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For a new writer, joining a critique group can be one of the most important decisions you make to advance your writing skills. Shortly after I first joined RWA two years ago, I also met my first critique group. They have taught me more about my writing than I ever could have learned so quickly on my own. I probably would have learned it eventually, but there’s nothing like having almost weekly feedback on what’s going wrong and what’s going right in your current work. Recently, I joined a second critique group that is (if it’s possible) even more awesome-cakes…

Pitching face-to-face with an agent or an editor is one of the best ways to get your material on their desk. With the experience fresh in my mind, I thought I would share some tips about how it works, what you should wear, whether or not you should be nervous, and whether the stress is worth it. First things first. Before you even sign up for an appointment, do your research! Make sure the person you are meeting with represents or publishes the type of novel you are pitching. Also, make sure your book is finished. Pitching an unfinished book…

A fun time was had by all at the RWA 2010 National Conference in Orlando! Here is a slideshow of some of my favorite pictures from this year’s conference, featuring the beautiful and talented women of Heart of Carolina Romance Writers, the Raleigh, NC chapter of RWA. I tried to get by and say hello to all of our authors at the signing, but somehow I missed taking pictures of Alexandra Sokoloff (who was looking so good in her sparkly top btw) and Beth Williamson. Also, I could have sworn I had pictures of our fabulous Deb Marlowe, one of…

I had an amazing time at the RWA National Conference! Of course, I got home yesterday and crashed for about five hours, then slept like a baby last night in my own bed, but it was worth any loss of sleep! I met some amazing authors, fellow YARWA members, spent time getting to know people who have the same dreams as me and are working to get published and also talked to writers who are in the position I WANT to be in someday. It’s an amazing networking opportunity and I am so happy I went. I have a feeling…

Laptop? Check. iPod loaded with a brand new audio book to enjoy (Ally Carter’s I’d Tell You I Love You, But Then I’d Have to Kill You!)? Check. Super cute business cards? Yep. Hello Kitty notebook so I can make tons of useful notes during workshops? You betcha. I am so excited about heading out to the RWA National Conference in Orlando! I’ve been packing all weekend, making sure laundry is done (both mine and my husband’s – not sure he would even know how to do his own laundry anymore. He’s so spoiled :p), downloading a new audio book…

Two completely unrelated topics, but hey, it’s Friday and I can do what I want! First, I just had to share this crazy story about a zombie jellyfish who stung 150 people near a New Hampshire beach AFTER it was dead. It decomposed off shore and its still-active tentacles dispersed into the waters, stinging people. Some of those who were stung ended up at the hospital, so I realize this is no laughing matter. However, it’s still crazy. In other news, tonight is the Sarra Bonanza! My friends and critique partners are coming over tonight to talk about my completed…