Just returned from our Albuquerque Adventure in New Mexico Tuesday evening, Oct. 23. The Women Writing the West (WWW) Writer's Conference was held in a huge hotel Oct. 19 to 21. Because there were several conferences going on in tandem at this hotel, we had a room down the street in the Rio Grande Best Western. Both were within walking distance of "Old Town," the origin of Albuquerque 200 years ago.
(Population today is half a million.) On two different days we roamed the streets of Old Town, contributing to the economy of this historic real estate. I think the highlight here was an outdoor cafe with a daily special of homemade apple dumplings and ice cream. We enjoyed the sunshine (70's every day) and the company of a pigeon which bobbed and tootled around the tables like he was on a mission.
The last WC I attended was about 30 yrs. ago in Rochester with such "promising" author/speakers as Jon Hassler, and Judith Guest. My 2012 WWW Conference was brightened by the location, the smart women, the friendly connections and the information I gleaned in pursuit of publication. Electronics, economics and ebooks are definitely driving the Industry today. One publisher wants me to send her my novel, but I have reservations after "vetting" her requirements which tend toward shorter, G-rated books.
The Calling Stone has some graphic history and a love story that would rattle any G rating. Not erotica, but maybe a few pulse-pounders that could be compared to some of my current favorite author's fictional love scenes. If you love historicals-which I learned were "on the rise"-- you might like Diana Gabaldon's Outlander books. SHE writes very dense, very long books--1000 pages average. I was told my book was too long-- maybe 2 books--though I am not at 1000 pages. Lots to consider!? Glad to be home again in a cooler, wetter climate that gives me no regrets for staying inside to read and write!
Sounds like you had a good time.
ReplyDeleteThese conferences are really valuable.