Category: Writer’s Notes

Information and opinions from fellow authors covering monthly topics such as Contests, Conferences, Mentors, and Writing Clubs. Even seasoned authors learn something here.

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Writer's Notes

Breaking My Own Rule

A review of Shot to Pieces: A Novel by Michael O’Keefe

Review by Thonie Hevron

Shot to Pieces coverBlurb: SHOT TO PIECES is the story of NYPD 1st Grade Detective Padraig Joseph Durr. Durr is tasked with solving a particularly grisly gang related homicide in Brooklyn. When Paddy catches the squeal, he is also on the verge of an emotional and psychological breakdown. Because of his penchant for self-destruction, fueled by a childhood of abuse and sexual exploitation, coupled with an ingrained sense of worthlessness and abandonment, Durr has brought his entire life to the brink of ruin. Can he hold it together long enough to solve this murder? Can he fix himself enough to be re-united with the one true love of his life and his family? Or will he implode, irrevocably destroying his career, his family and himself?
A few weeks ago, I was contacted by fellow Public Safety Writers Association author Michael O’Keefe. He asked me to read and review his debut novel, Shot to Pieces: A Novel. I told him that I would happily read it as it is a genre in which I write—police procedural, but I don’t do book reviews on my blog. I don’t have an MFA, nor any formal education in literature. I felt unqualified to make a comprehensive review. I am religious about leaving reviews on Amazon, however, and that is what I told him I’d do. We exchanged books the next day. He read mine and posted a very nice 5-star review on Amazon. Read it here.

I, however, was bogged down enough that I couldn’t finish his book until today. I began Shot to Pieces with the expectation of reading a depressing police procedural. Check out the blurb above to see why. But I’d committed to read the book, so I read on.
And boy, am I glad I did! This was one exciting, wild ride with a lot of heart. I’m a west coast law enforcement veteran, so some of the situations hero Paddy Durr gets himself into seem foreign to me. But here’s the deal: they are believable. I can see these things happening during an active career. As can be expected, NYPD differs from small town agencies I worked for. But the personalities of the other detectives, brass, and mutts are collages of many personalities I know!

And the hero, Paddy Durr, has many traits—both desirable and unfortunate—that make him a realistic and exciting protagonist. He’s prone to trouble—you already know that. But his observations on the job are stunning, particularly one in Chapter 27 where his fiancé asks why all the cops in the area come to see him while he’s being treated in the ER. I’ll start the paragraph for you, but you’ll have to read it for the full effect. “Active cops are a different breed. We’re the gunfighters, the alpha dogs of the police department. We’re not special, just different. … So, this pilgrimage is as much away to say I’m glad we’re not meeting at your funeral as it is to say thank you for reminding me to get my head out of my ass. An event like this forces everybody to get back on their A-game.”

M O Keefe
Author Michael O’Keefe

 

Every page is laced with an unusual combination of intelligence, testosterone, and heart. It’s gritty, it’s real, and moved me to tears a few times. Make no mistake: Paddy’s story is basically a love story—his love for the job and all it stands for as well as his love for his wife and family. However, if you’re a romance reader, take a pass on this book.

 

But if you enjoy police procedurals like Michael Connelly and Joseph Wambaugh, this is right up your alley. I may not have the ed creds to analyze Shot to Pieces (aside from a little head-hopping now and then) but I know what I like.

So, it’s my blog and I can break my own rules: I highly recommend Shot to Pieces: A Novell!

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Writer's Notes

Writer’s Contests Do’s and Don’ts by Donna Schlachter

By Donna Schlachter

 

Mail Order Brides cover
Read Donna’s A Train Ride to Heartbreak inside!

So you read about the latest contest, you snag a file from one of your computer folders, attach it, pay the entry fee, and sit back, waiting for THE CALL. Because, after all, this is the best thing you’ve ever written—at least, that’s what your mother said three years ago when you showed it to her.
And then you get the news: you didn’t even final, let alone win. And the judges’ comment attached confirmed what you knew all along: the contest was a scam. These people just don’t get your writing style. They know nothing.
Or do they?
Writing contests are about as different as cats. Sure, all cats have claws and whiskers and they meow, but not all cats are the same. Some like to cuddle. Some like to romp. And some just don’t care whether you’re dead or alive so long as you feed them.
Writing contests are the same: some make you feel warm and fuzzy; some challenge you to do better; and some are only in it for the money.
How do we wade through the mire? Here’s a short and by no means exhaustive list of things to look for in a writing contest, as well as a list of suggestions for succeeding in contests.

 

Choosing a Contest:
1. What are you hoping to get out of it? Do you hope to win the grand prize, or simply get some feedback on the first 15 pages before you spend the next year writing the book?
2. If you want to win the grand prize, read the instructions that come with every contest. Sometimes cleverly disguised as Rules, these parameters tell you how to get past the gatekeeper.
3. Does this group hold more than one contest per year? If so, that might be their only business. Beware.
4. Does this contest promise publication to the winner? If so, beware. Nobody should guarantee publication because even a winner can be really badly written.
5. If the contest publishes a list of past winners, check them out. Are the authors now published? And is it with a traditional publisher or a vanity press? Many contests turn into tough sales pitches for every entrant, asking thousands of dollars for editing, cover design, book formatting, and the like.
6. Does your story really fit the genre? If you choose a category, make sure you choose wisely. Judges who read sci-fi simply won’t get your chick-lit book simply because you thought the competition might be less there.
7. Have you done more than pull out an old file and send it off? Read through, polish, edit, revise before hitting SEND. If you’ve lived more than fifteen minutes since you first wrote it, you’ve learned something about the craft of writing.
8. Do you recognize the names of any of the judges? Can you search for them online? Do they all work for the same company? Beware.
9. How does the scoring work? If there are three judges and all scores are included, you might end up with a lower score than if the lowest one is dropped and the other two averaged. Sometimes judges just don’t “get” the story, and that’s okay. Not all readers will “get” it, either. You shouldn’t be penalized because one out of three was having a bad day, or got buttonholed into judging sci-fi when they really like Amish mysteries.
10. Will you receive written feedback either in the form of judges’ comments or an evaluation sheet? This is sometimes worth more than the grand prize. Contests that seek to improve your writing are always the best place to invest your money and time.

Succeeding in a Contest
1. Read the rules.
2. Follow the rules EXACTLY. If the rules say 1/4 inch margin and quadruple spaced, do it. You don’t have to like it. They make the rules. They will judge your work based on your ability to follow instructions. Some of the judges might be editors, and they want to weed out writers who won’t do as they’re asked.
3. Choose your genre carefully. (See #6 above) Don’t expect the coordinator to read your submission and move it to the proper genre.
4. Check out the contest online first. There are several good places to check out contest scams, including:
https://www.wikihow.com/Avoid-Writing-Contest-Scams
http://writing-world.com/contests/scams.shtml
https://thewritelife.com/writing-contests/
5. Choose a contest associated with a conference you’re planning on attending. These are usually legitimate, and more likely to fit into your genre since you’re going there for a reason.
6. Choose a contest associated with a writing organization you’re already a member of. Same reasoning as #5.
7. Ask around for others’ experiences about contests they entered.
8. Consider the entry fee and whether it’s equitable for the potential win. A $15 entry fee with feedback for a $100 prize may sound high, but it’s a good deal for the feedback. A $45 entry fee where 10,000 authors entered last year is a good money-making effort with little chance of winning.
9. Consider where you are in your writing career. If you’re already published, contest opportunities are much fewer, and unless the contest is something really specific, such as Best of Arizona Military Fiction, you might be better off skipping it. If you’re pre-published, a win is a nice kudo in your bio and could attract an agent or an editor.

Whatever you decide about entering a contest or not, the real secret to success in writing is to keep reading. Keep writing. Look for ways to give back.
And if you win, invest the money back into your writing before you plan a vacation or a cruise or buy a new car. Unless, of course, your next book requires that kind of research (smile).

 

Schlachter DSCF1330_DonnaAbout Donna:
Donna lives in Denver with husband Patrick, her first-line editor and biggest fan. She writes historical suspense under her own name, and contemporary suspense under her alter ego of Leeann Betts. She is a hybrid author who has published a number of books under her pen name and under her own name. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Sisters In Crime; facilitates a local critique group, and teaches writing classes and courses. Donna is also a ghostwriter and editor of fiction and non-fiction, and judges in a number of writing contests. She loves history and research, and travels extensively for both. Donna is proud to be represented by Terrie Wolf of AKA Literary Management.

 

http://www.HiStoryThruTheAges.wordpress.com
http://www.HiStoryThruTheAges.com Receive a free ebook simply for signing up for our free newsletter!
Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/DonnaschlachterAuthor
Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/DonnaSchlachter
Other Books: Amazon: http://amzn.to/2ci5Xqq and Smashwords: http://bit.ly/2gZATjm

About A Train Ride to Heartbreak:

October 1895
Mary Johannson has scars on her body that can’t compare with the scars on her heart. She is alone in the world, with no family, no prospects, and no home.

John Stewart is at his wit’s end. His wife of three years died in childbirth, leaving him with a toddler and an infant, both girls. Theirs was the love of fairy tales, and while he has no illusions about finding another like her, his children need a mother.

Though separated by thousands of miles, they commit to a mail-order marriage. But on their journey to Heartbreak, they meet another and realize the life they’d planned would be a lie. Can they find their way back from the precipice and into the love of God and each other, or are they destined to keep their word and deny their heart?

Buy link: http://amzn.to/2Cur1I4

 

 

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Writer's Notes

Writers’ Contests Count

2020 PSWA First place fiction book, unpublished-FELONY MURDER RULE

By Thonie Hevron

PSWA-stickerEntering contests are a no-brainer for me. I can directly attribute my entry into the realm of traditional publishing (albeit a small press) to winning a contest. I’ll bet many authors could say the same.

In 2012, I entered my unpublished manuscript, working title Probable Cause, in the Public Safety Writers Contest (PSWA). I won third place in my category-unpublished novel. Now re-named, By Force or Fear, I soon self-published it on Smashwords as an eBook, in the hopes of getting enough money together to do a print version. Meanwhile, I worked on mapping out the second book of the Nick and Meredith Mysteries (I’m a compulsive plotter).

After months of writing, querying, submitting and all-around frustration, I entered my novel, in a contest at Oak Tree Publishing (OTP). Oak Tree had recently published an anthology for the PSWA, so I thought it would be worth a chance. I was stunned when I won. First prize was publication of the winning book. I’d entered my second Nick and Meredith Mystery, Intent to Hold. It had just won second place in unpublished novel category the PSWA’s 2014 Writers’ Contest. After a polishing up, my new publisher agreed to publish the first novel, now renamed By Force or Fear.

aklogo-web_origAs events progressed, both novels with Oak Tree Press went to press with the third, With Malice Aforethought, in contract. Sadly, Oak Tree’s production has fallen into limbo with the ongoing health issues of its publisher, Billie Johnson. Johnson offered many OTP authors their rights, so I took mine. The short version of this story is I now have another publisher, Aakenbaaken & Kent, with whom I’m very pleased. I’m currently working on another Nick and Meredith Mystery, working title, Felon with a Firearm. I’m hustling to get it finished for the next PSWA writing contest that opens in May.

East Texas Writers Guild Book Award 3rd place 2015I’m also looking into other places to submit my work for competition. In 2015, the East Texas Writers Guild awarded Malice third place in “Best First Chapter” category. There are many more contests in which to submit your work. Start with a Google search: I use “mystery contests.” It helps to search within your genre.

Contests count. They give the author credibility. Winning a contest means someone other than your mother likes your work. Agents and publishers look at winners differently. It’s a terrific marketing tactic to use, “Winner of the Agatha Award” on the book cover. But for me, it’s a wonderful confidence booster to win a writing contest. Winning motivates me to work harder for the next entry. It also helps me to set goals. Having a first draft by May 1st, the usual deadline for PSWA’s contest, is a typical goal. I’ll make Felon the fourth try to come in better than Malice’s second place in 2016.

This month, Romance author Donna Schlachter will weigh in on Do’s and Don’ts in Contests. J.L. Greger, author of several science-based mysteries asks, “Do You Feel Lucky?” February will end with thoughts from a prolific children’s author, Natasha Yim, the chair of the Redwood Writers Club (California Writers Club branch in Sonoma County) Contests. Posts are up every Friday at 6 A.M. on Just the Facts, Ma’am, Writer’s Notes.

Think about entering a contest. You can’t lose anything more than a few bucks–some are even free. A contest might jump-start flagging progress on your WIP, you could set and meet realistic goals, or even better yet, you could win!

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Writer's Notes

Newsflash: I have a new publisher!

By Force or Fear, Intent to Hold, and With Malice Aforethought

aklogo-web_orig

By Thonie Hevron

As some of you may know, in the fall of 2016, Billie Johnson of Oak Tree Publishing suffered a debilitating health issue. Subsequently, she offered book rights to her author stable. I took mine back and have self-published all three books in the intervening year, while searching for an agent and/or publisher. Not to many takers for books already published.

3 book covers

But today, I signed a book contract for the Nick and Meredith stories with Aakenbaaken & Kent publishing house of Valdosta, Georgia. Publisher Mike Orenduff is providing all the imperatives for this author. He will be responsible for the formatting and cover of all books. He’ll publish my three previous books plus the new one, Felon with a Firearm, and all will be in the Ingram catalog. Being listed in this catalog is huge. Most bookstores won’t take books on consignment but Ingram guarantees return of any leftover books. This frees up bookseller inventory and making this (and any Ingram) author more attractive.

My first A&K book won’t be out until late spring or early summer. In the meantime, you can still order all three books on Amazon as usual. They will be replaced as A&K gets to them, estimated to be in four month increments.

For now, I’m writing Felon with a Firearm feverishly!

Stay tuned for more news as it breaks!

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Writer's Notes

Conferences: Considering a Conference?

2018-Redwood-Writers-Pen-to-Published-LogoX500_JBBy Catharine Bramkamp

January 26, 2018

When my boys were about seven, I thought it was time to take them to the Nutcracker. I had two choices: an hour’s commute to San Francisco for the ultimate Nutcracker experience at SF Ballet. Or a five-minute drive to a local performance.

Since I had no idea what the experience would be like, I opted for the local performance. If they loved it, we’d plan a trip to the city next year.

They did not love it.

Conference mythology promotes the idea that big or small, you will love the conference. You will love it in a box, you will love it with a fox, you will love it here or there.

But you may not love it there.

Which is a good reason to attend a conference, right here.

Writing conferences big and small are great. Most are focused on craft, promotion and marketing. You will meet agents and publishers, learn about social media, promotion and the publishing industry. You will also hear famous authors describe their books and how lucky they were to find an agent and have their book the focus of a publisher bidding war. Conferences give you the opportunity for chance encounters. And they offer a wealth of information that can be inspiring and lead you and your work in a new direction.

Larger conferences like the San Francisco Writer’s Conference or San Miguel Writer’s Conference are attractive and prestigious.  A larger conference attracts larger names and popular authors. Because you need to travel and spend the night there, the whole enterprise is surrounded by romance.  Who wouldn’t want to travel to San Francisco? Who wouldn’t want to rub shoulders with Wally Lamb?

But large conferences have their risks. Big conferences require investing big money – a thousand dollars or more.  Because of that investment, many conference attendees focus on wringing the maximum value for their money. And because authors often arrive with specific agendas, the atmosphere can get a little tense.

Walk into a smaller conference and you will find that the conference organizers are really happy to see you. You are not just a face in a crowd, you are a valued participant. Remember, if there is no one in the audience, the session speaker will feel like a failure and worse may not agree to return to this particular tiny conference regardless of the generous $99 honorarium (oh, and free lunch, often the speakers get lunch). Your presence is critical. You are important.

Like a larger conference, a smaller conference will be populated with influencers and helpful people. Unlike a larger conference, in a smaller venue, it’s easier to meet these people with more opportunities to chat.  You will meet authors like yourself who are interested in the same genres or marketing programs. These connections are sometimes the best ones you will make in your career. That fellow writer in the hard folding chair next to you may not become your new best friend, but she can become someone to exchange writing woes and tips with. She may become famous. You may become famous. You will both be able to say, “We are old friends.” That’s the networking part. That’s a powerful thing.

A smaller conference offers more comfortable and casual access to the speakers. You may sit next to the key note speaker at lunch. You may run into your session leader in the restroom (but do not shove your manuscript under the stall – true story).

You can talk with relatively famous authors and get the real scoop on their success as well as their lifestyle. A small conference offers the opportunity to get close and personal.

I love both. Larger conferences are big, glittering and exciting. I have lectured here and there. But the epiphany happened at the Sierra Writer’s Conference. The valuable friendship began over lunch at small conference in Oakland. My book series was published by a local company I met at the Redwood Writer’s Conference.

Ready to start your first conference?

Here are a few ideas starting with SF Writers Conference in San Francisco and working up 101 through a handful of smaller conferences.

 

San Francisco –https://sfwriters.org/

 

Marin – http://www.bookpassage.com/conferences

 

Sonoma County – http://redwoodwriters.org/2018-conference/

 

Mendocino county – http://mcwc.org

 

Sierra Foothills – http://www.sierrawritersconference.com/

 

Full disclosure: Catharine Bramkamp is the Conference Chair of the upcoming Pen to Published Writers Conference April 21, 2018. If you attend, you will meet her.

Because it’s small.

C Bramkamp author pic

Catharine Bramkamp  Chief Storytelling Officer
Mobile: 707 478 1855 Email: cbramkamp@gmail.com Website: www.YourBookStartsHere.com Website: www.NevadaCitySocialMedia.com

 

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Writer's Notes

Conferences: Writers Conference Confidential! Gil Mansergh

 

by Gil Mansergh

G Mansergh Pettingill coverBefore you sign up for a writer’s conference, there are a few “trade secrets” that conference organizers don’t want you to know. I directed the prestigious California Writers Club Writers Conference at Asilomar for five years, and have been on the faculty of conferences in San Francisco, LA, Fresno, Marin, Stanford University and Santa Rosa, but I never signed a non-disclosure agreement—so here is the nitty gritty.

First off, a writer’s conference can change your life. I went to my first conference as a “Program Consultant” for nonprofit agencies, and left that same weekend as a “Writer.” This resulted in over three decades working as a syndicated newspaper columnist, a writer for hire (over 70 books and counting), a novelist, and the host/producer of the NPR radio show, Word By Word: Conversations With Writers.

But (and this is a very important but), I am the exception. 95% of conference attendees never become professional writers. They may, after dozens of rejections, self-publish their own book(s) or have some pieces appear in literary journals, but earning mega-bucks from having a best-seller remains as elusive as having Publishers Clearinghouse arrive at your door with a big check.

Writers conferences are, first and foremost, business ventures based on selling wannabe writers a dream. I was (and still am) part of this marketing scheme. I made sure that every conference I directed included the all-important, money-maker, Agents and Editors—numerous opportunities (including manuscript critiques, Q&A panels, and pitch sessions) for attendees to interact with professionals who (ostensibly) hold the keys to success. I also included “name brand” keynoters (Pulitzer Prize winners, NY Times Bestsellers, Disney Writer/Directors, etc.) for advertising and publicity purposes and offered practical, hands-on workshops in diverse genres (presented by teachers I had personally seen in action). As an added bonus, we had entertainment: comedians, singers, dancers, musicians, and a California Park Ranger portraying Jack London. And free wine—great Sonoma County wines were served from vineyards eager to have their product appreciated by “influential” writers. The trick is to have the pouring staff keep full bottles behind the table, and place only empty bottles on display.

Despite all this careful planning, it turned out the most important part of the weekend was something I did not control. Since the conference grounds at Asilomar State Park in Pacific Grove include meals with the cost of the rooms, everyone (attendees and faculty alike) ate breakfast, lunch and dinner together around large circular tables. Voila! Instant opportunities to interact with other writers.

I shared this phenomenon in a piece for Writers Digest Magazine I called “The Nudist and Lana Turner’s Shoes.” Named after information two other conference attendees shared about themselves, I wrote the following:
“The secret for getting the most out of a writer’s conference is simple. You don’t have to study and annotate the conference schedule or take notes at the workshops and think up insightful questions for the panelists. All you have to do is go to meals and ask the people on either side of you ‘What do you write?’ You’ll quickly learn that writers are interesting people with fascinating stories to tell. What’s more, they will freely share their successes and failures with fellow writers.”

I went on to describe some of the writers I talked with: the kayaking wine expert who reviews computer hardware for MacWorld, the travel writer recently returned from Western Australia, the woman in the lunch line who commented how it reminded her of waiting for a crust of bread in a Ugandan prison camp, the nurse who crusades against female circumcision, the mystery novelist who tries out her new characters in short stories, and, of course, the naturist fireman writing about his photo safari to Africa, and the woman searching for someone to write about her make-up artist husband’s collection of movie stars’ shoes and clothing.

What I wrote all those years ago still holds today: “When you go to a writer’s conference, you can learn at least as much from your fellow writers as you will from the formal program.”

~~~

Gil Mansergh

Author Bio:
Gilbert Mansergh is the psychological educator internationally acclaimed for utilizing Hollywood movie clips as teaching tools. Author of over sixty non-fiction books, two syndicated film columns, and movie blog, Gil is also the producer/host of the Word By Word: Conversations With Writers radio show on Sonoma County’s NPR station, KRCB-FM. Gil’s first novel, The Marvelous Journals of Miss Virginia Pettingill is fictionalized from true stories told by his mother about her childhood in Gloucester, Massachusetts after WW1, and has received glowing reviews from critics and readers.

Amazon Buy link: The Marvelous Journals of Miss Virginia Pettingill

 

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Writer's Notes

Conferences: The Pros and Cons by Michael A. Black

By Michael A. Black

mike Black BloodTrails coverAs we begin this new year it’s totally appropriate that we take a look at the conference scene and ask that pertinent question: How do I get the most bang for my buck?
How do I choose a good conference? Where are the best locations? Should I choose genre over craft, a fan-based conference vs. one with a lot of authors? What should I expect out of the experience? How about the cost?

All of those are legitimate questions, but they’re fairly easy to answer. First, do a bit of research on any prospective conferences and figure out which ones are best suited to meeting your goals. Cost is always a factor, as is location. Is the conference in an interesting place that’s easy to get to? My advice is pick one that’s in a neat place, and tack on a few days to do some sightseeing. While you’re looking into it, check out the costs of travel and hotel rooms.

Genre based vs. craft based… If you’re interested in improving your knowledge and writing skills, check out what the conference program has listed. If you’re only going to collect autographs from your favorite writers, then learning something is obviously secondary. And, if you’re a writer, pick the appropriate type of conference. Don’t go to a sci-fi con if your main interest is writing romance. Pick your genre and check out what each has to offer. I can tell you right now that my main interest is the mystery/thriller genre, but I’ve gone to a few sci-fi cons and they’re a lot of fun (Imagine people walking around in costumes and discussing things not of this world.) Mystery/thriller conferences are usually less intimidating, and very friendly. Some of the nicest people go to them. It’s not uncommon to meet a bestselling author in the bar, for instance.

You should examine what you want to accomplish. The opportunities to network are very good at most conferences, but keep in mind, the bigger they are, the more you’ll feel like a small fish in a big pond. Bouchercon, the international mystery writer’s conference is held in a different city each year, and it’s pretty overwhelming, especially your first time. I wouldn’t recommend Bouchercon unless you’re only interested in getting a book signed. Even if you’re a published author, your chances of being on a panel or getting a signing opportunity at a conference that large are questionable. Smaller conferences are usually better for meet in people and making connections.
If you’re looking to learn, and what writer isn’t, check out the conference program. Usually, they’re made up of various panels on different topics, and feature some individual speakers. My high school physics teacher used to say that one hour across the table from a wise man is worth ten years study of books. See who’s attending the conference and be they writer or expert in a certain field, let that information be part of your decision making.

Okay, I think I’ve covered the basics, so let me use what time I have left to push my favorite conference, the Public Safety Writers Association Conference. It’s held each summer in Las Vegas, Nevada and is without a doubt the most writer-friendly conference I’ve ever attended. This year’s dates are July 12-15, at the Orleans Hotel.
I know what you’re thinking… Vegas in the summer? Sure, it’s hot, but it’s the desert. You’ll be inside the luxurious hotel in the air-conditioning during the day, and at night it cools down to a comfortable level. The Orleans is not on the Strip, so the rates are incredibly reasonable ($45.00 a night weekdays and $94.00 Friday and Saturday) and there’s a shuttle bus that’ll take you over to the main drag, if that’s where you want to go. Did I mention that the Orleans contains numerous restaurants, and food court, several movie theaters, a bowling alley, and lots of slot machines? You don’t even have to outdoors if you don’t want to.

But enough about that. Take it from me, it’s great.

The conference itself is designed for writers of all levels and abilities. Some of our PSWA members are published authors with impressive resumes. Others are first timers, and others are aspiring to be published. Regardless of your level, you’ll find everyone friendly and always willing to offer advice and assistance. We usually have numerous publishers on hand to listen to pitches, too.

While you don’t need a background in public safety to join the PSWA, many of our members are former police, federal agents, ex-military, or firefighters. Others are people who write about those things. The conference offers the opportunity to rub elbows with those who’ve actually done the stuff of books and movies and others who’ve successfully written about it. It’s a wealth of information, and everyone is very approachable.
The luncheon meals are included in the conference fee, which is real low compared with other conference of this type. And we have an old-time radio play that aspiring actors and actresses can participate in, if you so desire. There’s also an intensive writer’s workshop the first day you can sign up for that features three published writers giving you individual critiques and writing advice.

So what are you waiting for? Visit the PSWA website today (http://policewriter.com/wordpress) and check things out. Registration is easy and the price is right. Hope to see you there.
https://policewriter.com/wordpress/2018-pswa-conference-registration/
~~~
Mike Black Book Jac PhotoMichael A. Black is the author of 29 books, the majority of which are in the mystery and thriller genres, although he has written in sci-fi, western, horror, and sports genres as well. A retired police officer with over 30 years’ experience, he has done everything from patrol to investigating homicides to conducting numerous SWAT operations. Black was awarded the Cook County Medal of Merit in 2010. He is also the author of over 100 short stories and articles, and has written two novels with television star, Richard Belzer (Law & Order SVU). Black is currently writing the Executioner series (Fatal Prescription, Missile Intercept) under the name Don Pendleton. His latest novel under his own name is Blood Trails.

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Writer's Notes

Conferences: Choosing A Writers Conference by Nancy J. Cohen

FacialsCanBeFatalFront2.jpgBy Nancy J. Cohen

How do you decide which writers’ conference to attend? It depends upon your purpose. If you intend to schmooze with fellow writers, attend workshops on craft or marketing, and soak up the wisdom of more seasoned authors, a conference geared toward writing is the one for you.

The next question to ask yourself is what genre do you write? Would you prefer genre-specific topics or are you such a beginner that it doesn’t matter at this stage? Or perhaps you wish to broaden your opportunities and meet other writers for cross-promotion purposes.

In Florida, we have the Florida Writers Association annual conference that’s for all genres. Here you’ll have a wide range of topics from craft to marketing to more specifics like staging fight scenes. Or you can attend SleuthFest sponsored by the Florida Chapter of Mystery Writers of America. This three-day event focuses on mystery writing, although craft and marketing topics can apply to any genre. There’s a forensics track where you can increase your knowledge of crime writing details.

Or you can sail away on a biannual Fun-in-the-Sun cruise conference with Florida Romance Writers. Again, workshops appeal to any fiction writer while some may be specific to romance.

At the national level, Romance Writers of America (https://www.rwa.org/) holds an annual conference with so many amazing workshops it’ll blow your mind. This one rotates locations every year. Even if you don’t write romance, it’s worth the investment to go. The range of workshop topics and opportunities to meet publishing industry professionals can’t be beat.

Mystery Writers of America holds an annual seminar in New York. If you’re looking for a tax-deductible reason to visit the Big City, try this one or the bigger Thrillerfest. There’s Killer Nashville for mystery writers, as well as Left Coast Crime and Bouchercon.

Are you seeking an editor or agent appointment? For sure you’ll want a writers’ conference that offers this opportunity. Some of them also have paid manuscript critiques or writing contests if you’re looking for feedback on your work.

If you’re a published author with at least two novels under your belt, consider attending the Novelists Inc. annual conference. It’s a fantastic event for published authors focusing solely on the business of writing. Many industry professionals also attend this highly valued conference, but it’s not a place for getting an agent, promoting your book, or meeting fans.

There are many more offerings from other writers groups, so check your libraries and writing organizations for additional events.

On the other hand, perhaps you would rather meet fans and grow your mailing list (which you should be doing at any conference you attend). The RT Book Reviews annual conference offers many fan-oriented opportunities. So does Malice Domestic for cozy mystery writers. Look for conferences or group events that invite readers to participate.

Budget is always a consideration. The more meals offered, the more expensive the conference will be. Some of the registration fees can be pretty steep. Others are more budget-friendly but come with few perks. Choose wisely.

Here’s a summary of what to consider:

  1. Do you prefer a writer’s conference or a fan-oriented event?
  2. Do you want an editor/agent appointment?
  3. Are you a finalist in a contest where winners are announced at the conference?
  4. Do you want genre-specific topics or more broad workshops?
  5. Are you a published author going to learn more about marketing or to meet readers?
  6. What is your goal for attending a conference?
  7. How much money can you spend on conference registration, hotel, transportation, and meals? Don’t forget swag or printed promo materials to bring along.

If you mean to accomplish your objectives, conference prep is just as important as choosing which ones to attend.  Click Here for a checklist on what to bring. Once you’re there, relax and have a good time. Networking and making new friends should be your prime goals.

 

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PubPinkNancy J. Cohen writes the Bad Hair Day Mysteries featuring South Florida hairstylist Marla Vail. Titles in this series have made the IMBA bestseller list, been selected by Suspense Magazine as best cozy mystery, won a Readers’ Favorite gold medal, and earned third place in the Arizona Literary Awards. Nancy has also written the instructional guide, Writing the Cozy Mystery. Her imaginative romances have proven popular with fans as well. Her first book in this genre won the HOLT Medallion Award. A featured speaker at libraries, conferences, and community events, she is listed in Contemporary Authors, Poets & Writers, and Who’s Who in U.S. Writers, Editors, & Poets. When not busy writing, Nancy enjoys fine dining, cruising, visiting Disney World, and shopping. Follow her here:

 

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Categories
Writer's Notes

Conferences: An Overview by Michele Drier

By Michele Drier

M Drier ASHES_cover_eBook_final-1I’m not even sure when I first attended a conference. It was probably better than forty years ago. It was a conference on Women’s Rights (I’d been appointed to the Attorney General’s Commission on Women’s Rights by my state senator) and the guest speakers were Delores Huerta and Jane Fonda.

Funnily enough, even with that lineup, it’s an issue that’s still headline-making today.

Since then I’ve attended conferences, been a panel moderator and panelist, convened state-wide panels and put on conferences in the areas of the arts, affordable housing and homelessness, and recognizing and preventing elder abuse.

And in the last six years, since I published my first book, conferences on mystery reading and writing.

Though the underlying topics differ, the basic format stays similar. Headliners speak, or are interviewed, awards are given, experts speak on issues, and most, important, attendees mix, mingle and meet people.

Hands-down, authors are the kindest, most open people I’ve met in years of conference-going. They’ll take the time to talk to a fan, or an aspiring author, in the stairwell, the restrooms, the bar, the elevators.

Beyond the “names,” conferences are a great place to meet people, make friends and that over-used word, “network.” As an attendee you’ll talk to people just like you who are looking for an agent, trying to figure out marketing, discover good software to use for plotting, weigh the pro and cons of traditional vs. indie publishing.  There’s a wealth of information and help available for up to four days in one place, and it’s yours to take advantage of. Read the panel descriptions, look up the panelist’s bios, attend the publisher-sponsored hospitality events.

 

M Drier toronto panel
Bouchercon 2017 in Toronto-panel

 

To keep down the cost, consider sharing a room with someone—even someone you don’t know! I shared a room a few years ago at Malice with Polly Iyer, a writer I only knew through the online Sisters in Crime group, the Guppies.  What a delight! Witty, wry, a dynamite writer and now a good friend. The only drawback is that we live about 3,000 miles from one another. And in October, at Bouchercon 2017 in Toronto, I shared a room with Mo Walsh, the president of the New England chapter of MWA.

 

Writer’s conferences range from one-day, small (Capitol Crimes, my local Sisters in Crime chapter does a single-day workshop bi-annually that attracts about 90 writers) to large, four-day affairs (Bouchercon 2016 in New Orleans had 2,000 attendees).

Attending conferences for me pays double duty. I was the president of the Sisters in Crime Guppy chapter for two years and “knew” about 650 people scattered across the country (and in Europe). Thanks to some conferences, I’ve met many of them, including Sheila Connolly, whose adventures in owning an Irish cottage I’ve been following.

If you’re overwhelmed by large crowds, pick a small one first. California Crime Writers in L.A., (in Southern California, bi-annual, limit of 200 attendee); Public Safety Writers, annual, Las Vegas; Malice Domestic in Bethesda, MD (they’ve been keeping it to about 500); Killer Nashville. On the Right Coast is New England Crimebake, that they keep to 250.

Even Left Coast Crime, at about 800 registrants, is edging up. Then the large ones: Bouchercon at about 1,500 and Thrillerfest…I don’t even know.

But don’t be put off, there’s a lot of information out there and hundreds of compatriots who now look like old hands. But they, too, made that first step and registered for a conference.

There are hundreds of them all across the county, not to mention CrimeFest in Bristol, England and Bloody Scotland. Oh, I’d love to do those!

Full disclosure: I’m the co-chair for Boucheron 2020 in Sacramento, I’ll be at Left Coast Crime in Reno in March, 2018 and, because I also write paranormal romance, at the Romance Writers’ of America conference in May 2018. Whew.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

January 2018 will feature four more posts about conferences-large and small. Narrowed your conference $$ down? Leave a comment, let us know!
—Thonie

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 Michelle DrierMichele Drier was born in Santa Cruz and is a fifth generation Californian. During her career in journalism—as a reporter and editor at daily newspapers—she won awards for producing investigative series.

She is the president of Capitol Crimes, the Sacramento chapter of Sisters in Crime, and the co-chair of Bouchercon 2020.

Her Amy Hobbes Newspaper Mysteries are Edited for Death, (called “Riveting and much recommended” by the Midwest Book Review), Labeled for Death and Delta for Death, and a stand-alone thriller, Ashes of Memories, published in 2017.

Her paranormal romance series, The Kandesky Vampire Chronicles, has consistently won awards and was the best paranormal vampire series of 2014 from the Paranormal Romance Guild. The series is SNAP: The World Unfolds, SNAP: New Talent, Plague: A Love Story, Danube: A Tale of Murder, SNAP: Love for Blood, SNAP: Happily Ever After?, SNAP: White Nights,  SNAP: All That Jazz, and SNAP: I, Vampire.

 

Visit her facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/AuthorMicheleDrier, her website www.micheledrier.com or her Amazon author page, http://www.amazon.com/Michele-Drier/e/B005D2YC8G/

 

 

Categories
Writer's Notes

Conferences: Choosing the Right Conference for You by Donna Schlachter

By Donna Schlachter

Mystery of Christmas Inn coverAs writers, we spend many hours in solitude, pecking away at the keyboard, looking up information on the Internet, or researching at the library. Conference season gives us the chance to come out of the office and get with like-minded writers.

Depending on where you live, how much time you have available, and how much money you can invest, there are many conference choices available. Finding a conference is never the problem—choosing which one or two or three to attend is.

Here is a checklist to consider as you read conference websites, newsletters, and brochures

 

  1. Where is the conference being held, and have I always wanted to go there? If you can tie the travel to the conference in with your current work-in-process or perhaps the next planned novel, that is even better.
  2. Is the keynote speaker someone I’ve always wanted to hear? If so, perhaps this conference is for you. Research author credibility, publishing history, genre, and personality if you don’t recognize the keynote speaker.
  3. What do I expect to learn from the workshops? Repeating the same workshops conference after conference won’t be the best use of your investment. Don’t automatically sign up for workshops because they fit your genre—consider sitting in on some classes that you wouldn’t normally choose. At one conference, I went to a class on writing horror and discovered some really spooky traits to add to my antagonists even though I write suspense.
  4. What else can I accomplish while I’m there? Perhaps there is an afternoon of workshops that you aren’t particularly interested in. Use the time to visit museums or attractions that work into your novel. Plan to arrive early or stay after if you absolutely must attend every class.
  5. Does the conference include sessions where I will write or do homework? If so, this is probably a good choice. Imagine: a writers conference where you actually write.
  6. Does the conference have a track that corresponds with my genre, and if not, is there something else I want to learn besides craft at this conference?

 

Suppose you have two conferences but can only afford to go to one. How to choose without making money the only deciding factor?

  1. Mark every class at both conferences and see which one offers you the most opportunities to learn.
  2. Does one conference offer their sessions on CD or DVD while the other doesn’t? If so, perhaps attend the one and buy the CD’s of the other.
  3. Have you attended one of the conferences several times? Sure, it’s nice to renew old friendships, but perhaps this is the year to step out and make new friends.
  4. Are you looking for an agent or a publisher? Which conference offers your more opportunities to make that connection?

 

No matter which conference(s) you attend this year, be sure to have fun, talk to people you don’t know, take lots of notes, and come home recommitted to finishing your project and moving on to the next one. Never get so busy going to conferences that you don’t have time to write.

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Getting some great ideas about your next conference? Have you narrowed them down? Leave a comment, let us know!
—Thonie

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mystery of Christmas Inn coverAbout The Mystery of Christmas Inn, Colorado:

Matthew returns to Christmas Inn to celebrate his fortieth anniversary alone, intending to take his own life so he can join his beloved Sarah, who passed on to glory the previous January. Not certain how—or if—he will go on without her, Matthew learns on his arrival that the old inn will close its doors on New Year’s Eve. A developer has purchased the building and intends to tear it down and put up a chain hotel. Determined to keep his memories and his connection to Sarah alive, Matthew embarks on a harebrained scheme to keep the inn open.

Edith Cochrane, a widow, comes to Christmas Inn because she has nowhere else to spend the holidays. Her children are angry with her because she refuses to choose to live with one of them. Edith and her husband enjoyed a long marriage and a long mission-field ministry, but ever since his passing the previous year, Edith has found herself at loose ends. She comes to Christmas Inn to spend some time thinking about her options.

~~

Christmas under the stars coverAbout Christmas Under the Stars:

November 1858, Utah Territory

Edie Meredith strives to keep her temper and her tongue under control as she heads west with her brother to California. Raised in an itinerant preacher family, she promises she will never marry a man of the cloth.

Tom Aiken, drover of the wagon train, longs to answer his true calling: to preach, and while he realizes not every woman would choose a preacher for a husband, he hopes to soon find his help-meet.

Suspicious ‘accidents’ plague their journey. Is someone trying to keep them from reaching their destination? Or will misunderstanding and circumstances keep them apart?

~~

 

Schlachter DSCF1330_Donna
Donna Schlachter

About Donna:

 

Donna lives in Denver with husband Patrick, her first-line editor and biggest fan. She writes historical suspense under her own name, and contemporary suspense under her alter ego of Leeann Betts. She is a hybrid publisher who has published a number of books under her pen name and under her own name. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Sisters in Crime; facilitates a local critique group, and teaches writing classes and courses. Donna is also a ghostwriter and editor of fiction and non-fiction, and judges in a number of writing contests. She loves history and research, and travels extensively for both. Donna is proud to be represented by Terrie Wolf of AKA Literary Management.

 

 

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