Steampunk Course

Have begun an online 'Steampunk' writing course and it's great. I love the name - Steampunk - it seems much edgier than straight paranormal, and the historical element on the Victorian era is very appealing.

Have also discovered a Steampunk band that I love - Abney Park! You can purchase on iTunes, and you should! 'Sleep Isabella,' 'Dear Ophelia,' 'Stigmata Matyr,' and 'Herr Drosselmeyer's Doll,' have been endlessly repeating themselves through my car stereo and iPod. LOVE IT.

My Emerald Entry

Well received some great news tonight - I have made it through to the finals for the RWA Emerald Award (Single Title) with my 'Shift' manuscript. I scored a 88.6 out of 100 and was ranked thirteenth with my first 3 chapters. Thrilled and motivated to continue writing now!

A super start to my writing year! Can't wait to see what else unfolds this year.

20,000 words and a Roadshow in Cairns

Back from holidays and back into writing - am up to 20,000 words and very happy with the way things are progressing. My narrative seems a lot easier to write this time around, so I'm hoping that it can only get better.

Also working on flyers and registration forms for The NQ Romance Writers Roadshow my writing group will be running in Cairns on behalf of RWA (Romance Writers of Australia). Looks to be a great day and will post the flyer once done.

off to Melbourne

Off to the city tomorrow and ready to be inspired by all the arty things I see down there. Have listed vintage and antique shops to trawl through!

Am up to 13,000 words on the manuscript and hoping to work on a short story while I am away. Have cousin's engagement party on boxing day and can't wait to meet all her new family.

shopping and writing

Off to Melbourne next week for holiday and busily tapping away at the keyboard. Am up to 11,000 words and thrilled to see a manuscript taking form again.

My other creative efforts - leadlight projects and tea cup clock

Words, words, words

7000 words for my new novel and counting.... It's such a struggle to get that first draft down and so many insecurities to fight off as you go. But luckily I have always been extremely stubborn and driven - am going to aim for 50, 000 words by the end of January. Let's see how I go.