. Her books have been recognized by Booklist, Refinery29, BookBub, and Popsugar. She also hosts the The Whole Writer podcast for emerging novelists.

Gretchen Schaffer is a seasoned marketing and PR strategist with experience at industry-leading companies like Adobe, Microsoft, Meta, and Sony. She has crafted innovative campaigns that elevate visibility and brand presence. Now, she channels her expertise into the literary world, helping authors position themselves for success, build their audience, and create compelling pitches that capture attention. Her passion lies in elevating new voices and ensuring writers step confidently into the publishing landscape.

Together, Nicole and Gretchen provide the strategic guidance, industry insight, and encouragement fiction writers need to build their platforms, connect with readers, and confidently pitch their work.

2025 Faculty

Kiik Araki-Kawaguchi

Quenton Baker

Kira Jane Buxton

Sharon Castlen

Claudia Castro Luna

Linda Conroy

Eileen Coughlin

Lisa Dailey

Stephanie Dethlefs

Scott Eagan - Agent

Elaina Ellis

Thor Hanson

Paul Hanson

Lyanda Lynn Haupt

Frances Howard-Snyder

Chloe Hovind

Robert Lashley

Priscilla Long

Laura Mazer - Agent

Rebecca Mabanglo-Mayor

Nicole Meier

Kevin Murphy

Cami Ostman

Rena Priest

Juan Carlos Reyes

Gretchen Schaffer

Kate Trueblood

Elizabeth Wales - Agent

Kami Westhoff

Jane Wong

Contact

Village Books
1200 11th Street
Bellingham, WA 98225
(360) 671-2626

info@chuckanutwritersconference.com