Attended my first RWA conference in Melbourne a couple of weeks ago.  It was amazing.  There were over 400 delegates in attendance. That’s an incredible number of people who are currently writing within the various romance genres.

I met some interesting writers, participated in great sessions on a range of technical aspects of writing and publishing, and listened to highly practical advice.  I also had the opportunity to pitch my manuscript to four new publishers.  There are no guarantees of course but at least it is a foot in the door.

On arriving back home, all enthused of course, I decided based on my observation of what is being published at the moment, that my book should probably be a bit longer and so added another chapter and nine thousand words.  In doing so, I introduced a new plot thread and am now happier with the overall plot development.

Work is progressing on the next manuscript, and in fact I wrote the best part of a new chapter while I was in Melbourne. There are time challenges whilst I am in the process of establishing a new business (www.worklifejunction.com.au) but I will try to dedicate a day a week to writing.

I didn’t see a lot of Melbourne but enjoyed the hustle and bustle while I was out and about in the evening, looking for food.  I did not stay at the conference venue, opting instead for more affordable Airbnb accommodation. I was a bit removed from everyone in the evenings, but at least that meant I could get some writing done.

Next year’s conference is in Adelaide, so I will definitely be attending that one.  Should have another novel to pitch by then.