When Writers Gather

Debby (L) visits with Love Inspired author Missy Tippens (R)

Debby Giusti here!

Ever wonder where writers meet and what they talk about when they get together?  Often they gather at local or regional writers' meetings.  Last Saturday, I joined with other members of my Georgia Romance Writers' chapter for our monthly get-together and presentation.

We arrive at 9 AM for breakfast at an Atlanta-area hotel, and a business meeting follows the meal.  Our chapter president shares information on upcoming events, and board members discuss various projects with which GRW is involved.

A regular part of the format is when we share good news.  The sale of a book, writing awards, even rejections are celebrated.  How can a rejection be good news?  Because it means the member is submitting his or her work to editors and agents.  Just because a story didn't sell this time, doesn't mean it won't the next time, and as we all know, a manuscript can't sell if it hasn't been submitted.

(L to R) GRW President Anna Stefl chats with board member
Nancy Norcott and critique partners Larissa Hoffman and Denise Plumart.

On Saturday, Author Jana Oliver presented a fun and thought-provoking program entitled, "The Best and Worst Advice I've Ever Received."  She laced her presentation with plenty of humor and even gave the audience a chance to share advice they had been given over the years.  Jana closed with the following challenge: Trust the gift, the story, the characters and yourself.

Missy (far R) and Susan Carlisle get ready for the book signing.

A book signing ends the formal meeting, and by 1:30 PM, folks were heading back to their families and their computers.  Next month, we'll spend another morning together, talking about books and publishing. Stop by if you're in Atlanta!

Best-selling suspense authors and GRW members
(L) Leslie Tentler and (R) Kate Brady

Happy reading!  Happy writing!

Wishing you abundant blessings,
Debby Giusti
www.DebbyGiusti.com
www.seekerville.blogspot.com
Faith with an edge...cross my heart!


THE OFFICER'S SECRET, book 1 in Debby's Military Investigations series, and THE CAPTAIN'S MISSION, book 2, are still available in print or e-book.  Be sure to order your copy through www.Amazon.com.