Sunday, April 29, 2012

Getting Connected with the Writing Community

Way back when, when I first ventured into the world of writing, I knew I needed a guide. A mentor, if you will. How did I know this? Well, it's a simple rule of business to surround yourself with like-minded people. And so I went on my quest to find writer friends.

The first place I searched was twitter and google. Lo and behold, I found Mary Lindsey. We live in the same city, both have legal backgrounds, both write paranormal. It was a perfect match! I emailed her right away, she responded right away, and we met for lunch. I can't tell you how much she helped me improve my craft and how she integrated me into the Houston writing community. I am so glad I found her!

Mary introduced me to Jessica Capelle and Iona McAvoy- more up-and-coming Houston writers! Together, the three of us formed the Houston YA/MG group. It was at one of these meetings that I met the amazing Rachel Harris. We hit it off right away and went to DFWCon together. (Along with her amazing hubs =)). She helped me with my pitch, gave me some great advice on my book, and slammed down some beers with me. She is AWESOME, and I am eternally grateful that we have connected! Her insights and advice are INVALUABLE!!

Another amazing person I have recently connected with is Diane Holmes of Pitch University. I sought her out for advice on self-publishing. She introduced me to a few folks who could help me e-pub, and now I am working with the super incredible Alicia Rasley. You may know her from the Editorrent blog. I am loving working with her!!!

So my point here with all this is...GET CONNECTED! STAY CONNECTED! RETURN THE FAVOR! BE OPEN! Writer friends can help you in so many ways!