It was a steamy Sunday when members of writers groups from all over Queensland converged on Northgate Hall for the annual Writers Group Convention. The brainchild of short fiction writer, Gillian Lloyd this convention has been going for 13 years. I have attended many of those conventions and spoken once before about column writing.
This year I was asked to speak about my writing journey along with historical fiction author, Melissa Ashley, crime writer Jack Roney and speculative fiction author, Pamela Jeffs. It was great to hear from fellow authors of different genres and as the day wore on we also had a chance to browse the book stands and chat with fellow authors.
I spoke about being in a writing group, entering competitions, being chosen for short story anthologies and finally being contracted to publish my first book – It Happened In Paris with Serenade Publishing. My latest novel – Chateau of Love was published in July.
Writing is a passion and something I am compelled to do but I first had to learn my craft by joining Romance Writers of Australia, taking feedback from my writing group and listening to podcasts and author talks. I also learnt so much during the editing process with the input from my publisher and editor. It’s all these small steps that lead to becoming a better writer.
Writing Groups can provide feedback and friendship in a job that can often feel like a lonely pursuit. It is always wonderful to hear from other authors, editors, publishers and readers and marvel at the creativity and wide variety of genres to be found in the writing world. I can’t wait for next year.
Jumping on the City Cat on a balmy Brisbane day I received a free blow dry as we breezed along the brown snake. Soon the majestic Powerhouse Museum was in my sights – the new home of the Brisbane Writers Festival. Would it live up to previous events I’d attended at the State Library of Queensland? The answer was a resounding “YES”.
There could be no prettier place than New Farm park with the jacarandas in bloom and no cooler and hip home than the Powerhouse by the river to greet our visiting authors, guests and locals alike. Food trucks were dotted around outside and as I walked up the hill an appreciative crowd were listening to an author talk in an open marquee.
I was heading straight for the bookstore manned by the friendly staff at Avid Reader and I spent a leisurely half hour browsing the titles, many from attending authors. I bought the new Fiona McIntosh – The Soldier’s Daughter, which I hoped to have signed after her talk. I spied Michael Robotham’s latest book to gift to my husband and I simply couldn’t resist a copy of Clare Stephen’s debut – The Worst Year of My Life.
I laughed as I spied my bookworm friend, Chris also strolling through the book display, marvelling at the musical instrument sculpture above us. It was a beautiful setting and very conducive to buying more books than one could carry. I’m sure we’d both developed new arm muscles by the end of our day out.
Our first stop was Mary Mae’s for a spot of lunch to sustain us through the talks to come. I really enjoyed my Asian chicken skewers paired with a cold glass of Pinot Gris. As we chatted authors walked by chatting with their publishers, PR and peers.
Our first stop was a panel discussion ‘So Funny It Hurts’. Moderated by Siang Lu we heard about a bodice – busting romance homage, a wickedly funny modern rom – com, a riotous big – hearted memoir and a dazzling short fiction collection. The main event for us was a talk by one of our favourite authors, Fiona McIntosh. Fiona shared stories of her research trips around the world, her popular masterclass and the many books she’d written in different genres.
Fiona is always such an engaging speaker whose own love for writing shines through. Her mentor was the icon Bryce Courtenay who encouraged her to write in different genres before attempting her now wildly popular historical fiction stories and crime novels. In exciting news, Fiona told us her book – The Pearl Thief was being made into a movie. Can’t wait for that one!
In the evening we ventured over to Brisbane Square Library to hear from Clare Stephens whose debut ‘The Worst Year of My Life’ has just come out. An appreciative crowd listened on as she was interviewed by her twin sister, Jessie. I’m sure many in the audience were Mamamia fans. The line for the book signing was so long we decided to head over to the W instead for a roadie. Sinking into the sumptuous lounges in the bar we reflected on a fabulous day of books, authors and our beautiful Brisbane. Till next year!
This week saw me gather together a few book loving friends from my local area. I didn’t want to make too much of a fuss about my new book so kept things close to home.
All embraced the French dress theme of berets, scarves, stripes and polka dots. We were celebrating the release of my new romance novel – Chateau of Love.
We sipped French bubbles, supped on French food and chatted about the book and what to expect from its pages. There’s history, fashion, food, wine, family, misunderstandings and a sprinkle of spice. I signed a few books and enjoyed a lively afternoon filled with fun conversations.
It’s an anxious time when you release a book out into the world. It was wonderful to be in the company of close, supportive friends. These are the friends who have cheered me on every step of the way. Most have known me for more than twenty years.
Chateau of Love shares the lives of traveller writer Saffron Graham, her photographer, Jett and French guide, Claude. This love triangle story is set in beautiful Provence, one of the most romantic places in the world. It’s a part of the world I have visited often since our first family trip in 2007 and there are still so many areas I’d love to explore. I hope this story gives readers a little taste of what this region has to offer from lavender fields to historical sites.
Writing can be hard and editing really takes it out of you so it’s great to finally share the good times. I’ll be concentrating on writing children’s books for a while and have begun a women’s fiction book which focuses on friendship. I also have ideas for a third French Kiss book with the working title – Chocolate Kisses but for now it’s time to celebrate Chateau of Love and reset and rest…
My latest novel – Chateau of Love will be published on July 28. The second book in the French Kiss series this one is set in the South of France and shares a love triangle story between Australian travel writer – Saffron, her photographer – Jett and the château guide -Claude.
It’s full of everything I love : wine, food, fashion, history and wonderful French sights and scenery. To me, France is the most romantic place in the world and I love setting my story in such exotic locales. For lovers of travel romance with a touch of spice.
I am lucky enough to receive Advanced Reader copies or ARCS of many books for review. This means I have the privilege of reading books before their release date. This also enables me to read in a wide variety of genres. This June I am happy to report that I have three new excellent books to recommend, all in different genres – romance, crime and historical fiction.
The first is in one of my favourite genres – rural romance. My author friend, Maya Linnell and her wonderful publishers at Allen and Unwin gifted me her latest novel – Cockatoo Cove. This is Maya’s seventh book and possibly one of my favourites yet. It tells the story of Maggie West, a hardworking cattle stud owner and mother of a teenage girl. Maggie has been unlucky in love and with so much going on there is no time for romance.
Enter acclaimed winemaker, Fergus Abernathy from Beesley Brothers Winery who is envious of Maggie’s close knit family as he misses his own family in Scotland. You might remember these characters from last year’s novel, Wallaby Lane.
Maggie and Fergus keep crossing paths and their attraction grows but are they ever in the same place at the right time? When Fergus receives a shocking phone call everything changes. Misunderstandings and long held secrets create roadblocks for the pair and with a community fundraiser hanging in the balance it seems they are not destined to be.
Set in South Australia’s Limestone Coast and sharing the beauty of its rugged coastline, this book showcases the area’s wine, agriculture, crayfishing industry and country spirit while exploring themes of resilience, connection and life on the land. Packed with some new and old friends you will love this heartwarming tale of grown up love and understanding. I know I did! This is storytelling that will make your heart sing. Out June 3.
Joan Sauers is a new to me author who has written many screenplays and is a producer and author. Her latest crime novel, Whisky Valley, made for cosy and compulsive reading.
We meet historian – turned – amateur sleuth Rose Mc Hugh. Rose lives in the moody Southern Highlands. Another setting I am not familiar with but which captivated my interest as a character in its own right. Rose has been battling anxiety after nearly being murdered last year but when her son’s lifelong friend disappears she uses her investigative skills to try and find him. The young, famous violinist is missing along with his priceless violin.
As floodwaters begin to rise, Rose uncovers secrets and lies among the man’s fellow musicians, his patron and her enigmatic psychologist husband. I loved the inclusion of classical music and history. It added another layer to the story.
When a body is finally found Rose must find answers fast as her own son comes under suspicion. Will she put herself and her family in even further danger?
This novel is full of family dynamics, friendship, community events, rivalry, whisky making, mouthwatering food and an ending that will surprise in this murder mystery. Such a great read for lovers of Australian crime.
From the acclaimed author of The Good Wife of Bath, Karen Brooks, comes the new historical fiction – The Whisky Widow. With a publication date in early July this well researched novel celebrates the art of whisky distilling and the defiant spirit of the Scottish Highlands. It’s a rollicking story of bravery, adventure, love and murder which brings the Scottish Highlands of long ago to life. I’m halfway through and can’t stop reading. Not since Outlander have I enjoyed a book set in Scotland so much. Brooks is a masterful storyteller who weaves her magic on every page. Look out for this one in stores next month.
As a young Mum the library was my haven. I looked forward to the kids borrowing books, playing in the park and having morning tea in the sunshine. It was always a favourite part of my week.
It was also special because I was able to borrow the latest novels and escape from Mum life through my book friends. I think Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series saved my sanity. Another new book friend found at the library was young Irish writer, Marian Keyes. I first read her debut novel – Watermelon over thirty years ago.
Watermelon told the story of Claire, a woman who finds out her husband is having an affair shortly after she gives birth. Devastated, she returns to Dublin to live with her family, including her parents and sisters, and begins the process of healing her life. It was this honest, humorous and heartwarming story which made me fall in love with Marian Keyes and the whole Walsh family of characters.
Since then Marian has become a once -in – a – lifetime talent who has been writing for over 30 years. Marian’s books are always an automatic buy for me as they give you the feeling of having a cuppa with a good friend.
When I heard that Marian was coming to Brisbane it was a bucket list moment for me and I had to buy a ticket. So on a rainy Brisbane night I headed into South Bank to hear Marian speak at the Concert Hall. She was just as funny, engaging, honest and wise as I had expected.
It is no secret that Marian has had her own battles and she talked of these openly. She explained that there was the Marian before she’d gone to rehab and the Marian after. She shared that this was her favourite mistake but one that ultimately changed her life.
In her new book- My Favourite Mistake she shares the story of another Walsh sister, Anna. Anna has the dream job. She works in cosmetics for a multinational company, has the perfect partner and lives a wonderful life in New York but… she is not happy.
So Anna implodes her life and moves back home to Dublin, much to the horror of her family who can see their access to the latest make up samples drying up. She also reconnects with her teenage crush, Narky Joey and helps out a dear friend promoting her new hotel.
The book shares the ups and downs, problems and solutions and the course of Anna’s family life and romance. Along the way we catch up with all our favourite family members and old family friends while enjoying the beautiful Irish scenery.
Marian writes from the heart and advised us as writers to write as if no one else was going to read it. Very good advice! With sex scenes she says she doesn’t love writing them (nor do I) but agrees that women have come so far that it needs to be included to show that it is a normal part of life. My feelings exactly!
Marian shared her wisdom. She is my age (61 ) and said she would tell her 30 year old self to find the joy in life. Travel and see the world, enjoy being young and learn about the world. We are here for such a short time it is important to find those glimmers of happiness.
Marian has delighted her readers worldwide with her heartwarming and genuine novels set in her home of Ireland. Later in the year Stan has filmed the story of the Walsh Sisters for us all to enjoy.
It was an absolutely delightful evening and the full house walked out with smiles on their faces and an even greater love for this warm and talented author. So go and dig out a Marian Keyes novel for real stories about real life with a sense of fun and warmth.
On a rainy Brisbane night diehard Natasha Lester fans trekked to West End for the launch of her latest historical fiction novel, The Mademoiselle Alliance. Natasha was in conversation with our favourite journalist and author, Frances Whiting.
This book tells the story of Marie – Madeleine Foucard – hero and only female leader of the French Resistance. She was a remarkable woman who was one of the most wanted by the Gestapo during World War Two. Hers is a story of courage, love and friendship during times of uncertainty and fear.
Marie – Madeleine was a mother, rally car driver, pilot, journalist and leader. She was known as ‘ the beautiful spy’ and her epic escapades seem almost superhuman now. She was so strong, resilient and loyal to those she led and she just kept fighting because she knew it was the right thing to do.
We meet a cast of characters whose bravery also shines through but at the heart of the story is a romance. The love story between Marie – Madeleine and her second in command, Leon Faye. Leon is also a hero and a man not afraid to be led by a strong woman.
This meticulously researched novel moves from Morocco, 1928 to Paris, 1938 taking the reader on a perilous journey which surely helped to shorten the duration of the war. The story of Marie – Madeleine Foucard shares how a young Parisian mother feted for her beauty and glamour, comes to lead one of the largest spy networks in France.
Natasha Lester is an automatic buy for me and has many titles available including my favourite, The Riviera House and her last novel, The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard, which was longlisted for the 2024 ARA Historical Novel Prize. The Mademoiselle Alliance is out now. Natasha Lester is now touring Australia. Watch out for her in a bookstore or library near you. She is a wonderful storyteller.
This week romance readers are in for a treat as the ARRA signings take place around Australia. First stop was Brisbane where there were panel discussions, lunch with the authors and book signings. I went along to the signings in the afternoon to catch up with writing friends and add to my romance library.
I first chatted with my friend Jordan Clayden – Lewis who has published two queer romance books -When Things Happen Together and Such a Small World. He’s busy working on his third. Looking forward to reading that one.
T. M. Clark writes African suspense with a touch of romance. Her action/ adventures include Cry of the Firebird and Tears of a Cheetah. She weaves her fascination with diverse cultures, wildlife and superb storytelling through her books. I had some books signed and purchased Tina’s latest children’s picture book – Quickly, Quickly for my granddaughter.
It was good to meet author, Elaelah Harley. I couldn’t resist buying a copy of her book, Wish You Were French to add to my French themed fiction shelf. I spied Kat from Shelf Lovers and grabbed gifts for friends, before chatting to Rachel Sweasey whose historical dual time line novel – The Last Boat Home caught my eye.
Louisa Duval writes rural romance and witchy fiction under the pen name of Sabrina. I was taken by her title, Worth the Risk. Clarissa Morgan was nearby with her anthologies and next door was prolific romantasy writer, H.M. Hodgson.
My Sunshine Coast writing friends, Catherine Bilson and emerging author, E. C. Helliwell were doing a roaring trade with readers lapping up Catherine’s Pride and Prejudice based series and historical romances. A copy of The Meddling Matlocks found its way onto my shelf.
Rural romance writing friend, Fiona Marsden was there and heading on to the Sydney signings the next day. Her book – Hard Road Home was my last purchase of the day and we had a great chat. Other authors I spied were Sapphic novelist Sam L. Val, Tanya Bird and special overseas guests, Nalini Singh and Julie Ann Walker.
It’s so great for readers to get up close and personal with their favourite authors and there was a happy buzz in the air. Some readers even had trolleys to take their book hauls home. Australian Romance Readers Association provides great opportunities for readers and writers to connect via events, newsletters and a vibrant social media community. There are still events in Melbourne and Perth next weekend so look out for where these writers will be popping up next.
Round One of my edits have been completed for my now hopefully 2025 release ‘ The Chateau of Love’. I’ve sent the manuscript back to my fabulous publisher – Sarah Williams from Serenade Publishing. Thanks to my editor, A.K.Leigh for making my words sing.
It’s always difficult to finally press send, even when you think you’ve edited as much as you can. Now Sarah will edit, proofread and format my story ready to send back to me for a final once over before publication.
I find editing exhausting, particularly hard on the ‘old’eyes.
Every time I finish an edit whether it be for a short story or novel I think to myself ‘never again’. It’s good to be in the lull right now where I can read romance and wonder on the design which will be chosen for my cover.
I’ll keep you updated with a cover reveal and launch date as we travel further along the path to publication.
It is sometimes hard to see the ‘forest for the trees’ with your own work so a good editor will help you nut out plot holes, strengthen your characters and provide valuable feedback. I am pleased to say that unlike my first manuscript I seem to have developed a much better understanding of ‘Point of View’ or POV and am ‘showing’ not telling in so many places.
Being a ‘ Pantser’ I pretty much write my story in scenes until I reach the end. It is funny how during the editing process the ending and starting point are usually changed. This always makes the story better. I’ve learned not to be too precious and am happy to defer judgement to those who’ve been doing this a long time.
So, if you’d like to read a story set in the beautiful South of France filled with history, wine, fashion and food ‘The Château of Love’ might be for you. It’s a love triangle travel romance with a twist and I know you will love meeting travel writer, Saffron and château guide, Claude. Until next time… au revoir.
Valentine’s Day was the perfect day to launch the BLUSSH Romance Festival. Filled with films, author talks, market stalls, poetry readings and more this festival was designed for lovers of love.
I grabbed my valentine and walked the pink carpet before our screening of the wonderfully heartwarming rom com film, ‘ Bridget Jones – Mad About the Boy.’ We laughed, cried and revelled in catching up with our favourite characters.
Saturday brought the first of many author talks with the Rom – Com Revival panel. Romance author, Ally Blake was in conversation with the USA Today bestseller Amy Andrews, local romance author Louisa Duval and Australia’s reigning rom com queen, Rachael Johns, who was in town to promote her latest rom com novel, ‘ The Bad Bridesmaid’.
The group talked about the historical heyday of the rom com citing favourite films like ‘ Notting Hill’ and ‘ When Harry met Sally’ before discussing how a new generation are discovering rom coms thanks to streaming services and tik tok’s popular book tok recommendations.
After exploring the market stalls and having my new book signed by Rachael Johns I caught up with my publisher Sarah Williams from Serenade publishing who had a table at the market. Many of her titles sold out!
Midday brought a special ‘ Lit to Lens’ panel who shared examples of books being adapted to film. This was followed by a screening of Brisbane author, Kylie Scott’s book ‘ Lick’ which has been made into a film through Passionflix. We all enjoyed this spicy rock star romance starring the Gold Coast’s Brooke Lee.
The Romantasy panel shared their thoughts on this popular genre which includes witches and dragons, urban fantasy and aliens. It is one of the hottest romance genres right now. Capably led by H.M. Hodgson the panel featured Melanie Pickering, Elena Moriarty and Demi Clorissa.
Exiting the cinema we bumped into the cast and crew of ‘ A Royal Proposal – A Royal in Paradise Two’ who were strutting their stuff on the pink carpet before a special advanced screening of their film which will be in cinemas later this year.
Our hearts were full as we made our way home after a wonderful festival which was kind, inspiring and lovely. Thanks to the hardworking organisers, Sue -Anne Chapman and Kylie Pascoe for a truly wonderful event.
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