LZ's Latest News & Updates

Discussing writing and meeting other writers as a fan-girl! Being among many gifted authors and up for an award myself! It's been an incredible weekend so far... What more could a gal ask for?

How about a rockin' birthday? Today -- right in the middle of the conference -- I turn 39... for the first and only time! Fabulous 40s here I come! I'll be whooping it up at the after dinner dancing tonight!

Labels: birthday, conference

I just wanted to let everyone know that I will be mostly offline for the next seven days (July 30-August 5) enjoying the fun and sun in Phoenix attending the Golden Crown Literary Society annual conference.

Labels: conference, GCLS, offline

Golden Crown Literary Society, dedicated to expanding the visibility and quality of lesbian fiction, has released its list of Goldie award finalists in advance of its annual conference in Phoenix (July 31-Aug 3), where the winners will be announced.

I have been named a finalist in Debut Author for Turning Point from P.D. Publishing, Inc.

Congratulations to all the finalists! Please follow this link to see the whole list.
http://www.gclscon.com/2008GCLSAwards-Finalists.html

I'm again looking forward to seeing all the writers, editors, publishers and readers in Phoenix!

Labels: authors, award, conference, GCLS, lesbian fiction, PD Publishing, TP, Turning Point

I've had a busy week. Wednesday I attended my local FWA chapter meeting, and connected with two possible authors to add to a list of authors and performance artists for a local Center (GLB) arts event I'm putting together for January. Everyone it seems is very busy with Nanowrimo otherwise. Thursday I attended the FWA chapter meeting in nearby Osceola county, came away with a short story to edit for another member, a speaking engagement in December, and two of my books sold.

Then this week's finale... Florida Writers Association annual conference kicked off yesterday (Friday) and I am busy at this statewide event for writers through Sunday. "Turning Point" is up for a Royal Palm category award tonight, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

While I am the only alternative book available in the conference "bookstore" and have only run into one other author writing alternative content stories, there is a huge boon in networking at these events. As a result of attending just the workshops and seminars on the first day, I have two more speaking opportunities lined up for December to private groups. I also have two new thoughts on broadening the marketing plan for "Turning Point", have begun discussions with an agent to let go of some of the more esoteric marketing work so I can buckle down with the writing.

So, the moral here? If you are a writer, published or not, even a small conference "out of field" brings connections, opportunities, and exposure.

Labels: conference, Florida Writers Association, FWA