Tamara Gill

RWAust Emerald Award

2012-02-14T20:21:00.001+10:30

Woo Hoo, I made it through to the second round of the RWAust Emerald Award, and you better believe it, I'm stoked. This week has already been a blur, (what day is it again??) and will continue that way until Monday when I post the full ms. Short post as I'm already pushing my luck with getting it ready. Wish me luck...I'll need it!

You can find the list of the other finalists here. Congratulations ladies and good luck!

Contract Signed - Decadent Publishing

2012-02-08T21:45:00.000+10:30

Well, the week is young yet so much has happened. Today I signed a publishing contract for my Regency novella (currently titled) 'A Marriage Made in Mayfair' with Decadent Publishing!

*insert happy dancing*

I'm very pleased to see this novella published as last year was anything but easy for me when it came to writing. I had so many great things happen last year, had an amazing, supportive, talented critique partner, landed an fantastic mentor through RWA chapter The Beau Monde (still don't know how I managed that), and fell pregnant and had our first daughter Lily in Oct. Yet, even with all these wonderful things, I couldn't write, and yes, you better believe it, it took me a year to finish this story. It was a novella, peeps and yet I struggled. Terribly so. But I'm back at it and my muse is chatting to me again so watch this space for more news during the year.

So, as you can probably imagine I'm stoked that my lovely Suzanna and Royce will have their story told. Now, all I have to hope is you'll love them as much as I do. Here's the (current) blurb to wet your appetite.

Miss Suzanna March wished for one thing, the elusive, rakish charmer, Lord Danning. But after a frightful first season sees her flee to Paris, such dreams seem impossible. That is until she returns to London, a new woman, and one who will not let the ton's dislike of her stand in her way of gaining what she wants. Revenge on the Lord who gave her the cut direct and perhaps a little flirtation to show the mighty Viscount what he'll never have.

Lord Danning unbeknown to his peers is in financial strife and desperate to marry an heiress. Such luck would have it Miss Suzanna March fits all his credentials and seduction is his plan of action. Yes, the woman who returned from Paris is stronger, defiant, and a little argumentative, but it does not stop Lord Danning finding himself in awe and protective of her.

But will Suzanna fall for such pretty words from a charmer only after one thing. Or will Lord Danning prove to Suzanna and himself that she is more than his ticket out of debtor's prison...

Happy writing!

Will I or Wont I?

2012-01-15T17:20:00.000+10:30

You're probably wondering what I will or will not be doing. Well, what I'm debating atm is will I jump into the world of Indie Publishing??? Big step for me as just the thought of doing so makes me a little nervous. It means I'd have only myself to publicise my book, get reviews, upload it on sites like Amazon, Smashwords etc etc. But, after a very short rejection today sent from an iPad, I'm starting to wonder if my story and voice will find a home. Of course I still have it out with other publishers and should it be rejected by them, then I think I will publish it myself. Sometimes I think you have to believe in yourself and your work and just jump. So watch this cliff face peeps...

Also, just wanted to mention I had a beautiful banner made from The Romance Reviews. If you can't see it, I'm assuming you're not looking hard enough. *hint* It's right above this post. Isn't it lovely. I just love it and would recommend using TRR as I found them professional and very helpful.

Hope everyone had a great Xmas and Happy New Year! Bring on 2012.

Pregnancy & Birth through History

2011-11-28T06:00:00.003+10:30

I'm blogging on

Pregnancy and Birth through History

today at Historical Hearts.

Drop in and say hi. I'd love to see you there.

I'm back...

2011-11-07T09:56:00.001+10:30

I can't believe it's been nearly two months since my last blog post. Some of you may have wondered where I disappeared too. Well, not too far, just the local hospital where I gave birth to our third child, a daughter, Lily. So October really didn't exist for us and especially me with my writing as family, friends etc bombarded us all eager to meet our newest bundle of love.

But, with November clicking around, and myself into a routine, after months of silence, my muse is talking to me again. So much so, that I've finished the first three chapters of my ST rewrite, which I'll start placing into competitions for feedback. I'm subbing a Regency (sensual) novella and getting back into the social network side of writing. Oh, and did I tell you I'm doing Nano...

At the end of November I'm doing a post on the Historical Hearts Blog on pregnancy and birth in history. So keep an eye out for that. I thought it would be a fitting post considering what I've just gone through, but jeepers, do I feel for those historical women. Ouch!

Finally, hello again. I promise not to disappear and hopefully in the next few months I'll have some exciting news in relation to my wip.

Happy writing!

Historical Hearts Launch Party - Happening NOW!

2011-09-13T11:51:00.000+09:30

Don't miss the new Australian Historical Romance Writers

Historical Hearts Blog Launch

happening NOW!

From 12th - 16 Sept, prizes, gossip and fun is to be had at

http://historicalhearts.blogspot.com

We'd love to see you there!

RWAust 20 Years of Covers Competition

2011-08-19T16:19:00.000+09:30

I'm so happy and delighted to announce that my cover for 'A Captain's Order - A Duke's Command' won and tied for first place with Christina Phillips 'Captive' in the RWA 20 Years of Cover Contest - Historical category. Unable to attend the conference, I was following the Twitter feed last Saturday night and nearly died when my name came up! Knowing who I was up against, I didn't think I stood a chance. So thank you to all who voted for me and Fiona Jayde who designed the winning cover. Thank you!

RWAust Top 15 Romance Covers!

2011-07-28T17:07:00.000+09:30

So excited to announce that my novella cover, 'A Captain's Order - A Duke's Command' finaled in the RWAust 20 Years of Romance Covers Competition! I often find myself staring at this cover, so I'm so pleased to know I'm not the only one who likes it. Of course, without Noble Romance Publishing's amazing cover artist Fiona Jayde, I would never have had a change. So thank you, Fiona and good luck to everyone who made it through. Bring on Melb!

A Book Blurb kind of day!

2011-06-09T10:38:00.000+09:30

The blurb for my new Regency novella, A Marriage Made in Mayfair is now up and available to read for those who may be interested. This book will hopefully be available later this year from an ebookstore near you! You can read the blurb here.

Happy writing...

A Marriage Made in Mayfair!

2011-05-28T12:36:00.000+09:30

The title says it all really. Yes, A Marriage Made in Mayfair is my next novella I'm determined to be published. After some weeks away from the computer, my muse is talking to me again, and the ms is coming along nicely. The break worked out well really, since over the last few weeks my cp hasn't been available so the second opinion (hers) I don't move on with without, couldn't be done anyway. But we're all back on board and the book is looking to be subbed in the next few months. Definitely before my third child is born in Oct in any case. If you want to read more about this ms please click here.

I'm also working on my single title, a complete rewrite on, A Stolen Season with my mentor who said I nailed the first chapter, which was such a relief, because I can now move on knowing that the beginning is at least correct. Lets hope I can continue nailing the story all the way through the book. If you want to know more about this ms please click here.

Happy writing and editing everyone. I know I will be.

Facebook, Blogs and Twitter. Oh My!

2011-03-20T17:07:00.000+10:30

First of all, apologies for being a missing person of late. Been very ill with my third pregnancy, so much so, it's taken all my energy just to keep my two boys fed, and with clean clothes on their back. Thankfully, I'm hoping as the first trimester fades into the awful distant past, so will my sickness and other issues that came with that, and writing and reading can start to wiggle it's way back into my life.

So, as per my blog heading you may guess what I'm going to promote today. Yes, Facebook, Blogs and Twitter accounts for writing groups and chapters I'm a member of. Ones, that have now ventured into the big wide world of social media. Very exciting, so without further ado...

SARA - South Australian Romance Authors

Blog

Facebook

Twitter

Happy writing, following, reading and tweeting peeps.

Everything runs in three's...

2011-02-15T21:10:00.000+10:30

They say everything runs in three's. Well, that was certainly true last week for me. First we finally moved into our new home, and after sixteen months of building, it couldn't have happened soon enough.

Secondly, I received word that I now have a mentor. To say I'm ecstatic about this is an understatement. She's won the RWA Golden Heart for a Regency Novella, been nominated for a RITA and is multi published with HM&B Historical. I'm nervous about working with her, but she's made me feel welcome and relaxed. I cannot wait to receive my first ever feedback from her.

Thirdly, we found out I'm going to have another baby. This would make three children in total, my hubby and I will now be officially out numbered. Because we're due in Sept, I've decided not to go to the RWAust Conference in Melbourne. I'm so disappointed, as I was looking forward to this so much, but life sometimes throws you a curve ball and you have to go with the flow.

On the writing front, I'm editing a novella for Noble, one I hope to have in their inbox by the end of March. I'm working on my single titles with my mentor and waiting patiently for my cp to give me another chapter of hers. "Come on Jo, where is it???" *taps foot*

Happy writing.

School's Back!

2011-01-28T19:40:00.001+10:30

Is that a sigh of delight I hear echoing around Australia? Yes, school's back on Monday for many of us Aussie writers, some already heading into their second week. And as much as I love my boys, it's been a long nine weeks trying to keep them occupied. I don't think I've always succeeded, but I have tried. We've visited family, went to the movies, visited friends, went swimming, played at playgrounds the list goes on. Even with all these activities, I do believe they're looking forward to Monday and so am I.

Not only because of school, but due to a house we've been building over the last 14 months will be completed with handover on Wednesday. It's been a long time coming and I'm looking forward to being able to live there. I will be able to scribble away to my hearts content through the day in a quiet home, hubby at work and kids at school. I do believe I'm a little spoilt. Talking of writing I'm over at Sarah Ballance's blog on Friday 4th February talking about writing and my latest release A Captain's Order - A Duke's Command. Drop in and say hi, one lucky guest (I hope *g*) will walk away with a copy of the novella.

Happy writing.

Heads Up - Blogging over at Noble Romance Authors Blog Monday 24th

2011-01-17T21:38:00.002+10:30

I'm blogging over at the
Noble Romance Authors Blog

on Monday 24th January.

Celebrating the release of my Regency novella

A Captain's Order - A Duke's Command

and also...

talking about my writing life, and how it all began.

Hope to see you there!!

And the winner is...

Maryde!
Congratulations!!!

I hope you enjoy
A Captain's Order - A Duke's Command

RWA Flooded Communities Book Appeal

2011-01-14T14:55:00.000+10:30

We've all seen the devastation the recent Queensland, Austalia floods have wrought and have wondered how we can help. We know that for many affected families, books will not be high on their priorities list for some time to come.

But...

We also know how valuable books can be in providing time out when reality gets tough.

So…

With the aid of some wonderful volunteers, we've put together a Romance Writers of Australia Flooded Communities Book Appeal.

What we need?

FICTION BOOKS! Romance books, children's books, young adult books, genre books, whatever – either new or in sparkling condition.

Please send them to:

RWA Flooded Communities Book Appeal

PO Box 1717

Noosaville Post Office
Noosaville BC

Queensland 4566

Australia

When to send them?

Now! And any time over the next few months. The books will be boxed and delivered to the appropriate libraries/schools/neighbourhood centres/community centres in batches as soon as the communities are ready to receive them. We’ll be liaising with councils, libraries and schools to ensure this is done appropriately. Feel free to pop a note inside, or if you're an author, sign it.

Questions:

If you have a question about donations, email Jess Anastasi: Jess@jessanastasi.com

If you work in a library / council / community centre / school in a flood affected area, email Rachel Bailey: rachel@rachelbailey.com.au

Thanks for your understanding and cooperation!

New Cover - A Captain's Order - A Duke's Command

2011-01-11T14:05:00.000+10:30

Here it is!!!! My cover for my upcoming release

A Captain's Order - A Duke's Command

Isn't it beautiful. I just love it!!!

Thank you Noble Romance Publishing and Fiona, such a brilliant cover artist!!!

I'm a guest at the LadyScribes blog today!

2011-01-07T17:00:00.000+10:30

So drop in for your chance to win a copy of my Regency Naughty Nibble, To Sin with Scandal, available now from Noble Romance Publishing.

Click here to go to the LadyScribes blog.

Good luck!

Keeping up with it all...

2011-01-03T21:08:00.003+10:30

*wipes sweat from brow*. Wow, what a couple of weeks I've had. My month long blog party followed by Christmas and the release of my Regency Naughty Nibble came and went in a blur. And here we are, January 3 and I've started edits on my Regency Novella due out Jan 24 from Noble Romance Publishing while trying to keep up with all the sites my book's been released on. Don't get me wrong, I'm having a ball. And every time I see my Naughty Nibble on ebook selling sites I can't help but smile and call my hubby over to have a look. *grin*

So sometime this week my book will be available on Amazon the worlds biggest online store and I'm so excited but nervous. I'm sure To Sin with Scandal will not be everyone's cup of tea, but I'll roll with the punches. I'm sure it will suit others just fine. I'm also guest blogging on LadyScribes on Jan 7, but I'll have more info on this in a later post. Hope everyone had a wonderful New Years and I look forward to spending the next writing year with you all.

2010-12-31T00:00:00.004+10:30

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

I'm in the Hot Seat with H.C. Brown today!

2010-12-27T10:25:00.002+10:30

Hi everyone!

I'm in the hot seat on H.C. Brown's blog today talking about my Regency Naughty Nibble, To Sin with Scandal that's released TODAY!!!! WOO HOOO!! Please drop in to say hello, I'm giving one lucky guest a free copy of the book.

Tam :-)

Here's the link.
http://hcbrownauthoroferoticromance.blogspot.com/

And the winner is...

Di Curran

Congratulations and enjoy!

Teaser Trailer

2010-12-21T20:50:00.000+10:30

Here's a little teaser trailer for my upcoming release

'To Sin with Scandal'

Available December 27, Noble Romance Publishing

To Sin with Scandal Winner!

2010-12-21T11:35:00.000+10:30

A HUGE shout out of thanks to everyone who stopped by and commented on my month long blog party!

Thank you to the wonderful Noble Romance Publishing authors who partook in the party.

Jess Anastasi - Sanctuary

Heather Boyd - One Wicked Night

H.C. Brown - Floggers Holiday Anthology

Sarah Ballance - Run to You

Mary Abshire - Claiming the Evil Dead

As you know my boys picked one lucky guest (I hope *g*) from everyone who left a comment.
And this is what you've won.

To Sin with Scandal

A Regency Historical Naughty Nibble

*Insert Drum Roll Please*
And the winner is...
Carol Challis
Congratulations!!!!

I will forward you a copy of To Sin with Scandal
after its release on the 27th December.
Enjoy!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Everyone!
Stay safe this holiday season.
This is me signing out for the year!
Tam x

Mary Abshire - Claiming the Evil Dead

2010-12-20T06:00:00.026+10:30

Please welcome Mary Abshire to my month long blog party, celebrating my Regency Naughty Nibble TO SIN WITH SCANDAL due out December 27. Mary's book, CLAIMING THE EVIL DEAD shares a release day with me with Noble Romance Publishing. Congrats! So glad to have you here, Mary!!!

Claiming the Evil Dead is your first book and to be released Dec 27 with Noble Romance Publishing, Congratulations!!! Can you tell us how long it took you to write, edit and submit your manuscript? And what led you to write in the paranormal, urban fantasy genre? First, thank you Tam for the opportunity to talk about my new book.

In answer to your first question...The first round of writing and editing took around three and half months. Then I pitched it to several agents at the National RWA conference in July. I received positive feedback and many loved the premise. After the conference I spent three more weeks editing my novel. I hacked over 7000 words. In September, I submitted it to publishers instead of agents. A month later, Noble Romance responded.

As to what led me to write in the paranormal / urban fantasy genre, I’d say the paranormal has always been an interest of mine. I grew up watching sci-fi and horror shows. When I was a teenager, way too many years ago, I started reading Anne Rice and I evolved from there. People always say write what you know and love. I love vampires. I love the supernatural in general. I love the good vs. evil concept - maybe it’s because I spent eight years attending a Lutheran school. Religion has a way of making your mind wander. *smile*

Can you tell us a little more about the book? Sure. The main character, Jessie Garrett, is half-demon and she secretly catches evil souls and sends them to Hell. She has a somewhat normal life and doesn’t trust other supernatural creatures. A sexy vampire, Drake, finds her and offers her a job to claim the soul of an evil vamp. She thinks it over and accepts his offer. Needless to say, they have a few problems as they search for the evil vamp and she discovers she is attracted to Drake. Then she bumps into a hot demon, Jeremy, who causes some problems, but also helps her. Besides dealing with evil spirits, vampires, and demons, she has plenty of her own internal conflicts to deal with. The ending has a bit of a twist.

Now a little birdie told me, Noble may be interested in the sequel novel, Catching an Evil Tail? Can you tell us a little more about this? Well, I’ll say this much, if you like Jeremy from the first book then you’ll really enjoy the second. In short, they make a deal and she goes after a werewolf to send its soul to Hell. But nothing is ever simple for Jessie.

How much fun did you have writing this book, or were there times when you wanted to throw up your hands and walk away? I’ve enjoyed writing all of them. I can’t say that I’ve ever wanted to walk away. I like Jessie. She’s a lot of fun. All the characters are in their own way.

For those writers out there reading this and trying to break into publication, what advice would you give them? Never give up submitting your work. Read and write EVERY day!! Set goals, reasonable ones. Just my opinion - it’s okay to go to a publisher instead of an agent. The market is changing so fast and there are very good publishers looking for stories. Why share profits with an agent? Opportunities are here for writers. As always, you have to do your homework and find out which pub is best for your wants/needs.

Are you apart of any writing or critique groups and if so, would you recommend using them? And how have they helped you to succeed and become a published author? I am part of a critique group with the Fantasy, Futuristic, and Paranormal Chapter, but I don’t use them much. They are good and I have no complaints. But I met someone at the RWA conference and we exchange crits now. I think it does help to have a different set of eyes looking at your work and I highly recommend it. Yes, they help. I also recommend Stephen King’s On Writing book. I don’t read his work, but that one book about writing was amazing!

What's next for Mary Abshire? I’m working on the third soul catcher novel and I have an idea for the fourth. I have a completed urban fantasy novel that I hope to have published in 2011 and I’d like to start on the sequel to it. Right now, catching evil souls is top priority.

BLURB:

CLAIMING THE EVIL DEAD

Half-demon Jessie Garrett is searching for an evil vampire preying upon children so she can claim his soul and send it to Hell. To find the dead man walking she must partner with a bloodsucker, Drake, and she doesn’t trust him. While Jessie works with Drake, she learns not all vampires are killers and discovers the cold-blooded vamp is a temptation too difficult to resist.

After the fiend abducts another child and Jessie has a near fatal experience with a group of vampires, she turns to Jeremy, a hot demon she bumped into at a club. Against Drake's wishes, she makes a deal with Jeremy's for his help. Soon, Jessie finds herself wedged between two volatile creatures. When the chance comes to save the child’s life and claim the evil vamp’s soul, she must decide whom she can trust—a vampire who cools her feverish desires or a demon hell bent on seducing her.

Thank you, for joining me today, Mary, and may I wish you all the best with your future writing career. CLAIMING THE EVIL DEAD sounds like a great read, can't wait to read it myself. Mary has been kind enough to say she will drop in over the day and reply to any questions you may ask, so feel free to chat, we welcome all comments. You can find out more about Mary Abshire, and her book(s) and works in progress on her website. To Purchase CLAIMING THE EVIL DEAD please visit Noble Romance Publishing on or after the 27th of this month.

WIN A COPY OF CLAIMING THE EVIL DEAD

Yes, you read that right. To win a e-book copy of CLAIMING THE EVIL DEAD please supply the answer to the following question. (Answer can be found in the blurb). What is Jessie Garrett? One lucky guest will be pulled from a hat and Mary will forward you a copy of her book after the 27th of December.

Good Luck!

And the winner is...Cindy!!!!
Congratulations!!!!
Mary will forward you a copy of CLAIMING THE EVIL DEAD after its release on the 27th.
Enjoy!

Noble Christmas Party 18th Dec

2010-12-18T00:34:00.002+10:30

Join

Megan Hussey

Heather Boyd

and me, Tamara Gill

US EST – Saturday 18th – 5pm till 6pm

which is

Australia EST - Sunday 19th – 9am and 10am

For a chat, games and prizes.

One lucky guest will win a 'Dare to be Different' Noble Hat.
But no one will leave empty handed!!!

We're also giving away Noble Christmas Recipe Cookbook.

I'll be giving away a copy of my Regency Naughty Nibble
'To Sin with Scandal' due out Dec 27th with Noble.

And Heather Boyd has a copy of her erotic Regency Novella
'One Wicked Night' up for grabs.

Join the loop and have some fun!

We'd love to see you there.

Heads Up - Final Blog Party Post - Monday 20th December with Mary Abshire

2010-12-16T08:59:00.003+10:30

To celebrate the upcoming release of my Regency Historical Naughty Nibble on the 27th December, I'm having a Blog Party!

Please come over and say hello...You never know, you may win something fabulous! Like a book ;)

20th December - Mary Abshire

Drop in and say hello to Mary who is celebrating the release of her first published Novel with Noble Romance Publishing

Claiming the Evil Dead

A Paranormal Urban Fantasy Romance

Apologies for the cover not being available at this time. Stay tuned...

One lucky commenter will receive a copy of Claiming the Evil Dead in e-book format. Hope to see you Monday.

Good Luck!

Noble Romance Christmas Party 18th December

2010-12-14T22:46:00.001+10:30

Mark your calendars - December 18th is the day of the Noble Romance Authors Christmas Party. We are inviting readers to come join us for a day long chat. New authors will be leading the chat each hour and there will presents galore for everyone. It's our way of thanking readers for making 2010 so wonderful. Please save the date and stop on by. More details will follow...

Sarah Ballance - Run to You

2010-12-13T06:00:00.016+10:30

Please welcome Sarah Ballance to my month long blog party, celebrating my Regency Naughty Nibble 'To Sin with Scandal' due out December 27. Sarah's book, RUN TO YOU is released today with Noble Romance Publishing. Congrats! So glad to have you here, Sarah!!!

Run to You is your second novel released by Noble Romance Publishing. Congratulations!!! Can you tell us how long it took you to write, edit and submit your manuscript? And what led you to write in the romantic suspense genre? Aw, thank you! I am beyond excited about this story. I absolutely love reading romantic suspense, and it didn't take long to get the itch to write one. I started RUN TO YOU last fall and it took me about six months to write the first draft. I was pregnant (after having my tubes tied) with my sixth child (yes, I did say six) and so, so sick – all day long, and for most of my pregnancy. When I did finish the manuscript I more or less collapsed on the computer and didn't edit for weeks. I felt like such a schmuck! Meanwhile, I had my baby girl and a couple of weeks after she was born my first book released on June 7. Eventually I got on the proverbial ball with edits, submitted, and received my contract from Noble 13 months after I wrote the first word of RUN TO YOU.

Can you tell us a little more about the book? After a bad breakup, my heroine just wants to get away from it all. The opportunity comes at the hands of her ex-lover, and although she's still attracted to him, time and circumstance insist they keep things on a friendship level ... at least for her. He's neither concerned with those circumstances, nor is he at all convinced they can't be together. Needless to say, the tension between them – romantic or otherwise – causes a few fireworks, but none so great as when her vacation fling with the local sheriff turns into far more than any of them bargained for.

How much fun did you have writing this book, or were there times when you wanted to throw up your hands and walk away? I deeply enjoyed the process with this one. My voice grew quite a bit from my first novel, almost so I felt like a new writer. Aside of the obvious difference – my first a romance, this a romantic suspense – with the second, I found myself able to shed the confines of doing it "right" and really just have fun with the story. Let's face it ... between the unexpected pregnancy and the all-day "morning sickness" for well over 25 weeks, I wasn't going anywhere without a sense of humor, and I found a lot of solace in the written world. Unlike my real one, I had *some* control over it!

For those writers out there reading this and trying to break into publication, what advice would you give them? First, read what you want to write. I refuse to admit how many suspense novels I read while writing RUN TO YOU, but suffice to say I could have written two or three more novels if I'd spent less time reading and more time writing! Second, find a critique partner you trust. It's probably harder than finding a good spouse, LOL, but it's essential for your own growth as a writer. A good crit partner can offer fair criticism without trying to change your voice, and s/he won't try to rewrite your story to suit personal taste. But as much as we all love praise, if a critter can't find anything wrong with your words, s/he's not looking hard enough! When you find someone who can help you make YOUR story the best it can be, hang on tight. That relationship is priceless!

Are you apart of any writing or critique groups? Would you recommend aspiring authors to join organisations like the ones you mentioned? And how have they helped you to succeed and become a published author? I have a wonderful crit partner who has been there from the beginning, and if not for her gentle prodding I wouldn't have my first contract, let alone the second. (She gave up the gentle prodding a long time ago ... as I grew as a writer she traded those kid gloves for meat hooks and I LOVE her for it!) I've always been really shy about putting my work "out there" so I haven't taken the plunge on a crit group. I'm a wimp ... I admit it!

What's next for Sarah Ballance? I'm working on two novels. I didn't plan it that way, but the second of the two wouldn't leave me alone so I'm playing along, LOL. The first is a romance with suspenseful elements, and frankly, it gives ME the creeps. It's a sexy contemporary, but revisits a strand of American history known for leaching over into the present – often in frightening, unsettling ways. I hope to have it finished by the end of January, but with the intrusion of the second story – a gritty romantic suspense – there's no telling what will happen. I'm so excited about both of them, and just truly alive with the process of creation. It's amazing, but it's also an honor to be able to tell the stories.

Final words? Thank you so much for having me! I'm excited to have the chance to visit with a fellow Noble Romance author and look forward to getting to know your readers through their comments. I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have – even personal ones! (Aren't they the most fun? LOL!) By the way, I'm having a GREAT contest to celebrate the release of RUN TO YOU. Grab your copy and head over to my blog for details ... one reader will win $25 on December 20th!

BLURB:

RUN TO YOU

Mattie James can’t pinpoint exactly when she lost control of her life, but the moment she decided to take it back made the front page of the local paper. Desperate to dodge the fallout – and the tabloids – she jumps at the chance to spend an off-season week in a tiny resort community by the sea. Making the trip with her ex-lover is a complication she can live with; coming face to face with a dead woman is not.

The last thing Sheriff Wyatt Reed expected to find on the storm-ravaged beach was a beautiful blonde with a jealous sidekick, but one look at Mattie left him wanting more. Their first date takes an ominous turn when he gets the call that a woman was found murdered. With a killer on the loose and a troubling lack of suspects or motive, Wyatt has to put his feelings aside to focus on the case. But his vow not to become personally involved is shattered when he discovers Mattie’s life is on the line, and this time the truth leaves her with a deadly choice . . . and nowhere to run.

Thank you, for joining me today, Sarah, and may I wish you all the best with your future writing career. RUN TO YOU sounds like a great read, can't wait to read it myself. Sarah has been kind enough to say she will drop in over the day and reply to any questions you may ask, so feel free to chat, we welcome all comments. You can find out more about Sarah Ballance, and her book(s) and works in progress on her blog and website. To Purchase RUN TO YOU please visit Noble Romance Publishing.

WIN A COPY OF RUN TO YOU

Yes, you read that right. To win a e-book copy of RUN TO YOU please supply the answer to the following question. (Answer can be found in the blurb). Sheriff Wyatt Reed meets Mattie James on a storm ravaged beach. What does Wyatt term Mattie's ex-lover as? One lucky guest will be pulled from a hat and Sarah will forward you a copy of her book.

Good Luck!

And the winner is...Bronwyn Stuart!!!!
Congratulations!!!!
Sarah will forward you a copy of RUN TO YOU later today.
Enjoy!

Heads Up - Blog Party Monday 13th December with Sarah Ballance

2010-12-07T13:55:00.003+10:30

To celebrate the upcoming release of my Regency Historical Naughty Nibble on the 27th December, I'm having a Blog Party!

Please come over and say hello...You never know, you may win something fabulous! Like a book ;)

13th December - Sarah Ballance

Drop in and say hello to Sarah who is celebrating the release of her second published novel with Noble Romance Publishing

Run to You

One lucky commenter will receive a copy of Run to You in e-book format. Hope to see you Monday.

Good Luck!

H.C. Brown - Flogger Holiday Anthology

2010-12-06T06:00:00.010+10:30

Please welcome H.C. Brown to my month long blog party, celebrating my Regency Naughty Nibble 'To Sin with Scandal' due out December 27 with Noble Romance Publishing.

H.C. Brown's book, 'Flogger Holiday Anthology' is scheduled for release December 20. So glad to have you here, Heather!!!

Flogger’s Holiday Anthology is an anthology with yourself and Noble Romance writer Stormy Glenn. Can you tell us what was involved or needed to be covered in your story for the anthology to work? First, I must say it’s great to have another story published by Noble Romance. I loved working with Stormy again, she is such an inspiration. It seems we both have the same yen when it comes to writing about men or better still - two or three men. *wink*

Flogger is a gay BDSM club. Both stories are stand alone, delicious, erotic, love stories. They are based around two alpha male Doms and a slave auction at Floggers.

Can you tell us a little more about the book? My story is Dominate Me. My Dom is a tortured alpha by the name of Nash Mage. His sub, Damien, walked out and left Nash a dangerous and angry man. He is living on the edge. Nash needs a sweet sub to turn his life around, beneath his ‘bad boy’ image he is a Dom looking for love.

How much fun did you have writing this book, or were there times when you wanted to throw up your hands and walk away? This is my first contemporary BDSM book. I enjoyed telling this story. It was exciting to be inside the head of Nash Mage. I am in the process of writing more highly sensual BDSM. My next one is M/F but I will be writing another M/M BDSM very soon.

For those writers out there reading this and trying to break into publication, what advice would you give them? Never give up. We all get rejections. Saying to you that you should keep writing while you wait is good advice but to be honest, I can’t write a word during the submission process.

Did I get upset when I got a rejection- damn right I did—I’m only human. I put that story away and forgot about it, then started another one straight away.

Getting that first story published and continuing have your stories published is a lot of work. Learn from rejections, learn your craft and most importantly make sure you follow the submission guidelines.

Are you apart of any writing or critique groups? Would you recommend other aspiring authors to join organisations like the ones you mentioned? And how have they helped you to succeed and become a published author? I’m a member of RWA. I have manuscript readers who are not authors and critique partners. It’s a two way deal with CP’s we help each other improve our work. I need my manuscript readers because they give me important feedback. All these people contribute to becoming successful. Another thing, never be afraid to let your imagination gain wings and fly. Write from the heart and it will show in your work.

What's next for H.C. Brown?

These are in the final stages.

Shifters and Demons - A new Pride of shifters for Noble Romance.

Make Me, Break Me, Love Me - A BDSM, Sci-Fi, M/F

Flashover- A Sequel to BURN - Sizzling Aussie Firemen

Nox - Book 2 Chronicles of Fae

Book 4 - Pride Brothers Series- Hawke

BLURB(S):

Dominate Me by H.C. Brown

Nash Mage, a six five, leather clad ball of muscle, is living on the edge. Damien, his control freak of a sub, left without a word. Teetering on the bounds of control Nash’s BDSM world begins to disintegrate. He wants what every Dom craves, a sweet innocent sub he can train to fulfill his every desire.

When Paul Martin enters Flogger's Holiday Auction looking for his first BDSM experience, Nash thinks all his Christmases have come at once. Young, barely legal with a slight build, Paul is just the way he likes his subs. Nash wants this delicious man with a passion—so do the other Doms. If Nash secures the winning bid on Paul at the Floggers Auction, will he get to keep his prize?

Hot Dom, Cold Sub by Stormy Glenn

Rafe, a very serious Dom, wants Danny the minute he spots the sexy little man dancing at Club Flogger. Rafe is used to getting what and who he wants.

When Danny refuses, it sends Rafe into a whirlwind of arousal and confusion, especially since he knows the little submissive is interested.

Can a Christmas auction give Rafe what he needs or will it leave him wanting more?

____________________________

Thank you, for joining me today, Heather, and may I wish you all the best with your future writing career. Flogger Holiday Anthology sounds like a great read, can't wait to read it myself. Heather has been kind enough to say she will drop in over the day and reply to any questions you may ask, so feel free to chat, we welcome all comments. You can find out more about H.C. Brown, her book(s) and works in progress on her blog. To Purchase Flogger Holiday Anthology please visit Noble Romance Publishing.

WIN A COPY OF FLOGGER HOLIDAY ANTHOLOGY

(Unfortunately at this time we are unable to supply the book cover for Flogger Holiday Anthology - sincerest apologies for any inconvenience this may cause)

Yes, you read that right. To win a e-book copy of Flogger Holiday Anthology please supply the answer to the following question. (Answer can be found in the 'Dominate Me' blurb). What sort of sub does Nash Mage crave? One lucky winner will be pulled from a hat and H.C. Brown will forward you a copy of her book or you may choose from any of her previously published books with Noble Romance Publishing.

Good Luck!

And the winner is...Serena Tatti!!!!
Congratulations!!!!
Heather will forward you a copy of Flogger Holiday Anthology after its release date.
Enjoy!

Noble Romance Christmas Party 18th Dec!

2010-12-03T18:08:00.005+10:30

Heads Up - Blog Party Monday 6th December with H.C. Brown

2010-12-01T00:18:00.000+10:30

To celebrate the upcoming release of my Regency Historical Naughty Nibble on the 27th December, I'm having a Blog Party! Please come over and say hello...You never know, you may win something fabulous! Like a book ;)

6th December - H.C. Brown

Drop in and say hello to Heather who is celebrating the upcoming release of her Flogger Holiday Anthology with Noble Romance Publishing.

Dominate Me
by H.C. Brown
&
Hot Dom/Cold Sub
by Stormy Glenn

One lucky commenter will receive a copy of Flogger Holiday Anthology or their choice from any of H.C. Brown's backlist of books from Noble Romance. Hope to see you Monday.

Good Luck!

Heather Boyd - One Wicked Night

2010-11-29T07:00:00.029+10:30

Please welcome Heather Boyd to my month long blog party, celebrating my Regency Naughty Nibble 'To Sin with Scandal' due out late next month with Noble Romance Publishing.

Heathers book, 'One Wicked Night' will soon be available in print! So glad to have you here, Heather!!!

One Wicked Night is your first published novel released by Noble Romance Publishing in April of this year. Belated congratulations to you!!! Can you tell us how long it took you to write, edit and submit your manuscript? And what led you to write historical romance in the regency era? At the time I wrote One Wicked Night I didn’t keep a daily writing diary so this is rough. I know I opened the file in July 2009—between working on longer projects—and began submitting by September that year. After a rejection and a long chat with a critique partner I made some changes, lengthening the sex scenes to their current shape. I submitted to Noble by the end of 2009. All up, from first word to contract, a little over seven months.

Unlike a lot of writers, I’m fairly new to fiction writing. In my former life I worked in Financial Planning, constructing dry analytical documents five days a week. When I became unexpectedly redundant at work, I changed jobs and opened a second-hand bookshop. I spent a lot of time reading the stock, but regency historical romance made me laugh out loud the most so that’s what I began writing.

Can you tell us a little more about the book?

For one wicked night . . . .

Benedict Abernathy, an untitled and wealthy gentleman visiting London, is heartily sick of his celibate existence. Determined to leave his shattered heart behind and move on with his life, he accepts an invitation for a night of debauchery in the arms of London’s infamous courtesan, Lottie Townsend.

. . . . she will indulge his every desire.

Lady Charlotte Goodchild has fallen far from privilege and longs for one night of pleasure with the man she loves. But Benedict must be spared the truth of her ruin at all costs. Posing as Lottie Townsend, a notoriously discriminating courtesan and old friend, she disguises her identity and invites Benedict to share the night of passion that fate denied them.

How much fun did you have writing this book, or were there times when you wanted to throw up your hands and walk away? I had a blast writing this story. Up until One Wicked Night all my heroines had been virginal proper girls trying their best to fit in. With Charlotte I didn’t even try. I had twenty-four hours of storytelling time to let her have her wicked way with Benedict. I’m quite proud of my adventurous girl.

For those writers out there reading this and trying to break into publication, what advice would you give them? I always glance behind me with these questions. LOL.

• Write often, be very open to advice, and at least consider that advice might have some merit.

• Embrace change. The publishing industry is evolving rapidly and you need to keep your ear to the ground.

• Learn about contract law. As a starting point, visit the Pub Rants blog for more information.

• Keep writing and submitting.

What have you found it like being a part of the Noble Romance family? Is it as supportive as we all hear it is? And I understand your book will soon be available in print format? Can you tell us a little more about this? Noble continues to impress me. Our senior editor, Jill Noble, is very hands on, extremely professional, and keeps her authors well informed. The changes that are coming for the business are awesome. New website with more customer focused features, a second website for the upcoming Young Adult line. All new books will soon be in print (just after e-book release) and the backlist of previously released titles will come out in print over the next twelve months. At this stage, my One Wicked Night comes out next December (2011).

Are you part of any writing or critique groups? Would you recommend aspiring authors to join organisations like the ones you mentioned? And how have they helped you to succeed and become a published author? I would be so lost without the daily contact of my critique group. LOL. At the moment, we have about ten active members in our online Historical Romance Critique group. (I know it sounds a lot, but not everyone critiques every person’s chapters of every book.) We’ve become great friends and I’m so looking forward to seeing them again at the 2011 RWA conference in New York. They are an invaluable source of support and information.

What's next for Heather Boyd? Have you anything out on submission at the moment? Well, I’m always writing and submitting stories so hopefully I will have some good news to share soon. I’m currently editing a novella length regency romance with a cougar relationship (gotta love a young man with stamina), and I’ve just begun work on the first of four books, tentatively titled the Noble Widows War series set around an infant duke’s family. Busy, busy, busy.

Thank you, for joining me today, Heather, and may I wish you all the best with your future writing career. I've read One Wicked Night and loved it, so I'm especially looking forward to reading your future works. Heather has been kind enough to say she will drop in over the day and reply to any questions you may ask, so feel free to chat, we welcome all comments.

To find out more about Heather Boyd please stop by her website to read an excerpt and free short story. Heather also blogs at LadyScribes and her own personal blog. She's on twitter (@heather_boyd) and uses Goodreads.com to keep track of her romance books. To purchase One Wicked Night please visit Noble Romance Publishing.

WIN A COPY OF ONE WICKED NIGHT!

Yes, you read that right. To win a e-book copy of One Wicked Night please supply the answer to the following question. (Answer can be found in the blurb). What sort of gentleman is Benedict Abernathy? One lucky winner will be pulled from a hat and Heather will forward you a copy of One Wicked Night.

Good Luck!

And the winner is...Maree Anderson!!!!
Congratulations!!!!
Heather will forward you a copy of One Wicked Night later today.
Enjoy!

Heads Up - Blog Party Monday 29th November with Heather Boyd!

2010-11-23T06:00:00.004+10:30

To celebrate the upcoming release of my Regency Historical Naughty Nibble on the 27th December, I'm having a Blog Party!

Please come over and say hello...You never know, you may win something fabulous! Like a book ;)

29th November - Heather Boyd

Drop in and say hello to Heather who is celebrating the upcoming release of her first novel with Noble Romance Publishing in print format.

One Wicked Night

An Erotic Regency Historical Romance

One lucky commenter will receive a copy of One Wicked Night in e-book format. Hope to see you Monday.

Good Luck!

Jess Anastasi - Sanctuary

2010-11-22T07:00:00.003+10:30

Please welcome Jess Anastasi to my first blog party, celebrating our new releases with Noble Romance Publishing. So glad to have you here, Jess!!!

Now, Sanctuary is your first book and is released today with Noble Romance Publishing. Congratulations!!! Can you tell us how long it took you to write, edit and submit your manuscript? And what led you to write in the paranormal, sci-fi genre? Sanctuary is only novella length at 30,000 words and I wrote it in about 3 weeks in November last year (how's that for poetic, exactly 12 months later, its being released!). While I was doing industry blog rounds one day, I saw a publisher asking for angel/demon based stories and the idea kind of just hit me, I wanted to write about angels and demons, but put them in spaceships. Seems kind of silly saying it that way! I didn't write it with the intention of submitting it anywhere and I only kept it short because I honestly thought "who the heck is going to publish a cross-genre of sci-fi and paranormal romance?" I wanted to see how quickly I could bring it together, hence writing 30,000 words in three weeks. I then edited it on and off with the help of my wonderful crit partner Chelle, who told me numerous time she thought there was something special about it, and that I should find somewhere to submit it. And yes, Chelle, I can still hear you saying "I told you so!"

I 'met' Jill Noble during the Clayton's Conference I did this year, since I couldn't make the conference in Coogee. I missed the initial pitch session because I thought Noble only published erotica (which, they once did) but they'd recently moved into publishing all romance levels of heat. During the Q&A session with Jill, she said if anyone had something they wanted to submit, to send a query letter and first three chapters to their general submissions email and mention we'd been involved with Clayton's. She'd also said that sci-fi and paranormal tended to be big sellers for them. I checked out their website, found their slogan is 'dare to be different!' and that they were looking for stories that were completely different or mixes of sub-genre. I didn't have a second thought about submitting Sanctuary to them.

Can you tell us a little about the book? It's set 500 years in the future. Humans have colonized other galaxies, but are on the verge of being wiped out by an on-going four-hundred year war between angels and demons. The heroine, Tori, sees something she's not meant to, so the demons are after her for information. The angels send the hero, A'albiel, to protect her. They're fleeing to Sanctuary, a planet protected by ancient pacts, and along the way they find danger and romance.

Oh wow, Jess, what an amazing idea, it sounds great! So tell us, how much fun did you have writing this book, or were there times when you wanted to throw up your hands and walk away? I had a great time writing this book! I think it was because it was just so out-there idea wise, I didn't feel I had to restrict myself in any way. I didn't once feel like I wanted to chuck it, though I have been there and felt that with other projects.

I'm sure there are a lot of us who'd agree with that. Now, for those writers out there reading this and trying to break into publication, what advice would you give them? Oh my god, I always dreaded being asked this question! I know as an aspiring author, you're looking for that magic formula that will get you a publishing contract. Unfortunately I can't tell you anything that hasn't been said before. The best thing to do is study the craft, sharpen your skills, be determined to succeed, and persist through all those rejections. It took me 9 years to get here and when people ask me how I kept going for all that time, I usually just tell them I'm stubborn to the point of being stupid. I couldn't foresee any other outcome besides getting published, no matter how many years it took.

Great advice. So, are you a member of any writing or critique groups? And how have they helped you to succeed and become a published author? I have to say that most of my experiences with crit groups were short lived and not always pleasant. But, then I've met a lot of lovely RWA members (well, not 'met' as such, but gotten to know via the web) and managed to stumble across Chelle. Or should I say, she found me. And next thing I knew, I had this wonderful crit partner. I suppose it's kind of like dating to find a husband… when you find the right one, everything just clicks and makes life easier.

Well, not always easier, sometimes you argue, sometimes you agree, sometimes agree to disagree. There's lots of support and encouragement going on. So I have to say, there's no doubt finding a crit partner was the last piece of the puzzle I needed to get my publishing contract. I would definitely recommend finding a group or partner that is right for you, that will help you move forward with your career. (I just have to add that when I told Chelle I'd compared her to having a husband she said "actually we are worse, 'cause a hubby will be very tactful when you ask 'does my bum look big in this?' He'll say 'no, darling…' Your crit partner would say 'what in hell were you thinking?'"

Haha, so very true. Now, what's next for Jess Anastasi? At the moment, I'm working on the second book to Sanctuary, (working title as of now) called Severance. Some people might be glad to hear it's Alastor and Nakita's story. This year I wrote a straight sci-fi romance, which I'm shopping around to agents. I've had a bit of interest, but no love so far. So, keeping my fingers crossed I can sell that to an agent and mainstream publisher as well.

BLURB: SANCTUARY

For four hundred years, angels have been at war with demons while humans fight both, trying to survive. As world after world is destroyed by the conflict, there is a race to terra-form planets for colonization before mankind is wiped out altogether.

Toriane Cresol is part of a team leading the terra-forming charge. On assignment, she stumbles across a scribe and six warrior angels hiding sacred relics. Within a few hours she comes face to face with A’albiel, an angel sent by Archangel Michael to protect her from the demons, who want to know what she saw.

Ripped from her life, Tori is taken on a flight across the galaxy by A’albiel, their destination is Sanctuary, a planet protected by ancient pacts, and the only place the demons can’t get her. Though hate for angels and demons alike is ingrained deeply within her, Tori can’t fight the growing spark of attraction between her and A’albiel. Bit by bit, everything she once thought or believed is eroded away, replaced by the knowledge that if she and A’albiel don’t make it to Sanctuary, the entire fate of the universe could hang in the balance.

Thank you, for joining me today, Jess, and may I wish you all the best with your future writing career. Sanctuary sounds like a great read, can't wait to read it myself. Jess has been kind enough to say she will drop in over the day and reply to any questions you may ask, so feel free to chat, we welcome all comments. You can find more about Jess Anastasi and her book(s) and works in progress on her website or blog. To Purchase Sanctuary please visit Noble Romance Publishing.

WIN A COPY OF SANCTUARY:

Yes, you read that right. To win a e-book copy of Sanctuary please supply the answer to the following question. (Answer can be found in the blurb). What does Toriane stumble across when on assignment? One lucky winner will be pulled from a hat and Jess will forward you a copy of Sanctuary. Good Luck!

And the winner is . . . Sherry Miranda!!!! Congratulations!!!!

Jess will forward you a copy of Sanctuary later today.

Enjoy!

Heads Up - Blog Party Monday 22nd November with Jess Anastasi!

2010-11-15T13:36:00.003+10:30

To celebrate the upcoming release of my Regency Historical Naughty Nibble on the 27th December, I'm having a Blog Party!

Please come over and say hello... You never know, you may win something fabulous! Like a book ;)

22nd November - Jess Anastasi

Drop in and say hello to Jess who is celebrating the release of her first novel with Noble Romance Publishing

Sanctuary

A Paranormal Sci-Fi Sensual Romance

One lucky commenter will receive a copy of Sanctuary in e-book format. Hope to see you Monday.

Good luck!

Contract Signed!

2010-11-11T14:33:00.001+10:30

Well, I persevered, edited and nearly drove my cp Jo mad, but I did it. Today I signed a contract with Noble Romance Publishing for a Naughty Nibble, To Sin with Scandal. Three years, four ST manuscripts, and a short story I whipped up in two days and I finally have some success.

I'm so happy to have signed with Noble. A company that is growing stronger every day and already has a multitude of great writers. Hope I can live up to the Noble reader expectation. To finally see my name on a book, have my own ISBN number, I cannot tell you how exciting that is for me. I can't wait - literally.

Wanted to thank my hubby who liked this nibble in its first-draft form, *wink*. And of course all my friends, family and RWAus for their continual support and guidance. Couldn't have done it without you.

Thank you.
Tam

Making a list and checking it twice.

2010-11-03T23:09:00.000+10:30

Instead of blogging, I should be writing but alas, I'm so tired tonight I don't have the motivation. So I'm updating instead about what I've done and still to do in my writing life. Last month I posted about active steps I'm taking to become published. These are the latest developments.

STALI (RWAus Single Title & Loving It competition.) Entered and results due out mid Nov.
Emerald Award (RWAus Single Title ms competition.) Entered and received confirmation my entry was received and all okay today. :)
5DI (latest Hearts Talk notified the members early in the new year we can apply. I'm on the case.)
The Emily (entered and waiting on results. Not sure when I'll hear these.)
The Erotic Regency Short story procured some interest and I'm now waiting to hear from an e-publisher. *fingers crossed*
Risky Regency Critique Group is into its second month and going well. Yay!
Submitted my time-travel ms to five literary agents yesterday. Not that I expect much luck, I don't think anyone likes this genre atm. :(
NaNoWriMo. Yes I signed up and have added 4348 words to the wip. I'm happy and determined to, if not finish the book, be bloody well close to doing so by the end of the month. If anyone wants to add me as their buddy I'm under Tamara Gill.

That's the latest.
Wishing everyone well in competitions, submissions or Nano writing, whatever it may be.
Tam

When should the Hero walk through the door?

2010-10-28T14:46:00.001+10:30

There was a discussion the other day on an e-loop that I'm apart of, discussing when a hero should make an appearance in a manuscript? Hmmm. Good question.

For me, because I write single title, he sometimes won't show up for two or three chapters. And then contemporary writer friends have mentioned for their market, he needs to be there from the get go.

Now, this is all very well, but I read a book some weeks back, it was an historical medieval romance and it had me confused. Very confused.

The hero, and I'm not exaggerating, appeared at page 231 (chapter ten!) after the heroine had already married twice and both husbands had died.

Don't get me wrong, I liked the book and I finished it, but the second husband seemed really nice and I could see the relationship (if the author allowed) could blossom into a romance of the greatest kind, but she didn't. It was like she decided she didn't want this fella and chose another to come into play. I started to wonder if this would happen again. Would the bride out live this husband and another come along. And at first I really didn't like the hero she finally chose. It was a very confusing book and I'm still (obviously I'm writing about it) confused.

So, when do your hero's enter the stories you write. From the get go, or chapter ten. Or, for the readers out there, when do you like to see the hero appear in the books you buy. For me, I don't mind holding out a chapter or two, any more than that and I start to get concerned.

Happy reading and writing everyone.
Tam

S. 3804, The Combating Online Infringement and Counterfeits Act

2010-10-24T19:02:00.001+10:30

This is so important I had to place it on my blog. Please read the following and vote YES to this bill.

Please vote to protect the copyright of content creators (authors, musicians, artists, photographers, filmmkers etc) against piracy in the US. There is a VOTE function at the top of the page but a litany of truly shocking comments from people who believe it is their screwy constitutional right to get books, music, imagery, mov...ies a...nd artworks for free if they want it but that the content creators being paid for it is somehow unconstitutional. Go figure.

Please take a moment to vote YES to supporting the bill (vote button, top of the page). Takes about 2 seconds. The legislation itself is short but complex but closely tied to regulating only those sites whose purpose is for sharing, distribution or commercial excange of copyrighted material.

Click on the link below and vote.
Thank you!

http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/111_SN_3804.html?page=2#usercomments

Plans, Plans & More Plans.

2010-10-16T16:18:00.001+10:30

Been quite busy of late and I’ve decided I need to plan my writing future and have goals I need to meet. Some of which I’ve already taken steps toward achieving.

Recently I had a full request from a US agent, which I was ecstatic about since the ms I emailed to her finaled this year into the second round of the RWAus Emerald Award. Sadly she rejected it with minimal comments. I’m not the type of writer who will email an agent back and ask for further explaining. I just move on and hope for the best.

Sad to say, I’m not really getting anywhere. I need an agent so they can sub my book(s) to the publishers. I’m not willing to send them to publishers myself and gamble with their future. So I decided instead of wallowing in self doubt (which is what I did last week) I would take active steps to reach my publishing goal. This is my plan.

I’ve entered all RWAus contests with new and old manuscripts. The Emerald and STALI.

I will be entering the RWAus 5DI and praying that I receive a place for five days mentoring. I think I’m close but there is something that I’m obviously doing wrong. Hopefully if I land a place with the 5DI I might be able to figure out what I need to improve and fix the problem.

I plan on entering more US contests. I’ve already entered one, The Emily this year. Not sure when I’ll hear the results of this comp, but you have to be in it to win it, right?

Because I write Regency and of course Time Travel, which always includes historical settings, I joined the Beau Monde. By being a part of a group that has such unbelievable talent, I’ve already learnt a lot. The topics they discuss are great and the mind boggles at the knowledge some of these ladies have.

I wrote and subbed to Noble Romance a Regency Historical Naughty Nibble. They’ve received it and now I’m in the waiting stage. It was a fun short story to write and I really enjoyed it. With any luck so with they and they’ll publish it for me. *crossing fingers*

I also started a critique group for historical based romance writers. Happy to report we’re going along well and getting along fantastically (see last blog).

So this is the plan and I’m sticking to it. Perhaps some other agents may ask for some pages to read and sign me up. You never know. Stranger things have happened.

Happy writing everyone.

Tam

New Historical Critique Group - Members Wanted!!!

2010-10-01T14:49:00.000+09:30

I did it, I started a historical critique group. We launched yesterday, bright and sparkly and already have eight members. Very excited about it all, and I'm sure it will be a lot of fun.

Risky Regency Critique Group

The group's focus is on writers who may push the boundaries of 'proper' etiquette in the historical setting in which they write. So, the call has gone out to anyone who wishes to be apart of the fun to join up.

The group is looking for writers whose work may be dark, hot, time-travel, paranormal historical, or a delicious regency that is likely to combust into flames in the readers hands.

Here is the link if anyone is interested.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/RiskyRegencyCritGroup/

Let the critiquing begin.
Tam

My next read - Married by Morning - Lisa Kleypas

2010-09-24T19:29:00.000+09:30

I'm a huge fan or regency and historical fiction. And at the moment I find myself writing but not really prolific like I usually am. When this happens I know I need to read. So, that's what I'm doing. I love YouTube and always look to see what latest book trailers are there from my favourite writers. Just by watching this trailer, I bought the book. I love wit it novels, and this one looks to have plenty.

Enjoy.

Here we go again...

2010-09-18T15:34:00.000+09:30

Yes, its RWAus competition time again. Has it really been twelve months since I submitted my ms's into their first comp's ever. Well, I suppose it has been, and again this year I'll try my luck and see where it takes me.

I entered the RWA's Single (Title) and Loving it contest last year and was shocked speechless when a ms that I'd only just finished and hadn't edited *gasp* came in 9th overall. Being my first comp, I was stoked to come in at that place and the feedback was wonderful. And of course the majority of the feedback had lots of helpful tips that referred to me editing the ms. *blush*.

Which of course I did, and then entered it into another competition, the RWAus Emerald Award. I finaled into the second round this time, and was so excited because the full ms was read and critiqued by three judges. Their feedback has helped me find plot mistakes I hadn't noticed, showed me where I was telling *grin* and make the ms all the more tighter and hopefully a better read.

Nervously I'm also entering a ms that I wrote earlier this year. Its my first regency (no paranormal element of time-travel in it) to ever go before judges. This ms though has had a lot of editing. Not only through my wonderful cp, Jo but an online historical critique group I'm apart of. If a judge finds a mistake, I'll take my hat off to her.

So I'm wishing my two ms's good luck and everyone else who enters the RWAus STALI, Emerald, HM&B High Five, Selling Synopsis, First Kiss, Valerie Parv, First Kiss etc etc. I can't stress enough how entering in competitions where the feedback is constructive and ever helpful is a major step forward for aspiring writers like myself.

Tam
Who really needs to email her STALI entry to Karly.

Forbidden Blog Party!

2010-08-27T13:27:00.000+09:30

To help celebrate the release of Forbidden, Christina Phillips's debut Roman/Druid Ancient Historical Romance from Berkley Heat, she's holding a launch party with lots of amazing authors and fabulous giveaways! From the 1st to 6th September at http://christinaphillips.blogspot.com/
See you there!!!!

RWAus 2010 Conference

2010-08-18T17:15:00.000+09:30

Well, I'm back from my first Romance Writers of Australia conference, and all I have to say is, 'WOW'! Did I have a blast, you betcha. I enjoyed every second of being in Sydney and staying at the absolutely beautiful Crown Plaza, Coogee beach. It was very grand, to say the least.

Coogee Beach - Sydney

Due to the fact I flew into Sydney on Friday afternoon, instead of attending any workshops, I took myself off to the ARRA (Australian Romance Readers Association) book-signing event. Where I had a few star-struck moments with the authors who were present. Christine Wells, Kerri Arthur, Anna Campbell the list goes on. Needless to say, I spent too much money in there. Don't tell my hubby. ;)

Heather Boyd and Me

Friday night the RWA members kicked up their heels at the Harlequin Fantasy Island Cocktail Party. I joined in with the fun and dressed up as a flapper. Had a ball and met so many friends, I only knew up to then, online.

Sat I attended the agent/editor/pub panel. This was amazing and so insightful. It was really great to hear what these ladies had to say about the markets, what they were looking for and what they weren't. Could have listened to them all day. I did a workshop with Malanie Milbourne and had a light bulb moment all thanks to Pretty Woman. I'll never look at that movie again in the same way.

Sat arvo I sat in my second workshop with Nalini Singh. She was amazing and so knowledgeable about the paranormal genre. Although my paranormal leap is only as far as time-travel, it was great to hear a New York Times bestseller speak. And yes, I was a little star-struck for the whole 90minutes as well.

Anna Campbell & Me

To finish off Sat I went and attended an pub author chat on Historical Romance. What can I say, other than it was brilliant and topped off a great day. I just love listening to what people in the know have to say about the market I'm trying to crack into. They are insightful and always helpful, and such a pleasure to listen to.

Emerald Winner Alli Withers

Sat night was topped off with the RWAus awards dinner. The food was scrumptious and the company, again, just mind boggling. I had a blast and ended the night at the bar with friends. To say I had a ball was an understatement. It's just wonderful to be around people who have the same goals and likes as myself.

Just wanted to thank all the RWAus conference committee for a wonderful writers weekend. You blew my expectations out of the water. It all seemed to flow so easy for us delegates and we couldn't possibly thank you enough for all your hard work throughout the last twelve months.

Bring on Melbourne 2011!!!

Tam :)

Home Sweet Home

2010-07-25T17:10:00.002+09:30

As a historical writer I often spend hours pouring over the English National Trust site, or hired books from local libraries on historical architecture when I'm researching a novel. One of the best things I like about writing historical fiction is that I can pick and choose the great stately homes of England and make them my own. Because lets face it, I'll never own one myself.

Knowle House

In the first manuscript I ever wrote my hero's home was made up of two real homes situated in the UK. Knowle House in Kent and Wilton House in Wiltshire. I only used the exterior of Knowle house as its grey coloured stone was local to the county my novel was set. So I knew the building materials I described were correct. I also loved the sweeping lawns of Knowle and the deer that still run wild in the park. Just beautiful.

Wilton House

I used Wilton House for all interior ideas. Some of the fireplaces themselves are just magnificent and obviously I'm not the only one who thinks so, for numerous movies have been made there. Including a current favourite of mine, The Young Victoria.

Tintagel Castle

Now for my medieval manuscript I used Cumbria for my location and had to entirely make a castle - or two in fact - up, for my hero and heroine. Although after describing my castle almost perched on top of a cliff, with the sea its only friend, I did google to try and find if something similar did exist. I was lucky enough to find Tintagel Castle which is actually mentioned in my book. Again, just an amazing feat of brilliant architecture.

Petworth - West Sussex

Last but certainly not least, my current Regency series. If you could hear me now you would've heard my sigh of delight, as these books are my favourites so far. I've allowed myself to be extreme with details as the family are obscenely wealthy - children of a Duke in fact. I've set these books mainly in Surrey and West Sussex, two beautiful areas of England everyone - should they have the chance - visit. Now for the heroines home I've made up the estate myself, and I think, by previous research, have done a good job of it. I've also used a local town, Petworth in the story and an old coaching inn, The Angel Inn, that did in fact stand in 1806 when the book is based, and still stands today.

So what do you do to inspire your hero / heroines homes in your novels. Same as me, flip through pages and pages of grand estate photos and dream. Google or visit the English National Trust website. Or do you make up your homes with what you would've liked to live in given the period. Whatever you do, I'm sure you have just as much fun as me. Don't you just love history.

Off to dream...
Tam

June

2010-06-16T20:40:00.000+09:30

Short blog today as I'm busy adding the final touches to the second novel in my Penworth Series, a story about a Duke and his children. I'm doing the 50k in 30day challenge to finish this ms which I've done, but I'm short 7k. So I've decided to add some villain scenes into the mix. Love my villains.

Other news, I'm doing a final polish on my Emerald second round finalling ms so I can send it off to agents and see if anyone bites. Sigh, can only hope. I fell like I'm stuck where I am and need something, a contest final, a request anything to move me forward. In the mean time, I'm writing like mad and enjoying not having to write to a deadline. Although, I can't wait for that to end.

And on top of all the above, (if that wasn't enough), I started the third ms in the Penworth series. Hit the 3k mark yesterday which is a good start. Better than zero word count.

Happy writing everyone.

See you in July.

Tam :)

The Society of Thames Mudlarks

2010-05-25T19:05:00.000+09:30

A few years ago...okay eleven years ago I married my high-school sweetheart. And after much begging, cajoling and in the end telling, we went to London UK for our honeymoon. I’d always wanted to go, because who wouldn’t, (my husband for one) and enjoyed every second while we were there. I’ve now created a monster (husband) who’s the one always saying ‘we should go...’ and it’s me who now says ‘no!' All very funny but not really relevant to my post today...or is it.

While in England we did a tour with Trafalgar. Wonderful company and great tour guides. As they bussed us around the capital our noses plastered to the windows a story of a group of people made my ears prick up and take note. Not that I wasn’t already. Believe me I soaked up every aspect of that city and imprinted it on my brain permanently. Can you tell, I love London.

But, as I was saying, the tour guide said that there are a group of people called Mudlarks who search the banks of the Thames at low tide. Just another name which means a beachcomber who searches the mud at low tide for anything of value. I wanted to be one of them. Just the thought of digging in mud and maybe finding some lost treasure hundreds of years old sent my blood to...okay I’m starting to sound like a romance writer. But let’s just say I was excited. The tour guide went on to say that only a few permits were allowed each year and that they were a well sought after article. I could only agree, as I now wanted one, even though I lived in Australia.

Eventually we went home and continued on with our lives until one day only three years ago I started to write...romance novels with a twist - time travel. And what a better way than to send my heroine catapulting through the ages but by having her find a piece of jewellery long buried in the banks of the Thames. You’ve guessed it; my heroine is a Thames Mudlark. In fact they are actually called The Society of Thames Mudlarks. Anything they find they have a month before they must forward it to the Museum of London for cataloguing. After that time the item is returned to them, to either sell, (to the museum or elsewhere) or keep. The Port of London Authority issue the permits for them to fossick the ancient shores.

Although being a Mudlark today is for hobbyists and history lovers alike, back in the Industrial Revolution it was all that stood between starvation and food for some families. Should they find something, anything, a button even, it could be sold for food for them to eat. Most Mudlarks were widowed women and children. These poor souls had to deal with raw sewage and corpses of humans and animals that often washed up with the tide. Take the tower of London’s moat, need I say more on what a mess that was for a while. Not a very nice working environment for them, even if necessary.

So, a story told offhandedly years ago stuck and was the basis of the major turning point for my heroine in my manuscript. It’s true I suppose, that story’s evolve by events in our own lives. That, when we hear tales of the past we writers see a plot somewhere between the words. I certainly did and will continue to do so.

Perhaps one day if I’m lucky, The Society of Thames Mudlarks will make me an honorary member. I can only dream.

Tam

Sagging Middles & Other Stuff!

2010-05-06T19:38:00.001+09:30

Now, I'm not talking about needing to do sit-ups - although I'm sure that wouldn't go astray with me either. But what I'm talking about is the dreaded middle all ms have. The spot where the writer needs to keep the centre of the book moving forward, add tension and drama, but not just scenes that go nowhere and do nothing. Its a tricky maneuver that I myself am slowly plodding through. I'm bringing forward my secondary plot 'the villian' and making him do his thing. Adding tension which halts the course of love for my heroine and hero. And of course, they still have a lot of their own issues to deal with and work out, thanks to a mistake in their youth. So I think I'm getting there and correctly so. I'll get through it, and the ms will probably read a lot better than I currently think it does. Always a concern of mine. I just have to keep telling myself its a first draft.

On to other news, I didn't final into the top four this year for the RWAust Emerald Award. Poo to me, but my congratulations go out to the girls who did make it. I'm just stoked I made it past the first round. My aim next year is to make the second, or be published, whatever comes first. ;)

Wishing all mothers everywhere a 'Happy Mothers Day'.

Mine will be great. I'll be past the sagging middle by then.

Tam

To be accurate or not to be completely accurate, that is the question?

2010-04-29T21:24:00.003+09:30

As I 'm back to editing my second time travel manuscript, with the help of my fabulous cp, the question I asked above has cropped up a few times. I'm a writer of historical novels, now whether that be a regency, medieval whatever, I like to write about the past. And as I'm looking through these line edits, one question more than most, keeps raising its little head.

How accurate should we be with our historical novels?

Remembering that the books I write are fiction. Hmmmm. My writing process starts with a germ of an idea. I'm a panster writer so, off that one idea a book eventually forms. I also research as I go. My resource library is starting to look quite nice and Google is a godsend. So, can I tweak history just a little to let my characters have their story as I see it? Or should I stick to what is essentially, “historically correct”.

For instance: Trews - or as we now call them - Pants. Is it a Scottish term or did the English use it as well? Some clothing books on fashion through the ages use the term for both locations. So, what's right? Again, ???

Paintings - Middle ages for instance - I've been informed were mostly those of a religious bent. But in my story, I need a painting of the heroine’s parents. Will I get away with this, or will an agent or editor pick it up and say to change it. Again, ???

And then my hero in this particular book is a medieval Baron. I'm changing him gradually to someone readers will like and eventually love. But in "real life" would he have changed? Would he have aimed at a happily ever after in his marriage? Or would he have only cared his stomach was full as well as his coffers?

How far can we push history to bend it to what "we" would like to see and read? Books I realise have to be written historically correct. I get this, I do. The food they eat, how they eat it, dress, speech etc must be right. But can we tweak just a little the facts that don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things?

It’s a question I've been asking myself. We will see I guess.

Happy writing and researching.

Tam :)

The Dreaded Synopsis

2010-04-18T22:50:00.001+09:30

So over the last few months I've been arguing with a synopsis for a story of mine. Now, you would think this should be an easy thing to write, since I know the story inside and out. I know the characters, their conflicts etc etc. But as you have guessed, months and lots of drafts later...nothing, zilch, zero, bluh! I couldn't stand any of them.

I thought since the story started in my heroines pov so should the synopsis. So write, write, write away I did, and all I seemed to do was info dump. Boring even myself out of my mind. Now, since this ms finalled into the second round of the RWA Aust 'Emerald Award' I knew the story couldn't be bad all of a sudden, so why wouldn't the damn synopsis flop out onto the computer screen before me, complete and perfect.

Hmmmm. As I complained (as one does) to my friends on FB, a very talented friend of mine, who finalled in the RWA Aust 'Selling Synopsis' comp last year told me to look up a site of a published author who has placed her own example of a short synopsis on her website. My friend is a godsend.

It wasn't so much the synopsis and how she had explained what covered key points of the story, it was the fact the writer had started the synopsis off in the hero's pov. It got me to think, 'why couldn't I do that?'

So I did and guess what, it worked! Page after page flowed onto the computer screen before me. The book I love came to life and went from 90k to 1.5k. No more info dump or thinking I had to explain in more detail so they could understand further on in the synopsis. What a sigh of relief.

And there you have it. My second synopsis is done. Of course I'll tweak and tweak some more before sending it off to my cp, who will no doubt, pick up all my errors. But wow, who would have thought just changing the first paragraph to my hero's pov would have saved me from more grey hairs.

Which of course is only a temporary reprieve, before the next dreaded synopsis looms before me and I'll have to go through it all over again.

Happy writing.

Tam

WIP

2010-04-07T20:07:00.001+09:30

Have been busy working on my current wip, the 'Penworth Series' which is coming along nicely. These books are regency romances based in London in 1805. The stories are about the six children to the Duke of Penworth. And of course, their trials and tribulations along their path to love. Book one is already complete and awaiting an edit by me, then a final polish between me and my cp. Book five, my current wip is nearly at 20k and steaming ever upwards. I have to say, its a nice break from my time travel novels which I do adore, but having been writing, editing, polishing them over the last year and a half, I'm enjoying being away from the paranormal side of my brain.

Having said that, I am about to start a final polish on my RWA Emerald Award second round finalling ms 'Eternity in Time'. So I suppose my break from the strange was never going to be that long. I had a lot of fun writing this ms, a Medieval time travel and look forward to sending it out to agents and see what they think. There is nothing more fun than putting a smart independant 21st century woman in front of a medieval Baron and let the sparks fly. However, the only problem I have with sending out this ms, is the fact I have to write a synopsis. This word believe it or not, scares the bejeebers out of me. I'm a panster writer, so to have to sit down and write an outline is very strange notion indeed. Thus, Eternity in Time has three synopsis written and all of them I hate. My poor cp will no doubt curse me when I send my final draft through. :)

Happy writing.
Tam

Good Luck 'A Stolen Season'.

2010-03-31T20:47:00.003+10:30

As some of you know, an agent in NY requested my first novel and my favourite out of all of them back in Oct of last year. Now, at this time, and in all honesty, I thought it was ready for the big wide world. OMG how wrong was I. As I became more confident with my writing I decided to enter competitions. Sounds like a normal progression in this type of career. Well it was. But by doing so, I started to get feedback from these said competitions. All was good, don't get me wrong, they loved the story etc, but it seemed I had a few grammar rules to learn. hmmmm

During this entire time, A Stolen Season had been sitting in this agents inbox, waiting to be read. By January I couldn't stand the thought of her reading the story as it was. So...I took a gamble and emailed her. I asked, ok I practically begged, for her to take it out of her line-up so I could do some revisions (code for complete overhaul) and then email it back to her.

Lucky for me, she emailed me back that same day and with a very nice 'yes'. She told me I could resubit it to her when I was happy with the revisions. Needless to say, I buckled down and as of yesterday I finished.
Of course I'm worried about the odd spelling error, or that I've written something in the ms that I was supposed to remove later, but should that happen (and my God, I hope it doesn't) I hope the story is strong enough for her to look past such errors and offer to represent me as her agent.

So, for the time being, my work is done on this particular ms. I'm already back typing away on my Duke of Penworth books (Regency Romance Novels) and loving every minute of not having to edit the words I'm typing. I have to say, this is my favourite part of writing, getting the story down and creating that wonderful world only I can see. Well, at the moment anyway.

Happy Easter and writing everyone.

Tam.x

The End Of The Editing Road.

2010-03-27T16:43:00.000+10:30

Yes, finally the ms that I have been polishing over the last eight weeks is done. Which means that by Tuesday (with any luck) it will be winging its way to NY where if I'm lucky enough the agent who requested said ms will love it and offer to represent me. :)

It's been a long slog, but I have to say worth it, especially when you hold the story in your hands and know that at this stage (without the help of an editor) it's the best its going to get.

So good luck, 'A Stolen Season' may the Gods that decide, grant you their favour and allow you to shine in hardback. Preferably in a cover that's similar to Stephanie Laurens and Anna Campbells I'd be happy with. ;)

Happy writing everyone, which is what I'm now going to get back to. Yay!!!

Tam

Editing, Editing, Editing.

2010-03-16T21:16:00.002+10:30

So I thought this week since I'm editing and polishing a manuscript for an agent that I would talk about my experience over the last three years with editing my written work. Now as of yesterday I was not a fan, and cringed whenever anyone wrote the dreaded E word within my line of sight. But since (thanks to RWA Aust and their critique partner scheme) I've been lucky enough to find cp's who mesh with me. And because of that, my thoughts on the subject are starting to change.

I started writing three years ago. My first ms (the one I'm editing now) has come a long way since those first words were typed. In fact, just for fun I searched out the cd, which the original novel is saved on the other day to read. After a few chuckles, ok many laughs later, I had to congratulate myself to some extent. Because the bones of the story which make 'A Stolen Season' great, in my book (no pun intended) were there all those edited out words ago.

And let me tell you, many, many words have been edited out. Who as an avid reader of the romance genre knew words such a gerunds existed. I didn't until my cp pointed out I had a love affair with words that ended with ing. I've learnt to shorten my sentances and make my point more quickly (believe me I used to rattle on a bit and went really no where at all). Verbs, nouns, adverbs, adjectives, passive voice, showing not telling etc etc the list goes on and on. It's like I've gone back to school and learnt the basics of english all over again.

And thanks to my cp's, online courses and RWA Roadshows that travel to my home state of South Australia, I've learnt what all those edited words really need at the end of the day to work, and that's a great story. I've found that I no longer shy away from putting my hero or heroine in situations people in general would cringe from. I like to make trouble for them and see how they dig themselves out. I know not to sag in the middle but to create action. And now, I know how to write it. Had I submitted that first ms without the edits, rewrites and then more edits 'A Stolen Season' would have never seen the light of day. Which I think would have been a shame, because edits aside, its a great story.

So, my advise for anyone out there who writes and thinks first drafts will do, I'll tell you what a published author told me at a roadshow two years ago. 'Get that sucker out of the drawer, rework it till it shines and get it out there. How can you expect to be published when all it's doing is gathering dust.' And she was right in what she said. So I did get that ms out and let me tell you its starting to shine. And I won't settle until I see it on the shelf in hardback.

Happy writing everyone and of course editing. ;)

Tam

The Weekend That Was

2010-03-10T20:15:00.002+10:30

Only a short Blog from me this week, as not much has been happening that is really of any interest. As most Aussies know, SA had a public holiday Monday so a long weekend for us. It rained which was nice, but annoying for the kids. We did venture outdoors and walked Alligator Gorge that is not far from us, (half-hour or so by car). This was great, the kids loved the walk and with the rain the gorge dripped and puddles pooled. It was really pretty. On the Monday, other than catching up with friends and lazing the day away not much was achieved.

So...not a lot of writing or editing happened my end. I have buckled into it from Tues, and thanks to my cp's blistering speed, the polishing is coming along nicely. Why is it that after the millionth read through, fresh eyes always pick up what we've missed? But, we thank them for it ;) phew.

Once this book is gone and after a huge sigh of relief is expelled, I will buckle down a do a synopsis on my second novel, 'Eternity in Time' then it's onto my 'Penworth' series. I read through the first few chapters of this book the other night and have to say I love it. I'm itching to get back to it and I can't wait to write what I already know what happens. Squeeee, you can probably tell, I can't wait to write this book.

I'm off, kids and bedtime call.

Happy writing everyone.

Tam

Promotion for Unpublished Writers

2010-03-03T16:44:00.007+10:30

I'm inspired...

I received today my RWR from Romance Writers of America where they had a feature on 'Promotion tips for the unpublished writer'. I often wondered whether I was jumping the gun with my web site, blog, facebook page and twitter account. But, it would seem I was correct in moving forward in building up my name and getting it out there before the 'Call' actually happens. As of course it will!

Having said that, it seems I'm still to cover some aspects of my promotional badge. One in particular that caught my attention, customized letterheads. Now I havent done this, mostly due to the fact that agents whom I'm trying to break into do not allow attachments in their emails. Perhaps when I land said agent, I will purchase some stationary, but until then I think not. Not that I won't design it and have an awfully grand time doing so in the mean time. :) And of course, all of the above is just the tip of the iceberg. Career plans, marketing I haven't even thought of. But I will. I'll keep you posted.

On to other news. I have joined (finally) SARA South Australian Romance Authors in Adelaide. Only reason I haden't done so was due to the fact we currently live in rural South Australia. So as the latter will soon change I've joined and are looking forward to my first meeting in a couple of months. But before that happens, I'll be attending the 'Romancing The Novel Seminar' to be held by SARA in May. Anna Campbell and Yvonne Lindsay will be in attendance. Need I say more? I think not. Let the countdown begin.

I also registered for the Romance Writers of Australia 'Sun, Surf & Sizzle' Conference to be held in Sydney in August. Plane tickets are booked, just waiting on confirmation of accommodation and workshops I've registered for. To say I'm excited is an understatement. First conference. Wooo Hooo...

Back to a final polish on a ms an agent is waiting for. Then onto my new series the Penworth books.

Happy writing everyone.

Tam

BIAW

2010-02-24T09:06:00.004+10:30

So, I'm participating in BIAW (Book in a week) or in my case EBIAW (Edit book in a week) with my RWA Historical e-group. Monday went well, 22 pages edited. Tues, not so much. But I did have an excuse. I had my car serviced so I wasn't home at all. Then when I did finally get home, I had to reply to people who commented on RWA Aust Blog, as I was the featured writer for, 'The day in the life of...Tamara Gill.' Which by the way, was a lot of fun. Thanks RWA.

Now you would think after that I should have time to edit right. Wrong. I then had to pick up my son from school, come home, snacks then tea then clean up then showers. By the time they went to bed at 8.00pm, I sat down and edited my cp's work, which she is entering into the, 'Valerie Parv Award' run by RWA Aust. But today I will succeed. I'll get my quota + some that I need to make my weekly goal. And perhaps if I'm lucky, I'll get to watch some TV tonight. Or, perhaps not.

Happy writing.
Tam :)

A Day is the Writing Life of… Tamara Gill

2010-02-23T15:36:00.000+10:30

A Day is the Writing Life of… Tamara Gill

Deadlines

2010-02-17T13:39:00.002+10:30

Well, I can now officially say I've experienced my first deadline. As I finalled in the RWA Emerald Award 2nd Round, I've had to get the full ms edited, printed and postmarked by today. Happy to report, I've done as advised. But have a tension in my stomach, that's saying I've forgotten something. I don't think this is the case, and I bloody well hope not, or I'm in big trouble. LOL

So, I'm crossing all my fingers and toes for my entry. I hope the edits, which started in Nov are good enough to place the ms in the top three. Time will tell. Also, want to send out a huge thank you to my cp partner. Who pushed through Christmas and New Year to see the ms as polished as it possibly could be. Thanks NY, I owe you.

My next project is to finish off some edits on my first novel, A Stolen Season, which a literary agency in NY are waiting for. I pulled the ms out of their line up, to add some changes recommended by competition results. With any luck, I'll be able to email this wonderful literary agent by the weekend. Here's hoping.

Phew. Have to say, I'll be glad to see today go. Lack of sleep and pressure does not bode well on the body. But, don't we love it! chuckle.

Happy writing
Tam

RWA Australia Emerald Award 2010 Single Title

2010-02-10T22:02:00.005+10:30

I've finalled into the 2nd round of the Emmy. *enter screaming writer* I still cannot believe it! I'll admit it, I'm over the moon. My apologies go out to my family for driving them nuts over the last week since the category 2nd round final came out. *blush*
Thanks Deb and all the judges of the Emerald. You're all wonderful and hard working for RWA Australia. Mwah.
Congrats to my fellow finalists, let the games begin, hey. The next week will be bedlam for all of us, I'm sure.
Hugs to all the other entrants. I've been on that side of the line as well. Last week in fact. Chin up, see, good things do come to those who wait. Although in my case, an impatient wait.
I'm off to editing land. See you next Wednesday.
Tam.x

Competitions

2010-02-03T22:54:00.004+10:30

Well, next week we finally know who finaled in the RWA Emerald award for Single Title manuscripts. Most who know me in the writing community know I'm all but pulling my hair out with this comp. Will have to chuckle to myself if I don't progress through to second round. Onwards and upwards they say, LOL.

My congratulations go out to the Emerald Category second round finalists. Good luck with the final. Hope your ms are tweaked and ready to go and that fulls are requested from the final judge from Harlequin, when the time comes.

I entered two American competitions, mostly due to the feedback they supply and who is the final judge in each genre. North Texas Romance writers Great Expectations comp and the Yellow Rose Chapter, Winter Rose contest. You have to be in it, to win it. Right?

Short blog post today. As I'm finishing my edits on my Time Travel Medieval. Only a few pages to go. I'm so happy with this book. I've tried to up, the emotion level with my two characters. Hopefully I've been successful with this. The dreaded dark scene I tweaked tonight, was certainly very upsetting. Sad, but I hope to make people cry. That's the point, isn't it?

Both boys at school over the next two days. So book should be wrapped up and done by Friday. Well, until I tweak it again, in any case. About time to, as my characters from my Regency Penworth series are starting to bug me big time. Alright already, I'll be there soon.

Happy reading and writing.
Tam x

Schools Back

2010-01-27T10:05:00.004+10:30

So I sent my eldest son off to School today. Year 1, cannot believe it. My youngest starts Kindy tomorrow. No children at home will be strange. Someone mentioned the other day, it was time for another, then. Not for us, two is plenty and my third child has become the written word.

After much pain, well to be honest, lots of pain, my editing on my Emerald entry is almost done. Hopefully today I will receive some pages back from my cp, which will push me closer still to a completed ms. I'm looking to submit this book to agents come February. It's very different to my first Time Travel novel, and hopefully will spark some interest.

I'm sort of at a standstill in my writing career. Because I write single title ms, I cannot move unless I get an agent or editor interested in my work. Not to say I'm not trying, I am. But, gosh, its a long drawn out process. Patience is a virtue they tell me, *chuckle*.

I have some work out now in competitions. I think I've become a competition junkie to some extent. By end of Jan the RWA Australia Emerald Award, second round finalists will be notified. I'm hoping to be one of them. End of February The North Texas Romance Writers Great Expectations Competition finalists are notified. And finally I entered the Yellow Rose RWA, Winter Rose Competition. All comps give feedback, which is never a bad thing.

Back to the editing for me. Hope everyone here in Aust had a wonderful Aussie Day!
Happy writing.
Tam

Chase the Dream Writers Contest

2010-01-20T22:53:00.000+10:30

Here are week two's winners for Chase the Dream Writers Contest. Well done! My entry is in next weeks results so wishing myself luck. Don't forget, contest is free to enter. So why not have a go.

On a personal note, been editing like crazy getting my Emerald entry finished. Seem to be slowing down, not speeding up as I should be. School is back next week, and my youngest starts Kindy. Time does fly.

I have started to critique a friend's work. Really enjoyed doing this. I was a little concerned to critique anyone's writing, but it seems I've learnt a few things in the last few years and it gives you a nice feeling when you help. Even though, I know right at this moment she's cursing me. *chuckle*

Our home in the beautiful Barossa Valley is about to be built and a move will ensue in the next nine months. I'm getting a study all to myself, which I'm having made into a mini library. Antique desk and grandfather chair inc. I can't wait.

Happy writing everyone. Hopefully this time next week. My editing woes, will nearly be over. I can dream...right?

Tam

Chase the Dream Writers Contest

2010-01-14T13:12:00.001+10:30

Today I posted the winners for week one in the Chase the Dream Writers Contest run by two wonderful women, Leigh Michaels and Rachelle Chase. I entered the contest in week three, so still some time to pass before my entry is judged.

Such a great comp, which is free to enter.
Congratulations, and good luck, to all who participate and final.

Week 1 Mini-Critique Winner

2010-01-14T13:07:00.000+10:30

Chase the Dream Writers Contest Week 1 Results
Week 1 Mini-Critique Winner

Congratulations

Week 1 Finalist

2010-01-14T13:06:00.000+10:30

Chase the Dream Writers Contest Week 1 Result
Week 1 Finalist

Congratulations

Moved to Blogger Blogs

2010-01-12T20:41:00.000+10:30

Just a quick one, to let everyone know I've moved my blog to Google Blogger. Just because it gives me more options than my website does. Off to edit my Emerald entry now. Deadline looms.

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog

2010-01-08T19:42:00.000+10:30

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog: "So, the New Year is up and running and so far I've kept on track. Between me and my cp partner my Emerald entry is coming together nicely. No doubt I'll tweek and tweek and probably tweek some more before I submit to agent. But as it stands, I'm happy with it. My mum, loves it. LOL

I've added a Calendar to my website. It shows when contests are up and winners announced. Contests that I've entered anyway. Just a little bit more fun for me ;)

Just a short, ok, very short blog today, as I'm upto chapter 9 and on a roll. I'm anxious to finish the edits, so I can get back to my Penworth series. Book three is growing every day in my head. Not to mention book two my current WIP which is screaming at me.

All fun. Have to love being a writer. I do.
May the muse be with you.
Tam"

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog

2010-01-01T19:41:00.000+10:30

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog: "In April RWA Australia have me up for an Author Blog Bite. This should be fun, and will allow fellow RWA members to learn a little more about me. April 23rd is my date, so drop in and say hello.

So lots to do, and only 12 months to do it in. Besides my writing life, my family's life is also looking to be just as busy. New home to build in the Barossa, selling of old one in the country. New schools for my two boys. Joining SARA in Adelaide. LOTS, LOTS, LOTS. And loving every moment of it. I must thrive on stressful situations. LOL.

Hope everyone had a safe and happy New Year. We certainlly did, relaxing down in the lovely Naracoorte.

Until next time, happy writing.
Tam"

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog

2010-01-01T19:40:00.000+10:30

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog: "So, it's a New Year and for the first time I'm making a resolution.

My aim for the year is to land an Agent.

I'm going to edit A Stolen Season, send it to my cp partner and then resubmit. At this time it's still out on submission, however should I get a decline to offer representation, I'll get more feedback before submitting again. A long shot, but, I also entered this ms in the RWA America, Golden Heart Award. Have to be in it to win it...right? We'll see...

My second novel, Eternity in Time, which is under final edits now, I'm going to start submitting to Agents, very soon. So that will mean a synopsis will have to be written (not favourable in my book) and a query letter. This novel, I've also entered it in the RWA Australia Emerald Award and the North Texas Romance Writers of America, 2010 Great Expectations Competition.

My Penworth Series is also coming along nicely. Isolde (book 1) is finished and will require final edits before I'm ready to let it out into the world. Beth (book 5) is my current WIP, and had not Christmas and New Year happened, would have taken up most of my time. This book so far, has been fun to write, and I'm enjoying it immensely. I'm hopeful by June both these books would have had final edits and be ready for the RWA Australia STALI competiton, which opens in August."

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog

2009-12-22T19:37:00.000+10:30

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog: "So this will be my final post for 2009, as just like most people, Christmas and holidays are upon us. We're off to the beach on Sunday, then down to the South East of SA for a mini break, after that.
Presents are bought, now all I have to do is wrap the suckers. ;)
Hope 2010 is a good year for all.
Ho, ho, ho.
Tam.x"

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog

2009-12-18T19:36:00.000+10:30

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog: "Received my contest confirmation back today for 2010 Great Expectations Contest, run by The North Texas Romance Writers of America. Stated in my email to send the word out to all my writing buddies, that entries close Dec 30th. Submission is online and payment for international entrants through PayPal.
Good luck! :)"

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog

2009-12-16T19:32:00.000+10:30

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog: "So, over the last days, I've been editing my website and I'm pretty happy, with what I have now. I'm going to add some book blurbs over the next few days, then I'm not touching this site again!!! Promise ;)
Book wise, just submitted some pages to my cp partner. Slowly getting through my chapter edits. A very slow process due to having, two very active little boys at home.
I've also entered the 2010 Great Expectations Contest, run by The North Texas Romance Writers of America. So all in all, very busy, and growing quite fond of blogs.
Happy Holidays.
Tamara"

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog

2009-12-14T19:30:00.000+10:30

Tamara Gill - Romance Author - Blog: "Congratulations to me, I have a website. Now, what to write. Well, as Christmas is looming, I'm off shopping on Friday for my two boys. Should be interesting, as they have asked for everything under the sun.
I'm currently busy editing a manuscript I've entered in the Emerald, and waiting to hear back from an agent, who requested a full.
I will blog again, when I have something more to say.
Merry Christmas.
Tam.xx"