Hear from local mystery and crime writers and editors as they share their experiences writing, editing, and publishing short fiction.
The evening will begin with a presentation by editor and writer Bernadette Cox, co-editor of A Capital Mystery, who will discuss what editors look for in a short-story submission, common challenges writers face, and characteristics of successful stories.
Following the presentation, Bernadette Cox, Mike Martin, Bernadette Hendrickx, and Kathy MacLellan will take part in a panel discussion exploring the creative and editorial journey from first draft to publication. Drawing on their experiences as authors and editors, the panelists will discuss topics such as revision, the writer-editor relationship, submission processes, editorial decision-making, and opportunities for publication.
The program will also feature an extended audience Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions about writing, editing, publishing, and the craft of short fiction. Panelists may also provide constructive feedback on attendee-submitted opening paragraphs, highlighting strengths, opportunities for revision, and editorial considerations.
Whether you are an aspiring writer or simply curious about the publishing process, this program offers a unique look behind the scenes of short-story creation and publication, with examples and insights from Ottawa's writing community.
About the Editors
Bernadette Cox turned to independent editing, proofreading and writing 14 years ago after a 32-year journalism and public relations career. She's worked in the agriculture, municipal affairs, health and labour sectors and is an editor of Mike Martin's Sgt. Windflower Mystery series.
Mike Martin is the author of the Sgt. Windflower Mystery series and the main organizer of this project. His role has been to assist the main editor, Bernadette Cox, and in providing overall coordination for this collection. He is past Chair of Crime Writers of Canada and a member of Capital Crime Writers and the Newfoundland Writing Guild
About the Authors
Bernadette Hendrickx devoted her career as a theatre artist and ESL teacher to giving newcomers to Canada a voice. She now dedicates her time to writing poems and tales that highlight the absurdity of hatred. Her stories have appeared in the anthologies A Capital Mystery (I and II) and One of Us is a Robot (October 31, 2026). She loves reading, singing, and scenic rail adventures.
Kathy MacLellan is a writer, actor and puppeteer who has criss-crossed Canada and the US as a performer and co-director of Rag & Bone Puppet Theatre for many years. Writing credits include an ACTRA award, plays, puppet shows, dozens of CBC-TV episodes for shows such as Under the Umbrella Tree, Mr. Dressup and Theodore Tugboat, and her Miss Maple Mysteries podcast series. Her short story, "Imogen St. Pierre is Dead", was published in A Capital Mystery.
Accessibility
Ottawa Public Library is committed to making its programs accessible to everyone. If you need specific accommodations, please fill out this form: https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/accessible-services-request-form
We prefer at least three weeks' notice for accommodation requests.