10 October

International minister John Bevere signs with W Publishing Group

W Publishing Group, an imprint of Thomas Nelson Publishing, today announced a one-book deal with bestselling author John Bevere. The Awe of God: The Astounding Way a Healthy Fear of God Transforms Your Life is slated to go on-sale in February 2023. Bevere is represented by Esther Fedorkevich of The Fedd Agency. World rights were acquired by W Publishing Senior Acquisitions Editor Kyle Olund.

Along with his wife, Lisa, Bevere is the co-founder of Messenger International—a ministry committed to revolutionizing global discipleship.

“We are honored to lock arms with John and Messenger International to shepherd this important message to the world,” said Damon Reiss, Vice President and Publisher, W Publishing Group. “This book, full of John’s trademark bold, scriptural teaching, promises to be a positive disruption for readers looking for true intimacy with God.”

In The Awe of God, Bevere invites readers to take a fresh look at what it means to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. This healthy, holy, and largely forgotten virtue is the uncommon path to a more fulfilled and fruitful life. Written in 42 short chapters, readers are encouraged to go through it one day at time, or one chapter in the morning and another that evening. Each chapter contains “5 P’s” for reflection and application: Passage, Point, Ponder, Prayer, Profess.

Bevere is an international bestselling author who has written more than 20 books that have, collectively, sold millions of copies and been translated into 129 languages. Bevere lives in Franklin, TN, where you’ll find him loving on his grandbabies, playing pickleball, or trying to convince Lisa to take up golf.

Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, cookbooks, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Media Contact:

Allison Carter

Director of Publicity, W Publishing

[email protected]

15 June

Thomas Nelson longtime editor Debbie Wickwire announces retirement

Dawn Hollomon promoted to acquisitions editor for W Publishing Group

(Nashville, Tenn.) June 15, 2021— Damon Reiss, vice president and publisher of W Publishing Group, an imprint of Thomas Nelson, announced today the impending retirement of 32-year industry veteran Debbie Wickwire, senior acquisitions editor. Dawn Hollomon, senior editor, will move into the acquisitions role.

Wickwire joined Word Publishing in 1989, which was acquired by Thomas Nelson in 1992. Through her long tenure she has worked as a support to the sales team, managed author and brand relationships, and acquired hundreds of book projects. She has been instrumental in developing the publishing phenomenon Heaven Is for Real as well as many other New York Times and CBA bestselling authors such as Anne Graham Lotz, Levi Lusko, Jennie Allen, Kathie Lee Gifford, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and Chip and Joanna Gaines. Her retirement will begin in September.

“I never dreamed God would allow me the honor of working with so many brilliant people and teams through my assignment to discover exceptional authors and publish their books,” says Wickwire. “Though the titles, covers, and even times may have changed, I’m so grateful that the messages of God’s truth, love, and grace have remained the same. It has been an incredibly rewarding career—especially knowing how one book can change someone’s life for eternity!”

“It has been a privilege to work with Debbie,” says Reiss. “Equal parts book magician, counselor, and prayer warrior, she has set the standard of excellence W Publishing is known for and will continue to be after her retirement. She will always be an intricate part of our team, and we celebrate this new season with her.”

Hollomon joined Thomas Nelson in 2014 after serving as lead editor for the magazine HomeLife. After specializing in four-color and high-design projects in the company’s gift book division, Hollomon joined the W Publishing Group imprint in 2019, where she has led the editorial efforts for Dr. David Jeremiah, Kathie Lee Gifford, Hosanna Wong, and Kari Kampakis, among others.

“I am excited to see Dawn thrive in this new role and continue to serve our authors with exceptional care,” says Stephanie Newton, associate publisher of W Publishing Group. “While working with Dawn I’ve constantly been impressed by her dedication to our partners and her focus on bringing impactful books to the lives of believers around the globe. Her voice on our team has been a difference maker and sets W apart in the market.”

Hollomon will move into the acquisitions role immediately, reporting to Damon Reiss and collaborating with Wickwire over the next few months to execute a smooth transition.

Contact:    Allison Carter
Publicity Director, W Publishing
615-902-2143
[email protected]

15 October

W Publishing promotes Allison Carter to publicity director

Nashville, Tenn. (October 15, 2020) — Thomas Nelson today announced Allison Carter’s promotion to publicity director for the W Publishing division, a nonfiction imprint of Thomas Nelson.

Carter has over 18 years of publicity and journalism experience, the past four of which she has spent at HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) managing the publicity for Thomas Nelson and Zondervan fiction titles and most recently W Publishing. She has planned and executed national publicity campaigns for bestsellers including The Hideaway by Lauren Denton, Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan, Send Down the Rain by Charles Martin, Shelter in God by David Jeremiah, and I Still Believe by Jeremy Camp. Prior to HCCP, she spent six years at Southern Living magazine, as well as various agencies and government departments, affording her a breadth of publicity knowledge.

In her new role as publicity director for W Publishing, Carter will oversee the team’s publicity strategy, determining the best approach for gaining the most effective, wide-spread media coverage through strategic campaigns, brand awareness, and author and media relationship building.

“Allison has been a major asset to W Publishing since joining our team last year,” said Caren Wolfe, vice president of marketing for W Publishing. “Her integrity and passion for helping our authors gain the most effective media coverage with the broadest reach possible is second to none. Allison’s strategic and creative thinking has leveled up our publicity offerings, and we are thrilled that she will be leading our overall publicity strategy, as well as working to build strong author relationships.”

Thomas Nelson

About Thomas Nelson: Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Contact:    Chelsea Taff, Assistant Manager

                 Corporate Communications

                  tel:     615.902.2137

                  web:   [email protected]

10 August

Choreographer and Creative Director Laurieann Gibson Signs Book Contract with W Publishing Group

Nashville, Tenn., July 30, 2020 – Thomas Nelson today announced A-list choreographer and creative director Laurieann Gibson has signed a one-book contract with W Publishing Group. Dance Your Dance: 8 Step to Unleash your Passion and Live Your Dream is planned for release in February 2021.

“Laurieann has always danced her own dance and chased her dreams,” said Damon Reiss, vice president and publisher, W Publishing Group. “In this book, she shares her powerful blueprint to help free readers to chase theirs as well. She is as empowering as she is inspiring. We are thrilled to partner with her on this exhilarating message.”

Laurieann Gibson is one of the most important pop culture influencers in entertainment today. Having served as director and choreographer for numerous international superstars such as Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Diddy, and Alicia Keys, Gibson brings a unique brand of blending traditional artist development with movement and dance training to their collaborations. A classically trained dancer, Gibson studied at the prestigious Alvin Ailey Dance Company, segueing from traditional theater dance to hip-hop with breakout artist Mary J. Blige. Over the years, Gibson’s expertise in developing artists’ performance skills along with her choreography and creative insight has led to her choreographing and directing world tours for some of today’s biggest pop acts.

Gibson is a judge on season 17 of FOX’s primetime television show So You Think You Can Dance and is starring on MTV’s reboot of Making the Band. Laurieann lives in Los Angeles, California, with her doggie “son”, Samson.

“Laurieann is one of those rare artists who is gifted at not only executing her own visions but helping others find their way,” says Meaghan Porter, Senior Editor. “Now the same motivation and inspiration she has offered to established stars and up-and-coming performers will be available to anyone who has a dream.”

Gibson is represented by Maximum Artist Group in Nashville, Tenn.

Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, cookbooks, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Contact:    Allison Carter

                 Publicity Manager, W Publishing

                  615-902-2143

                  [email protected]

03 April

Kyle Olund named senior acquisitions editor for W Publishing

Nashville, Tenn. (April 3, 2020) – Thomas Nelson today announced Kyle Olund as senior acquisitions editor for W Publishing, a nonfiction imprint of Thomas Nelson.

In this role Olund will work to acquire key authors as well as discover dynamic, new Christian voices. He will also lead the entire editorial process for his acquired projects, which includes strategic editorial direction, titling, packaging, and author relationship development.

Olund rejoins Thomas Nelson with over thirty years of editorial experience, eleven of which were with Nelson Books, one of Thomas Nelson’s nonfiction imprints. In this role he worked on editorial for bestsellers including Wild at Heart (John Eldredge), Blue Like Jazz (Donald Miller), and Total Money Makeover (Dave Ramsey). Most recently, Olund has served as the executive editor for Worthy Books and FaithWords.

“W Publishing is built on forming and fostering relationships with authors, readers, and most importantly, Jesus.” said Damon Reiss, v-p, publisher for W Publishing. “Kyle’s ability to build strong relationships, coupled with his skilled editorial eye and commitment to excellence make him the right person for the job. I am thrilled to have him join our team.”

Thomas Nelson

About Thomas Nelson: Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Contact:    Chelsea Taff, Assistant Manager

                 Corporate Communications

                 tel:     615-902-2137

                 web:   [email protected]

19 November

Sara Broun hired as publicity director for W Publishing

Nashville, Tenn. (November 19, 2019) — Thomas Nelson today announced Sara Broun as the new publicity director for the W Publishing division.

Broun has over thirteen years of publicity experience, most recently managing national publicity campaigns for authors including Rachel Hollis, Gary Sinise, Kerri Rawson, and Randy Travis. Prior to this, she spent ten years managing entertainment and live event PR for organizations including the Nashville Ballet and Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR).

In her new role as publicity director for W Publishing, Broun will oversee the team’s publicity strategy, determining the best approach for gaining the most effective, wide-spread media coverage through strategic campaigns, brand awareness, and author and media relationship building.

“The W Team is thrilled to have Sara as our new publicity director,” said Caren Wolfe, vice president of marketing for W Publishing. “Her experience, broad-reaching media relationships, and ability to work with authors in various stages of their careers will be a huge asset to our team.”

Thomas Nelson

About Thomas Nelson: Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Contact: Casey Harrell, Senior Director

                Corporate Communications

                tel: 615.902.1109

                web:  [email protected]

07 November

Thomas Nelson announces Damon Reiss as VP, Publisher for W Publishing

(Nashville, Tenn.) November 7, 2019—Thomas Nelson today announced that Damon Reiss, former senior director for HarperCollins Christian Publishing’s (HCCP) custom and backlist program as well as the Christian bookstore key accounts and distributor channels, will become the v-p and publisher for its non-fiction imprint W Publishing. Reiss will lead the acquisition and editorial strategy in addition to marketing oversight for the imprint, reporting to Don Jacobson, senior v-p, Books Group publisher for HCCP. He will also be responsible for maintaining relationships with the strong roster of current W Publishing authors in addition to discovering and growing new Christian voices in the market.

Reiss has worked in the industry for nearly seventeen years, starting his publishing career as a tele-sales representative. In 2011, he began working for Thomas Nelson as a key account manager for Ministry Sales and in 2016 he was promoted to expand the company’s custom publishing program. As head of custom products, Reiss launched two line-extension programs, redeveloping and reengineering backlist products in an innovative way to appeal to new readers.  Reiss has continued to grow his career and industry acumen, collaborating with all in-house publishing teams on custom product initiatives, strategic promotional placement, and essential revised editions of books and Bibles. 

W Publishing has published the works of some of Christian publishing’s most impactful authors like Billy Graham, Dr. David Jeremiah, Louie Giglio, Levi Lusko, Emerson Eggerichs, Anne Graham Lotz, Pastor Robert Morgan, Lindsay Teague Moreno, and Jennie Allen. The imprint represents classic New York Times bestselling books Same Kind of Different As Me, by Ron Hall and Denver Moore, The Noticer by Andy Andrews, Heaven Is For Real by Todd Burpo and more recent bestsellers including The Magnolia Story by Chip and Joanna Gaines, Capital Gaines by Chip Gaines, Racing to the Finish by Dale Earnhardt Jr., and The Rock, the Road, and the Rabbi by Kathie Lee Gifford with Rabbi Jason Sobel. In October, the imprint released Nerves of Steel by Tammie Jo Shults, Captain of Southwest Flight 1380 and one of the Navy’s first female F/A-18 Hornet pilots.

“W Publishing’s historical significance is preeminent in the Christian market and to build off of this success and legacy is an honor,” said Reiss. “I look forward to leading this talented team and shaping the future of W.”

“Damon has proven to be a critical component of HCCP’s fabric,” said Don Jacobson. “His experience as part of our sales team has allowed him to understand authors’ work from an angle we often take for granted.  Damon’s strategy will bring fresh direction to the W Publishing team and he has a rich understanding and passion for all our authors. Damon’s leadership is perfectly fitting for W Publishing and we are excited for the days ahead.”

Reiss will begin his position as v-p and publisher immediately, working to develop a short transitional period for his current role in the company’s sales custom product and sales division.

Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiples formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, Tenn. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com