All posts tagged RWA Conference 2014

Event Announcements

Do you have an event or workshop you’d like to share? Email your event news to cruisin@romanceaustralia.com

Claytons Conference 2014

We’re looking for a team to run the 2014 Claytons Conference (the digital conference that runs on the same weekend as the face-to-face conference for those who can’t attend Sydney). There are various positions to be filled but the primary one is the Claytons Coordinator who will lead a small team of committee volunteers to do specific tasks each. Organisation begins around May/June and the event happens August 9/10. Therefore this role is steady for about 10 weeks of the year only. Claytons is a valuable and enjoyable annual RWA event but we need people to make it happen. It’s a great way to make some new friends and industry contacts while having lots of fun. If you would like to find out more about any of the roles, please email volunteers@romanceaustralia.com or contact me (Events Liaison) at alli_sinclair@yahoo.com

RWA Conference 2014 – Romance Rocks!rwa14logoedit-light-300

Professional Development Day Speakers

  • Jim Azevedo, Smashwords
  • Marie Force, Author
  • Jennifer St. George, Author
  • Helene Young, Author
  • Sarah Wendell, Author, Reviewer, Blogger
  • Julian Hewitt, Media Arts Lawyers
  • Susan Donovan, Corporate Facilitator
  • Maya Hall, Maya Hall Pty Ltd (Accountant)
  • Gemma Ruddick, Personal Trainer

Workshop Presenters – please click here

Conference MC – Amy Andrews

Award Dinner MC – Kaz Delaney

Express Year of the NovelAnnaCampbell_Rake

Make 2014 the year you finish your novel in Express Year of the Novel! Over six masterclasses, you will explore the elements of novel writing, including character and setting, theme, voice and narrative structure. With the support and feedback of your peers and acclaimed author, Anna Campbell, you’ll be equipped with the tools to complete the first draft of your manuscript by December.

Anna Campbell’s award-winning historical romances are published internationally, including in Australia and North America. For the last four years, the Australian Romance Readers Association have voted Anna favourite romance writer. Her latest release is A RAKES’ MIDNIGHT KISS (HarperCollins). Web: www.annacampbell.info

Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me!

When: Monday July 7, 6.30-7.30pm
Where: Tea Tree Gully Library, 571 Montague Road, Modbury SA

FMI and Bookings: 08 83977333

The first day of our Readers Festival will feature a special author panel at 6.30pm on Monday July 7. Come see authors Carla Caruso, Eleni Konstantine, Maggie Mundy, Heather Taylor Johnson and guest MC Bronwyn Stuart as they talk about writing in the romance genre with a South Aussie flavour.

Romancing the Pagebeing_jade_COVER_HI_res small

Contrary to popular belief, a good romance is not as simple as falling in love. Writing good quality romance requires creativity, innovation, skill and well-formed characters embroiled in believable conflict.
Explore the diversity of the genre, get tips on convincing emotional connection and sex scenes, discover what readers and publishers want, develop a winning story synopsis and killer pitch, and learn about the earning opportunities the romance genre offers.
For beginners, early & emerging writers.

When: Saturdays 6, 13, 30 and 27 September, 10am–1pm
Where: Writers Victoria, 176 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne
Tutor: Kate Belle (author The Yearning & Being Jade)

For more information and bookings: http://writersvictoria.org.au/what-s-on/event/romancing-the-page/

Online Events

RWA is looking to offer our members a series of online writers’ workshops in the second half of 2014 through its new Online Workshop List (OWL). OWL events will be hosted, facilitated and promoted by RWA on a 75:25 profit-share arrangement with the presenter (the greater amount being the presenter’s). We would like to invite interested RWA members and non-RWA members to apply to conduct a workshop online through RWA in the inaugural OWL calendar. Please download the proposal form http://www.romanceaustralia.com/p/89/OWLs, complete by May 1 2014 and email to owl@romanceaustralia.com

Classes are run from Margie Lawson’s website using on-line teaching software used by universities. Take a cyber tour before you start your class and introduce yourself.

Affordable forum-style writing classes

A double Golden Heart finalist in 2006, Julie Rowe has been writing for over ten years. Julie  teaches a variety of workshops and is the moderator of the Announce Online Classes email loop, which promotes online classes for writers. To subscribe to the Announce online Classes email loop, send an email to: Announceonlinewritingclasses-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Writers Festivals 2014

The Mildura Writers’ Festival brings together some of Australia’s best writers in an intimate, winter program of workshops, lectures and discussion forums.

When: July 17–20

Early Bird Tickets for Byron Bay Writers Festival are on sale. Workshops commencing on 28 July. The Early Bird tickets are only on sale until the full program is announced on 6 June, so now is the time to pick up a discounted Festival pass. For more Festival information or to purchase Early Bird tickets visit byronbaywritersfestival.com.au or call 1300 368 552.

When: August 1–3

Melbourne Writers Festival (MWF) is Melbourne’s annual, two-week celebration for writers, readers and thinkers. Each year in August, the Festival celebrates the talent and ideas of hundreds of writers from Australia and around the world, through a vibrant program of storytelling, conversation and discussion, intellectual debate, educational programs, live performance, music and art events. The Festival includes events for people of all ages and more than a quarter of the program is free. Their highly regarded Schools’ Program attracts more than 15,000 students.

When: August 21–31

Details to be provided as soon as they become available.

When: September 3–7

Visible Ink

Visible Ink is accepting submissions of short stories, non-fiction, poetry and visual art for its 26th annual anthology. This year’s theme is ‘Encounters’. Entry $6. Published work receives payment. Submissions close 6 July. Visit visibleinkanthology.com/submissions for more info.

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by Juanita Kees on July 6, 2014  •  Permalink
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Posted by Juanita Kees on July 6, 2014

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Romance Rocks Presents…

2014website-banner-with-sponsor-logo

On Saturday 9th August on Track C, Session 1, Egyptologist and author, Catherine Campbell will teach delegates to ‘walk like an Egyptian’ in her workshop Romancing the Nile.

Romancing the NileBook 1 Eternity's Child Embossed 2 Resized 20

You don’t have to be writing Historical Romance to have a touch of Egyptian Romance, Magic or Mystique in your books. Egyptologist and Author Cathy Campbell will show you how to research and be inspired by all things Egyptian no matter what genre you’re writing. In this workshop you will learn how to distinguish fact from fantasy when doing research into Ancient Egypt, create an authentic Egyptian setting and workshop an Egyptian inspired story.

Participants will learn:
1. How to research ancient Egypt effectively and quickly
2. An overview of the key interesting elements of Egyptian history and culture that you need to know to build an authentic background for your story
3. The top myths about ancient Egypt that aren’t true
4. Workshop exploring Egyptian inspired story ideas

Your Presenter – Catherine Campbell (B ED Lib; MIS; MITMgt; MA Egypt)Book 2 Hathor's Daughter Embossed Resized 20

Adjunct Lecturer, Egyptologist and author of erotic (ancient historical) romance.

Egyptologist, Adjunct Lecturer, Tour Leader, Consultant and Author, Cathy Campbell, has an MA in Egyptology, has been an Adjunct Lecturer at Macquarie University for over ten years, regularly takes tours to Egypt for Academy Travel (or did until the revolution) and writes historical erotic romance, contemporary romance, romantic fantasy, romantic suspense and historical romance. Most of her stories feature some aspect of Ancient or Modern Egypt. http://www.catherineccampbell.com

Have you presented sessions at previous conferences, for RWA or other organisations?

I have an MA in Egyptology and have been an Adjunct lecturer for over ten years at Macquarie University and a Tour leader for Academy Travel since 2005. I have also presented workshops on Egypt for Kuringai College of Art and Sydney University Adult Education Program.

What prompted you to put together this workshop for “Romance Rocks”?Book 3 Children of the Nile Embossed Resized 20

It was an impulse really. I was musing on the fact that while people generally love Egypt and all things Egyptian: think of Tutankhamun, Cleopatra, the Scorpion King and Isis – very few people write about Egypt effectively as a setting or use Egyptian material well in fiction stories. Personally I’m really inspired by Ancient Egypt and most of my stories have something Egyptian in them. There is a lot of myth and fantasy out there masquerading as fact about Ancient Egypt. But there is a huge amount of authentic material available to inspire stories across all genres. I thought it would be fun to share some this with others and get them excited about the romance of Egypt.

What will participants take away from this session?

I want participants to come away with both the kernel of an Egyptian inspired story and enough knowledge to be able to research and build the background effectively for the story. I’d like to encourage authentic research and debunk the most popular myths in favour of some of the gems of real historical truth. That doesn’t mean I’m against the use of New Age Egyptian Mythology if a story calls for it, but I’d encourage writers to know the difference between the two.

Will there be hands-on exercises or audience participation?

Yes, I’ll talk a bit, share some content and materials, but I want the participants to workshop story ideas in this session. I want them to leave all fired up by a story idea with an Egyptian element.

Which members will benefit most from this session?

Anyone who wants to know more about Egypt and or wants to workshop a story idea.

What is your latest/current/upcoming book release and where can members find out more about you?

I’m currently working on a series of sexy romances set in an Egyptian Lotus House, during the Pyramid Age.

 

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by Juanita Kees on June 18, 2014  •  Permalink
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Posted by Juanita Kees on June 18, 2014

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Romance Rocks Presents…

2014website-banner-with-sponsor-logo

Things get a little hairy (in a good way!) on Sunday when Cate Ellink, Ainslie Paton and Kylie Griffin Skin the Cat on Track E, Session 5.

Skin the Cat – there’s more than one way to get published

You’ve heard of Save the Cat—a storytelling bible—well this is Skin the Cat, a meditation on some of the different ways to get published in the digital era. Three recently published authors (published by self-publishing, electronic and print) will discuss their paths to publication, the time they took, how they continued to learn and write despite setbacks, and what they wished they knew or understood better before being published. There will be lots of time to ask questions. We’re looking for an open, honest chat to help you with your journey.

Your Presenters – Cate Ellink, Ainslie Paton and Kylie Griffin

Three authors with different paths to publication and different careers.

What will participants take away from this session?
After this workshop, you will have a better understanding of:

  • what you may need to learn (craft-wise) to reach a publishable standard
  • what you should learn about the business before being published
  • how you can style your writing career. You can use methods such as, traditionally published (ie with a publisher in print or e), self published,or hybrid publishing. You can use different writing forms like short stories, novellas, novels, part of an anthology, stand alone story, series.
  • what others have learned along the way
  • how to know when your story is ‘ready to submit’ or ‘ready to publish’
  • some pitfalls you may encounter.

Will there be hands-on exercises or audience participation?
We want the session to be interactive. We’ll talk about our journey, then we’re open to all sorts of questions.

Do you use examples (from your own books, other books, movies etc)?
We’ll give examples from our lives, and if relevant from our books.

Which members will benefit most from this session?
Unpublished authors and ‘almost-published’ authors (ie those finalling in contests or being requested for full submissions, but who haven’t yet got a contract) will benefit most from the session. If you’ve ever felt like the path to publication was too long and you want to give up – come along!

Any advice for conference first-timers?
You only get out what you put in.

Hearts Talk, August 2013, page 12 – had a page of tips. Have a look on the webpage for that. Kylie and Cath contributed to that.

Kylie Griffin’s blog had conference first-timer tips and hints. Have a search for Memorable Moments, and you’ll find more like this one: http://kyliegriffinromance.blogspot.com.au/2012/08/conference-time-memorable-moments_21.html

What is your latest/current/upcoming book release and where can members find out more about you?

The Virginity Mission, Escape Publishing
Later this year:
Control, short story in The Big Book of Submission, Cleis Press
Deep Diving, Escape Publishing

Almost Real, Escape Publishing
Later this year:
Floored, Escape Publishing, April
Hooked On A Feeling, Escape Publishing, August

Allegiance Sworn, book 3 of the Light Blade series, Berkeley.

 

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by Juanita Kees on May 27, 2014  •  Permalink
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Posted by Juanita Kees on May 27, 2014

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Event Announcements

Do you have an event or workshop you’d like to share? RWA Members, email your event news to cruisin(at)romanceaustralia.com.

Roadshow South Australia

Weekend Romance: A Fair to Remembersa-writers-centre-inc
Presented by SAWC and Romance Writers of Australia Inc.
A weekend for writers and lovers of romantic fiction. Stop penning those love letters, put down the Mills & Boon, and forget those roses—it’s time for our inaugural genre fair—and it’s romance! RWA and SAWC have come together to bring you two days of whirling workshops, panel sessions, master classes, industry advice, meet the authors sessions, book signings and more. And on the Saturday night it’s the fundraising event of the year: our romance-themed lit quiz night. Full program and speakers announced in April.

When: Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June
Cost: 1 Day: $130 members/$170 non-members
Quiz Night: $20 per head
Weekend Package (2 days plus Quiz Night): $240 members /$340 non-members

View the FULL PROGRAM

Adelaide Roadshow: Call for donations

We are seeking donations for both the quiz night (raising funds for the SAWC) and as door prizes for the Fair weekend. Signed copies of books will work a treat but anything you can spare would be very much appreciated.

Please email Helen at roadshow@romanceaustralia.com with details.

Keeping Up Appearances

Meet Helene Young, Jenn J McLeod and Wendy James

Where: Cardiff Library, Newcastle, NSW

When: Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Time: 2pm – 4pm

An informal book signing with T.M.Clark.

When: Saturday, May 31

Time: From 10:30am to 12.30pm

Where: Guylian Belgian Chocolate Cafe, Darling Quarter TR5/TR6, 1-25 Harbour Street, Sydney NSW

You are welcome to join me at the cafe for an informal chatter, something cold or hot in the chocolate range if you want to, and get your book signed. I will bring some books with me to sell too.

Writer’s Classes, Groups, Workshops

Why is the romance genre so popular? Join The New Romantics for an enlightening and enlivening discussion on love in words. The panel includes four local published authors of various sub-genres of romantic fiction.
The panel will discuss with the audience the diversity and popularity of writing and reading romance, the changing roles and tropes of women in modern romantic fiction, balance of power and gender, breadth of the genre, the story within the story, what makes a good love scene, what defines a happy-ever-after ending and much more.
With Margareta Osborn, Kathryn Ledson, Jennifer Scoullar and Kate Belle
When: Saturday 7 June, 2pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre
Cost: $20 full / $18 conc
For more info and bookings go to WWAF website

Remember My Name: Author Branding is led by romance author Amy Andrews, memoirist Karen Tyrrell and crime fiction author Lea Scott. Over two hours, these three authors will help equip you with the tools to cement your author presence online and off. From author platforms to launches to community culture, this is the perfect seminar for any writer looking for longevity.

AMY ANDREWS is an award-winning author who writes contemporary romances for Harlequin Mills & Boon, Escape, Entangled, Harper Collins and Momentum. To date she’s sold 1.6 million books and been translated into over a dozen languages.

LEA SCOTT is a Queensland crime writer with two crime thrillers under her belt: The Ned Kelly Game and Eclipsed. She produced her own fate-inspired anthology, The Appointed Hour. Web: leascott.com

KAREN TYRRELL is a mental health advocate and author for children and adults. In 2012, she published Me & Her: A Memoir Of Madness, followed by Me & Him: A Guide To Recovery in 2013. She released Bailey Beats the Blah in 2013. Web: http://www.karentyrrell.com

Remember My Name: Author Branding
When: Saturday 14 June, 11am – 1pm
Where: Queensland Writers centre, Level 2, State Library of Queensland, Stanley Place, Cultural Centre, South Brisbane 4101
Cost: QWC members $30 / $27 Non-members $50 / $45
Bookings essential: www.qwc.asn.au or (07)3842 9922

Writing workshops to be taught by award wining authors Kate Forsyth and Amy Espeseth on July 26 and 27. Discount price on offer for full course bookings. This year’s topic is “So you want to write a novel?”

In Kate Forsyth’s only Melbourne appearance, participants will be introduced to key aspects of writing the first draft of their novel – from finding and developing their idea (plotting and planning) to making the right choice when considering point of view and narrative voice, plus the complexities and wonder of structure in Kate’s highly-anticipated Story structure masterclass.
Amy Espeseth’s writing workshops will build on Kate’s teachings about writing your first draft such as – learn how to create complex, believable characters, gain insights into the role of dialogue, and understand the intricate interplay between character motivation, and the arc of your story. Amy will also discuss what it means to be a writer, and offer ways to stay motivated while writing your first draft.

RWA Conference 2014

Romance Rocks!rwa14logoedit-light-300

4 days. 30+ workshops. Over 300 writers, editors, agents and publishing industry professionals. One epic conference.  Join us in Sydney with guest speakers; thriller writer and writing craft author, James Scott Bell, along with award-winning, best-selling romantic adventure author, Cherry Adair.

When: August 7-10 2014

Where: Novotel Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush Keep an eye out for updates on the blog and website for more information.

5DI: 5 Day Intensive Manuscript Workshop

5DI is a five-day, live-in workshop where aspiring and emerging writers get to work closely with and be mentored by an established author. A small group of 6 writers share a mentor for five days, and rework their manuscripts based on their mentor’s advice.

When: Saturday November 22 to Friday November 28

Where: University College, Melbourne.

Applications Open: applications are available to download from the RWA website from May 1.

Applications Close: Applications will close 15 June.

All completed applications are to be sent to: 5di@romanceaustralia.com

So if you think 5DI is for you, get to work on polishing those manuscripts!

Online Events

RWA is looking to offer our members a series of online writers’ workshops in the second half of 2014 through its new Online Workshop List (OWL). OWL events will be hosted, facilitated and promoted by RWA on a 75:25 profit-share arrangement with the presenter (the greater amount being the presenter’s). We would like to invite interested RWA members and non-RWA members to apply to conduct a workshop online through RWA in the inaugural OWL calendar. Please download the proposal form http://www.romanceaustralia.com/p/89/OWLs, complete by May 1 2014 and email to owl@romanceaustralia.com

Classes are run from Margie Lawson’s website using on-line teaching software used by universities. Take a cyber tour before you start your class and introduce yourself.

Affordable forum-style writing classes

A double Golden Heart finalist in 2006, Julie Rowe has been writing for over ten years. Julie  teaches a variety of workshops and is the moderator of the Announce Online Classes email loop, which promotes online classes for writers. To subscribe to the Announce online Classes email loop, send an email to: Announceonlinewritingclasses-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Claytons Conference 2014

We’re looking for a team to run the 2014 Claytons Conference (the digital conference that runs on the same weekend as the face-to-face conference for those who can’t attend Sydney). There are various positions to be filled but the primary one is the Claytons Coordinator who will lead a small team of committee volunteers to do specific tasks each. Organisation begins around May/June and the event happens August 9/10. Therefore this role is steady for about 10 weeks of the year only. Claytons is a valuable and enjoyable annual RWA event but we need people to make it happen. It’s a great way to make some new friends and industry contacts while having lots of fun. If you would like to find out more about any of the roles, please email volunteers@romanceaustralia.com or contact me (Events Liaison) at alli_sinclair@yahoo.com

Writers Festivals 2014

Prepare for this year’s WordStorm to rip through your mind stimulating it with compelling, often challenging and always entertaining subject matter that will leave you in a state of pleasant disruption and discovery. For the FULL PROGRAM & BOOKINGS please visit: wordstorm.org.au

When: May 29–June 1

This Festival featuring Special Guest Rachael Bermingham will help to realise your dreams of personal and financial success. This is suitable for EVERYONE!!! Highlight event will be the Follow Your Dreams Cocktail Evening with complimentary drink on arrival, door prizes, full canape catering, live cabaret entertainment and inspirational keynote speech.

This Festival is proudly sponsored by the Shire of Mundaring, the Department of Culture and the Arts (WA), Lion Mill Vineyards and Little Black Dress Productions, and with support from Dymocks Ellenbrook and Guardian Pharmacy Ellenbrook. For more details or to book email kspf@iinet.net.au or phone 92941872.

When: June 7

Where: Swan View Youth Centre, Perth

The Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival has become a popular annual cultural event showcasing leading authors and celebrating all things literary. With workshops, talks, forums, book launches, competitions, entertainment and school programs, its a diverse and inspiring  weekend with something for everyone.

When: June 7–9

The Mildura Writers’ Festival brings together some of Australia’s best writers in an intimate, winter program of workshops, lectures and discussion forums.

When: July 17–20

Early Bird Tickets for Byron Bay Writers Festival are on sale. Workshops commencing on 28 July. The Early Bird tickets are only on sale until the full program is announced on 6 June, so now is the time to pick up a discounted Festival pass. For more Festival information or to purchase Early Bird tickets visit byronbaywritersfestival.com.au or call 1300 368 552.

When: August 1–3

Melbourne Writers Festival (MWF) is Melbourne’s annual, two-week celebration for writers, readers and thinkers. Each year in August, the Festival celebrates the talent and ideas of hundreds of writers from Australia and around the world, through a vibrant program of storytelling, conversation and discussion, intellectual debate, educational programs, live performance, music and art events. The Festival includes events for people of all ages and more than a quarter of the program is free. Their highly regarded Schools’ Program attracts more than 15,000 students.

When: August 21–31

Details to be provided as soon as they become available.

When: September 3–7

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by Juanita Kees on May 25, 2014  •  Permalink
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Posted by Juanita Kees on May 25, 2014

https://romanceaustralia.wordpress.com/2014/05/25/event-announcements-33/

Romance Rocks Presents…

2014website-banner-with-sponsor-logo

Sarah Wendell, Jennifer St George and Helene Young will give you a workout in the pre-conference warm-ups on Professional Development Day, Thursday August 7.

Media Bootcamp Part 1 & 2 – Session PDD1 & 2, Track B

Love to see your name and books in the media but don’t know where to start? Does the idea of a journalist calling you for an interview make you shake? Let author, international speaker and the Founder of romance blog Smart Bitches, Trashy Books, Sarah Wendell; multi-award winning author, Helene Young and romance author and marketing specialist, Jennifer St George teach you the tricks to get your name up in lights! Learn how to develop a media strategy and handle interviews in a fun and interactive workshop. You’ll leave with the tools you need to make an impact in the media.

*Please note, this session is limited to 15 delegates only, and places will be awarded on a first in, first served basis*

Your Presenters – Sarah Wendell, Jennifer St George and Helene Young

We’re on a mission to raise the profile of ROMANCE!

Sarah, what prompted you to put together this workshop for “Romance Rocks”?110310_SarahWendell_17-slice

Jennifer St. George asked me! But more importantly, there is increased media interest in romance authors over the past few years, and my experiences with print and television media have been widely varied – from incredibly fun conversations that I wished could have gone on for hours to being asked about my sex life live in front of at least 250,000 people or more. I learned the harder way – and I think the three of us can help authors deal with any kind of media interest, from the positive to the prurient.

Asked about your sex life? Now that’s just plain rude… We know you had fun at the last conference, Sarah, so what’s the best part/aspect of conference for you?
What kind of silly question is this?! It is in Australia. Where there are Tim Tams. Enough said.

Seriously: RWAus is one of the best conferences I’ve ever been to, and I am so excited I can come back.

And we’re excited to have you visiting again!!
Helene, Media Bootcamp sounds like we’ll be pumping weights and sprinting. Will there be hands-on exercises with this workshop?Helene Young 2012 Author photo by Charlotte Rose (LR)
Oh yes indeed! But you can rest easy on the weights 🙂
We’ll have you presenting an interview like a true media star, prepared to tackle the best and worst questions. We’ll help you fine-tune your key messages and show you how to turn the interview to your advantage. Come ready to write, to be interviewed, and to learn, but you can leave those lycra running shorts at home!

In the middle of winter in Sydney there will definitely be no lycra…So which members will benefit most from this session?

Everyone will benefit from this session. I learnt so much from Jennifer at her last bootcamp and I think Sarah’s going to add another dimension to the workshop. No matter where you are on your writing journey learning to be media savvy is important. Radio interviews, festival appearances, TV interviews and Google Hangouts are all part of an author’s life. It’s never too soon to learn nor too late to do a refresher.

So, Jen, what will participants take away from this session?031b

Confidence. It’s our experience that authors can be quite nervous of interviews of any type. This session provides a safe environment to practice your skills, learn some fabulous tips on how to handle those tricky questions and how to achieve what you want from an interview. After this session, you’ll want to race home a write a media plan.

Do you use examples?

All three of us have extensive experience with media interviews. Sarah has been an interviewee (from small town newspapers to national US TV networks to writing festivals and much more!!) and interviewer (she’s conducted hundreds of author interviews) so will provide insights from both perspectives. With four books, numerous national book tours and being involved in all types of interviews, Helene has answered every question a journalist can throw. Learn from her extensive experience. I’ve spent many years in public relations and has media trained top executives to handle all kinds interviews. During my time with Guinness I was a global spokesperson for the company, quoted from the Irish Times to the Wall Street Journal. So we have real world examples galore – what to do and what not to do!

Thanks ladies for dropping by. Look forward to Media Bootcamp in Sydney!

Find more about Sarah at: http://www.smartbitchestrashybooks.com/
Jennifer St George at: http://www.jenniferstgeorge.com
Helene Young at: http://www.heleneyoung.com

1402254490.01.LZZZZZZZSafeHarbour_cover-1 low resThe Billionaire's Pursuit of Love cover

 

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by Juanita Kees on May 20, 2014  •  Permalink
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Posted by Juanita Kees on May 20, 2014

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Event Announcements

Do you have an event or workshop you’d like to share? RWA Members, email your event news to cruisin(at)romanceaustralia.com.

Keeping Up Appearances

May 20 – Author in Action

Where: Capalaba Library

When: 10:30 – 11:30 with refreshments before hand

Cost: Free Event

FMI and Bookings: (07) 3843 8010

Meet Helene Young, Jenn J McLeod and Wendy James.
Where: Cardiff Library, Newcastle, NSW
When: Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Time: 2pm – 4pm

Writer’s Classes, Groups, Workshops

Sex & Literature Panel – Sydney Writers Festival
Talking about sex can get even the coolest people hot under the collar. John Baxter, Kate Belle and John Purcell reveal their secrets about sex in the written form to Angela Meyer.
When: Thursday 22 May, 1.30pm
Where: Sydney Dance 2, Pier 4/5, Hickson Road, Walsh Bay
Cost: Free
More info and bookings: go to SWF2014 Website

is running two intensive master classes (May 19-23 and September 1-5 ) and a NaNoWriMo course that will run on Sundays in October (preparation) and November (weekly writing sessions). The courses will be at the Abbotsford Convent in Melbourne and include full catering. The courses have been designed to suit writers of all genres.
Find out more:
www.pdmartin.com.au/menu.aspx?mID=59
www.pdmartin.com.au/menu.aspx?mID=60

Why is the romance genre so popular? Join The New Romantics for an enlightening and enlivening discussion on love in words. The panel includes four local published authors of various sub-genres of romantic fiction.
The panel will discuss with the audience the diversity and popularity of writing and reading romance, the changing roles and tropes of women in modern romantic fiction, balance of power and gender, breadth of the genre, the story within the story, what makes a good love scene, what defines a happy-ever-after ending and much more.
With Margareta Osborn, Kathryn Ledson, Jennifer Scoullar and Kate Belle
When: Saturday 7 June, 2pm
Where: Woodend Community Centre
Cost: $20 full / $18 conc
For more info and bookings go to WWAF website

Remember My Name: Author Branding is led by romance author Amy Andrews, memoirist Karen Tyrrell and crime fiction author Lea Scott. Over two hours, these three authors will help equip you with the tools to cement your author presence online and off. From author platforms to launches to community culture, this is the perfect seminar for any writer looking for longevity.

AMY ANDREWS is an award-winning author who writes contemporary romances for Harlequin Mills & Boon, Escape, Entangled, Harper Collins and Momentum. To date she’s sold 1.6 million books and been translated into over a dozen languages.

LEA SCOTT is a Queensland crime writer with two crime thrillers under her belt: The Ned Kelly Game and Eclipsed. She produced her own fate-inspired anthology, The Appointed Hour. Web: leascott.com

KAREN TYRRELL is a mental health advocate and author for children and adults. In 2012, she published Me & Her: A Memoir Of Madness, followed by Me & Him: A Guide To Recovery in 2013. She released Bailey Beats the Blah in 2013. Web: http://www.karentyrrell.com

Remember My Name: Author Branding
When: Saturday 14 June, 11am – 1pm
Where: Queensland Writers centre, Level 2, State Library of Queensland, Stanley Place, Cultural Centre, South Brisbane 4101
Cost: QWC members $30 / $27 Non-members $50 / $45
Bookings essential: www.qwc.asn.au or (07)3842 9922

RWA Conference 2014

Romance Rocks!rwa14logoedit-light-300

4 days. 30+ workshops. Over 300 writers, editors, agents and publishing industry professionals. One epic conference.  Join us in Sydney with guest speakers; thriller writer and writing craft author, James Scott Bell, along with award-winning, best-selling romantic adventure author, Cherry Adair.

When: August 7-10 2014

Where: Novotel Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush Keep an eye out for updates on the blog and website for more information.

Roadshow South Australia

Weekend Romance: A Fair to Remember
Presented by SAWC and Romance Writers of Australia Inc.
A weekend for writers and lovers of romantic fiction. Stop penning those love letters, put down the Mills & Boon, and forget those roses—it’s time for our inaugural genre fair—and it’s romance! RWA and SAWC have come together to bring you two days of whirling workshops, panel sessions, master classes, industry advice, meet the authors sessions, book signings and more. And on the Saturday night it’s the fundraising event of the year: our romance-themed lit quiz night. Full program and speakers announced in April.

When: Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June
Cost: 1 Day: $130 members/$170 non-members
Quiz Night: $20 per head
Weekend Package (2 days plus Quiz Night): $240 members /$340 non-members

5DI: 5 Day Intensive Manuscript Workshop

5DI is a five-day, live-in workshop where aspiring and emerging writers get to work closely with and be mentored by an established author. A small group of 6 writers share a mentor for five days, and rework their manuscripts based on their mentor’s advice.

When: Saturday November 22 to Friday November 28

Where: University College, Melbourne.

Applications Open: applications are available to download from the RWA website from May 1.

Applications Close: Applications will close 15 June.

All completed applications are to be sent to: 5di@romanceaustralia.com

So if you think 5DI is for you, get to work on polishing those manuscripts!

Online Events

RWA is looking to offer our members a series of online writers’ workshops in the second half of 2014 through its new Online Workshop List (OWL). OWL events will be hosted, facilitated and promoted by RWA on a 75:25 profit-share arrangement with the presenter (the greater amount being the presenter’s). We would like to invite interested RWA members and non-RWA members to apply to conduct a workshop online through RWA in the inaugural OWL calendar. Please download the proposal form http://www.romanceaustralia.com/p/89/OWLs, complete by May 1 2014 and email to owl@romanceaustralia.com

Classes are run from Margie Lawson’s website using on-line teaching software used by universities. Take a cyber tour before you start your class and introduce yourself.

Affordable forum-style writing classes

A double Golden Heart finalist in 2006, Julie Rowe has been writing for over ten years. Julie  teaches a variety of workshops and is the moderator of the Announce Online Classes email loop, which promotes online classes for writers. To subscribe to the Announce online Classes email loop, send an email to: Announceonlinewritingclasses-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Claytons Conference 2014

We’re looking for a team to run the 2014 Claytons Conference (the digital conference that runs on the same weekend as the face-to-face conference for those who can’t attend Sydney). There are various positions to be filled but the primary one is the Claytons Coordinator who will lead a small team of committee volunteers to do specific tasks each. Organisation begins around May/June and the event happens August 9/10. Therefore this role is steady for about 10 weeks of the year only. Claytons is a valuable and enjoyable annual RWA event but we need people to make it happen. It’s a great way to make some new friends and industry contacts while having lots of fun. If you would like to find out more about any of the roles, please email volunteers@romanceaustralia.com or contact me (Events Liaison) at alli_sinclair@yahoo.com

Writers Festivals 2014

May 19 -25
For more information, including the program and booking information, www.swf.org.au.

May 29–June 1

June 7–9

July 17–20

August 1–3

Early Bird Tickets for Byron Bay Writers Festival are on sale. Workshops commencing on 28 July. The Early Bird tickets are only on sale until the full program is announced on 6 June, so now is the time to pick up a discounted Festival pass. For more Festival information or to purchase Early Bird tickets visit byronbaywritersfestival.com.au or call 1300 368 552.

August 21–31

September 3–7

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by Juanita Kees on May 18, 2014  •  Permalink
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Posted by Juanita Kees on May 18, 2014

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Romance Rocks 2014 Presents…

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On Saturday 9th August on Track C, Session 2, Kate Cuthbert and Kat Mayo will take delegates beyond the basics, over the hurdles, and into the fast-paced world of reader-author interaction.

Beyond the Basics: Dilemmas, Dangers and Dramas in the Social World

In response to requests from last year’s participants for something beyond an explanation of the different types of social media, Kate and Kat have a workshop that moves beyond the basics to discuss the more high-level issues that come with author/reader interaction.

Your Presenters – Kate Cuthbert and Kat Mayo

Editor, Publisher, Genre advocate, book reviewer, lover of romance, believer in happy endings. Kat reads the ends first. Kate thinks this is sacrilege.

Have you presented sessions at previous conferences, for RWA or other organisations?Kate Cuthbert

Yes, we presented together (along with Sarah Wendell) in Perth in 2013 on reader/writer interactions, and Kate has presented a number of workshops on social media and authors.

Do you use examples (from your own books, other books, movies etc)?

Absolutely – we’ll be using examples from across the different social spaces, talking about them, discussing solutions, and presenting take-home strategies that can be adapted and adopted.

Which members will benefit most from this session?

Members who are already well-versed in social media, know their options and what works best for them. Members who are looking for a more detailed discussion of the positives and negatives of social media, who want to delve deeper into social spaces.

What is the best part/aspect of conference for you?Kat Mayo

Being in one place with a whole conference full of people who get it. It’s the highlight of my year.

Any advice for conference first-timers?

Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself. Everyone is there for the same reason you are, and everyone loves talking about books. The only opening line you need is, ‘Hi. My name is <> and I write <>. What do you write?’

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by Juanita Kees on May 16, 2014  •  Permalink
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Posted by Juanita Kees on May 16, 2014

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Romance Rocks Presents…

 

2014website-banner-with-sponsor-logo

On Saturday 9th August on Track D, Session 1, our presenter Fiona Lowe already sports a Track Record. Who better to deliver a workshop on Emotional Timelines: the key to writing a great character arc than a RITA and R*BY winning author…

Emotional Timelines: The Key to Writing a Great Character Arc

Ever watched a TV show, movie or read a book where the character’s reaction comes out of left-field and you’re thinking, ‘What the?’ It pulls you out of the story.
Using a PowerPoint presentation, movie clips and written examples, this workshop will discuss creating an emotional timeline to give characters their emotional arc so they can get their happy ever after. Writers will leave having learned how to create well-motivated, complex, multifaceted characters that readers care about and understand.
This workshop is suitable for all writers who want to give their work emotional punch.

Your Presenter – Fiona LoweFiona Lowe Rita Photo600

Fiona Lowe is a RITA® and R*BY award-winning, multi-published author with Harlequin , Carina Press and in 2015, Berkley USA. Whether her books are set in outback Australia or in the mid-west of the USA, they feature small towns with big hearts, and warm, likeable characters that make you fall in love. When she’s not writing stories, she’s a weekend wife, mother of two ‘ginger’ teenage boys, guardian of 80 rose bushes and often found collapsed on the couch with wine. You can find her at her website, facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

Author, mother, weekend wife, cat slave & guardian of 80 roses.

Have you presented sessions at previous conferences, for RWA or other organisations?
YES! I’ve presented at two roadshows and this will be my 4th conference 🙂

What prompted you to put together this workshop for “Romance Rocks”?
I ‘m passionate about the craft of writing and I can talk about it for hours! This way I get to do it with people who are interested 😉

What will participants take away from this session?
Writers will leave having learned how to create complex, multifaceted characters that readers care about, root for and understand.

Do you use examples (from your own books, other books, movies etc)?
I do! I have been using movie clips since 2008 as it really helps back up the message of what I’m saying. Although not required, attendees might find that reading my Wedding Fever trilogy or one of the three books (Saved By The Bride, Picture Perfect Wedding, Runaway Groom) will help them take more away from the session.

What is the best part/aspect of conference for you?
Being able to talk with other writers! It doesn’t matter whether they are new or experienced, they totally ‘get’ the writing life and they don’t give me strange looks when I say, “my characters are not doing what I want them to do!”

Any advice for conference first-timers?

Come with a smile! Say hello to the person standing next to you because they are a writer and you already share that in common 🙂

What is your latest/current/upcoming book release and where can members find out more about you?Faned covers

My Carina Press Wedding Fever trilogy is available now, with all three books – Saved By The Bride, Picture Perfect Wedding and Runaway Groom. They can be bought where all eBooks are sold!

I also have some bundles of past medical romances being re-released in April and August, which is exciting. These books have been out of print for a few years so it will be great to see them with new covers

My website has a complete list of my 25 novels, buy links and a heap of other information about me, the writing life and photos. You can also find me at Facebook and Twitter

 

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by Juanita Kees on May 9, 2014  •  Permalink
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Posted by Juanita Kees on May 9, 2014

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Romance Rocks 2014 Presents…

 

2014website-banner-with-sponsor-logo

There’s no time-out on Saturday 9th August as Dr John Barletta finishes the first day of the official conference on Track B, Session 3 with his workshop on being a rockin’ resilient romance writer.

Being a Rockin’ Resilient Romance Writer

This workshop focuses on personal development with reference to being a fearless writer. Taking chances with your writing and your life is not something that comes easily. This session explores ways to be bold and passionate with life choices. It encourages writers to overcome procrastination, motivate themselves, increase self-efficacy, and engage in personal growth. With attention to these areas, writers will grow in resilience and improve their writing. This session is engaging, down-to-earth, and practical.

Your Presenter – Dr John Barletta PhD (Clinical Psychologist)Dr John Barletta

Dr John Barletta is a Counselling, Consulting, and Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Brisbane. For 30 years he’s enjoyed helping individuals, couples, families, professionals and corporations deal with a range of motivational, emotional, relational and professional issues. John, a graduate of Queensland University of Technology (DipT, GradDipCouns), Australian Catholic University (BEd), University of Queensland (MEdSt) and Ohio University (PhD), is responsible for over 250 contributions to publications and conferences, and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society and College of Clinical Psychologists. His book, The Home Therapist, a unique, self-help guide for everyday psychological issues, has been well-received.

I enjoy supporting/challenging people to develop a flourishing life.

Have you presented sessions at previous conferences, for RWA or other organisations?
Yep…for RWA three times (Bris/Syd/Melb)—and over 150 other sessions for various associations since 1990 (I started very young).

What prompted you to put together this workshop for “Romance Rocks”?
I think that writers/readers need to be fearless, and taking chances is not something that comes easily to most people. I want people to explore ways to be more bold and passionate with their life choices. It specifically outlines how people can overcome procrastination, motivate themselves, increase their self-efficacy, and engage in personal growth.

Which members will benefit most from this session?
Everyone from novices to experts—for very different reasons (trust me, I’m a Psychologist). (more…)

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by Juanita Kees on May 6, 2014  •  Permalink
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Posted by Juanita Kees on May 6, 2014

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Romance Rocks 2014 Presents…

 

2014website-banner-with-sponsor-logo

An event with a difference on Track D, Session 2, Saturday 9th August when the LoveCats DownUnder get together for a workshop that tells you everything you need to know about writing category romance.

Everything you ever wanted to know about writing Category Romance but were afraid to ask

Sue Mackay says participants in this workshop will leave with a genuine insight into what an author can expect after that first sale. They will tell you about your many obligations to editors, agents, and readers. They’ll answer questions on the highs and the lows of being published, and how that just because you’ve sold your first book the hard work doesn’t stop so that you’re well prepared for life after that first sale.

Your PresentersCatsSydneyPanel

We’re fourteen Aussie and NZ romance authors who blog together.

Which members will benefit most from this session?

Annie West: Any member who has ever wondered what category romance is, how it’s defined (and how that’s changing), how it’s written, who reads it and what you can expect as either a category romance reader or author, especially with the changing face of publishing. Members considering writing category will find this useful, as will those curious about the processes of working with some of the best known publishers in the romance industry.

What is the best part/aspect of conference for you?

Helen Lacey: One of the best things about the conference is the networking. With so many authors, agents, editors and industry professionals merging together it’s a wonderful opportunity to ask questions, to connect with people you may only know in cyberspace, and mostly to absorb information about writing and publishing.

Anything you’re particularly looking forward to at the 2014 Romance Rocks conference in Sydney?

Jennifer St George: I’m very much looking forward to attending workshops held by James Scott Bell. I hope to hear his insights on plot and structure and his views on how to achieve your writing goals. I’d also be interested in his approach to revisions and edits. And of course I can’t wait to catch up with all my RWA friends.

Any advice for conference first-timers?

Michelle Douglas: Don’t be shy. The very best part of the conference is meeting up with like-minded people. You will make lifetime friends here. Promise. So don’t be a wallflower. If you find yourself standing in line next to someone you don’t know (waiting for a workshop session, at the bookstall, queuing for lunch or just at the toilets) strike up a conversation. There are two foolproof questions that are conversation starters at the conference: What kind of stories do you write? and, Who are you favourite authors?

Also, if you find yourself starting to flag then take a half-hour timeout. At certain times during the weekend I do find the noise can start to get to me. A quiet cuppa in my room or a brisk walk always help to reinvigorate me.

Most importantly–have fun!

What is your latest/current/upcoming book release and where can members find out more about you?

Louisa George: For more information on all the Lovecats’ new releases please visit us at our blog: http://lovecatsdownunder.blogspot.com

Once there you’ll find lots of information about us and all our books. We usually have three new blog posts a week plus a weekly Sunday smooch with an excerpt from one of our (or a guest’s) new releases. We also often have giveaways! If there is one particular LoveCat or book that you want to find out more about, there are links to all our individual websites on our blog sidebar. We’d love to see you there, so do come over for a visit.

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by Juanita Kees on May 2, 2014  •  Permalink
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