Author of contemporary romance
Yes, I'm afraid it probably has. It's been done before. It will most likely be done again. Does anyone bother to wonder why on earth we keep reading stories if they are, in fact, all the same? Here's the thing: they are and they're not. Shall I explain? Plot and story are two distinct things …
Continue reading "That story has been told a million times! It’s time to get original"
Romance writers and avid romance readers are used to criticism. When naysayers are being polite, they suggest romance is fluffy make believe. Harsher critics will go for the jugular and claim that romance is simple, trite and adds nothing meaningful to the literary world. Well, ask a publisher and they might tell you otherwise. Romance …
This week I return to the Sydney Writers' Festival for my wrap up of the session on Tension and Suspense, where authors Caroline Overington, Hannah Richell and Julienne van Loon revealed their tips on how to keep readers turning the pages. And they should know - take a look at their author websites by clicking …
Continue reading "The exhilaration of terror: tips for creating tension and suspense"
Interesting fact: there is more interest in books where women are in jeopardy. Does this mean we're still a long way from achieving equality or are we simply hooked on reading about enterprising women outsmarting evil villains? I attended the session called 'Women on the Run' at the Sydney Writers' Festival to find out. Three …
Weren't able to make the Sydney Writer's Festival? Not to worry, I braved the cold and rain (yes, it does rain from time to time in the harbour city) and was excited to see a a very talented array of writers discussing their craft. Over the next couple of weeks, I'll be bringing you the …
Continue reading "Sydney Writers’ Festival: Monkeys and Typewriters"
Belinda Williams 