Christian Writers of the West

Coming up! An event you don't want to miss!

2011-12-21T14:27:00.000-07:00

Christian Writers of the West presents

A Mini-Conference with Colleen Coble

Romancing the Idea
Colleen will talk about layers, fleshing out your idea, and taking your fiction to the next level.

Saturday Jan 28th 2012 - Two sessions 9am-2pm - pack a lunch or order pizza at sign-in, Cost is $15 for non-members

Camelback Church of Christ 5225 East Camelback Rd, Phoenix, Arizona 85018

Best-selling author Colleen Coble's novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, the ACFW Carol Award, the Romance Writers of America RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers' Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has nearly 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana. Read more about Colleen at www.colleencoble.com.

For questions about the Mini-Conference, contact our club (CWOW)

http://christianwritersofthewest.weebly.com/contact.html

News you need to know, including dates and meetings.

2011-11-16T14:13:00.001-07:00

Please note that our next two upcoming meetings are not on the last Saturday of the month as usual. Instead -

CWOW November business meeting to be held this Saturday, NOVEMBER 19th in conjunction with the Sixth Annual Fall Writers Work (details below.) Our business meeting will be at lunch at Los Olivos Mexican Restaurant

CWOW Critique Group will be held Saturday, December 3rd. Because we are meeting so much earlier in the month, please put your submissions in the folder on the website as soon as possible.

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SIXTH ANNUAL FALL WRITERS WORKSHOPS
Saturday, November 19, 2011 - 10 am to 4:30 pm
Scottsdale Civic Center Library - Downstairs
3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd - Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Free Admission - No registration necessary - First come First Serve seating - Lunch on your own - Complimentary morning coffee & rolls

Keynote speaker: 1:30 to 2:20 pm
CARIS ROANE - RT Career Achievement Award recipient and Best selling author of the GUARDIANS OF ASCENSION series.
Workshop: PARANORMAL: THE POWER OF EXAGGERATION

10 am:
The ABCs of PBs, MGs, & YAs - Writing for kids and Young Adults - by Shelley Coriell

I'VE WRITTEN THE BOOK, NOW WHAT DO I DO? - by Pamela Tracy

WRITING AS A TEAM - Tia Eaton and Dani Petrone

11 am:
THE INS AND OUTS OF SELF-PUBLISHING - by Kris Tualla

PLOTTING SECRETS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE STORY - by Vijaya Schartz

GHOSTS - BRINGING THE DEAD TO LIFE ON THE PAGE - by Linda Andrews

noon: cwow business meeting at Los Olivos Mexican Restaurant
7328 2nd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

2:30 pm
TEN GRABBERS THAT GUARANTEE A PAGE TURNER - by Connie Flynn

SOCIAL MEDIA 101 - Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, Goodreads, Blog Talk Radio, and more - by Amber Scott

THE PROPER HUNTING, CAPTURING, CARE & FEEDING OF A LITERARY AGENT - by Gini Koch

3:30 pm
AS AN AUTHOR ANYTHING - Open panel with today's featured presenters.

Upcoming writer's workshop you might want to check out!

2011-11-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

SIXTH ANNUAL FALL WRITERS WORKSHOPS

Saturday, November 19, 2011 - 10 am to 4:30 pm

Scottsdale Civic Center Library - Downstairs

3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd - Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Free Admission - No registration necessary - First come First Serve seating - Lunch on your own - Complimentary morning coffee & rolls

Keynote speaker: 1:30 to 2:20 pm

CARIS ROANE - RT Career Achievement Award recipient and Best selling author of the GUARDIANS OF ASCENSION series.

Workshop: PARANORMAL: THE POWER OF EXAGGERATION

10 am:

The ABCs of PBs, MGs, & YAs - Writing for kids and Young Adults - by Shelley Coriell

I'VE WRITTEN THE BOOK, NOW WHAT DO I DO? - by Pamela Tracy

WRITING AS A TEAM - Tia Eaton and Dani Petrone

11 am:

THE INS AND OUTS OF SELF-PUBLISHING - by Kris Tualla

PLOTTING SECRETS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE STORY - by Vijaya Schartz

GHOSTS - BRINGING THE DEAD TO LIFE ON THE PAGE - by Linda Andrews

Upcoming events for CWOW members.

2011-11-01T22:59:00.000-06:00

Upcoming Events:
· November 8 – Valley of the Sun Romance Writers, 7:30 pm, Agent Steve Laube speaking (free). Iron Works Restaurant, 17233 N. 45th Ave., Phoenix (dinner 5:30 pm).
· November 19th – NOTE DATE CHANGE – CWOW joins RWA for FREE all day (10 am -4 pm) Writing workshops at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library. Featured speaker, YA Author Shelly Coriell. See www.desertrosewa.org for event brochure.
CWOW Business Meeting will be at lunch – Los Olivos Restaurant.
· December 3 – CWOW Critique Group
· January 28, 2012 Save the Date for an all day Mini-Conference with Colleen Coble.
· February 25, 2012 – CWOW Critique Group
· March 31, 2012 – CWOW Speaker TBA
· April 28, 2012 – CWOW one day hands-on writing workshop for members only with novelist Susan Meissner. (Suggestion: read one of her books before the workshop.)

Check out October's CWOW meeting!

2011-10-25T21:01:00.001-06:00

You’re invited!

American Christian Fiction Writers - Christian Writers of the West

Saturday, October 29

Manuel’s Fine Mexican Food

2350 E. Southern Ave., Tempe AZ 85282

1 p.m. Critique Session

2 p.m. Angela Hunt’s Plot Skeleton, presented by Ann Lee Miller

Cost: free (lunch available for purchase)

BA in Creative Writing from Ashland University (OH).

President of Arizona chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers, Christian Writers of the West

Ann guest lectures in several colleges each semester on plotting. She’s written four novels, won first place, long contemporary in RWA’s Faith, Hope, & Love contest, won an agent, lost an agent, lived to write another day.

In her quest to learn plotting, Ann discovered Angela Hunt’s Plot Skeleton, a visual tool for the undergirding of a story. Disorganized thinkers, those who have difficulty visualizing the big picture aspects of a novel, plotters, and seat-of-the-pants writers will find the skeleton helpful.

The Phoenix Rattler contest is now open!

2011-10-06T23:04:00.002-06:00

Grand Prize: Free Registration for the 2012 ACFW Conference in Dallas ($512)!

We are delighted to announce the 2^nd annual Phoenix Rattler Does Your Story Have Bite? Contest is accepting entries now through October 29. The contest is hosted by the Arizona ACFW chapter, Christian Writers of the West. Unpublished authors may submit entries of up to ten pages in six categories.

Every entry will be judged by three authors such as Jerry B. Jenkins, Brandilyn Collins, Jenny B. Jones, and Brock Thoene in the preliminary round. A complete list of the judges appears on the contest website. The top three finalists in each category will be read by the editors and agents listed below:

Contemporary Fiction

Historical Fiction

Suspense/Thriller/Mystery

Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Allegory

Young Adult

Women’s Fiction

Don Pape, Publisher, David C Cook
Bill Jensen, William K Jensen Literary Agency

Karen Schurrer, Acquisitions Editor, Adult Fiction, Bethany Hs
Joyce Hart, Agent, Hartline Literary Agency

Sue Brower, Executive Editor for Fiction, Zondervan
Elizabeth Mazer, Assistant Editor, Love Inspired Suspense

Jeff Gerke, Owner, Marcher Lord Press, Author, Jefferson Scott
Amanda Luedeke, Agent, MacGregor Literary

Becky Monds, Associate Editor, Fiction, Thomas Nelson
Rachel Kent, Agent, Books & Such LiteraryAgency
Joanna MacKenzie, Browne & Miller Literary Associates

Ami McConnell, Senior Acquisitions Editor, Thomas Nelson
Sandra Bishop, Agent, MacGregor Literary
Judy Mikalonis, Senior Agent, Andrea Hurst & Associates

In addition to the Grand Prize winner, each category winner will receive $25.
Entry fee is $25. The winners will be announced Feb 11th 2012, giving finalists time to polish submissions for the ACFW 2012 Genesis contest.

We are praying that God will use our contest to encourage Christian writers and to connect authors with members of the publishing industry who may ultimately publish their novels.

For complete contest info and entry form, go to www.christianwritersofthewest.weebly.com. Click on Phoenix Rattler Contest. We heartily give permission to forward this e-mail to any friends who may be interested.

About the guest speaker Denise Doming. Meet her tomorrow!

2011-09-23T21:59:00.002-06:00

Join CWOW Saturday, 9/24, 1 p.m. @ Manuel's Fine Mexican Food, 2350 E. Southern Ave, Tempe.

My first Medieval novel, Winter's Heat, received the Romantic Times award for Best First Historical Novel of 1994. That led me into a series of books that take place in the Twelfth century, the time of Robin Hood and Richard the Lionheart. In them I follow the lives of the five FitzHenry brothers. After Winter's Heat came Summer's Storm, then Spring's Fury. That book was nominated for Best Medieval of 1995 and its sequel Autumn's Flame was nominated for the same award for 1996. Kristin Ramsdall of the Library Journal lists the final book of the series, A Love For All Seasons on her recommended reading list, including it in the Library Journal's 1997 annual publication "What Do I Read Next". Although all of these are out of print with their original publisher, they are now available through Kindle and iUniverse. I'm working on bringing out the rest.

From there I thought I'd dabble a little with the Elizabethans. Publisher's Weekly liked Lady in Waiting, the first of these two books, calling it "well written, well researched, with an accurate portrayal of Elizabeth I". Lady in White, an Elizabethan ghost story, followed in October, 1999.

Once finished with the Elizabethans, I went back to the 13th Century for Avon Books and a pen name--it was the first time I didn't have to get married to change my name. I chose Hampton because I like Hampton Court Palace in England. The first book, The Warrior's Damsel came out in May, 2001, the second, My Lady's Temptation, in February, 2002, while the final book of the trilogy, The Warrior's Game, with its marvelous purple cover, appeared in January of 2003. The last Denise Hampton book appeared on Thanksgiving, 2003. Almost Perfect was my very first Regency Era romance and my last. It's just too modern a time period for me.

So what am I doing now? Well, I'm living out the book "Under the Tuscan Sun" only doing it in Sedona, Arizona instead of Tuscany and doing it green. You see, I don't live with Ed Begley Jr, I live with the other Ed and he's much worse! Check out my blog about my experiences becoming a farmer's wife at denisedomning.com.

Next meeting info - July 30th from 1:00 PM

2011-07-23T22:27:00.000-06:00

Susan Yarina will speak to Christian Writers of the West Saturday, July 30, at 1 p.m. at Maunel’s Fine Mexican Food, 2350 E. Southern Ave, Tempe. Cost: Free.

Susan Yarina

Susan C. Yarina is a multi-genre, multi-published, award-winning author, registered nurse, wife, mother, rancher, horse-trainer, seamstress and prolific reader. All of these are passions of hers. In fact, when she worked as an RN in ICU, the doctors used to ask why she was so passionate about her work. Simple. It’s because she cares so darn much. She was born that way. And at three, she declared she was a writer. When the time came, and she figured she had accumulated enough life experience to be interesting, she began to write. With her natural passion, she started writing romance, sampling the various sub-genres of romance: time-travel, cozy mystery paranormal, medical and western. Booksellers began to place her time-travels and cozy mystery novels in the science fiction sections of the bookstores. After reading her time-travels, science fiction authors began to seek her out and ask her to join them at Copper Con and other science fiction organizations. Her latest trilogy has been pronounced science fiction with romantic elements, yet another genre. So, if you are looking for fast-paced, sometimes funny, action-packed books with twists you never saw coming and that you find hard to put down, look for her books. www.SusanYarina.com Her motto is Laugh, live, love…oh, and by all means read!

Upcoming meeting dates to remember...

2011-06-16T07:15:00.000-06:00

CWOW Copper Crits:

Saturday, June 25, 2011

1:00 p.m. (Manuel’s in Tempe)

CWOW Meeting:

Saturday, July 30, 2011

1:00 p.m. (Manuel’s in Tempe)

Info about this Saturday's meeting - May 21st, 2011!

2011-05-15T18:38:00.000-06:00

Next Saturday, May 21, at 1 p.m. mystery author Donis Casey will speak to Christian Writers of the West at Manuel’s Fine Mexican Food, 2350 E. Southern Ave., Tempe.

Donis Casey is the author of five Alafair Tucker Mysteries,The Old Buzzard Had It Coming, Hornswoggled, The Drop Edge of Yonder, The Sky Took Him, and the just released Crying Blood. Her award-winning series, featuring the sleuthing mother of ten children, is set in Oklahoma during the booming 1910s. Donis is a former teacher, academic librarian, and entrepreneur who currently lives in Tempe with her husband, poet Donald Koozer. http://www.doniscasey.com

Are you not yet published? Would you like to win a cash prize? Check this out!

2011-05-14T22:10:00.002-06:00

Christian Writers of the West (CWOW) – Arizona’s ACFW chapter - Announces

The Phoenix Rattler 2011-2012 writing contest - “Does your story have bite?”

Contest open to all unpublished novelists

Send the first scene, up to 10 pages, double spaced

Deadline Oct 29th 2011, winner announced Feb 11th 2012, fee $25

Category winners receive $25 prize - All Finalists receive an award certificate

Grand Prize (worth $515) paid registration to 2012 ACFW Conference (minimum 150 entries)

CATEGORIES & FINAL-ROUND JUDGES:

Contemporary Fiction

Don Pape, Publisher, David C Cook

Bill Jensen, Owner, William K Jensen Literary Agency

Historical Fiction

Karen Schurrer, Acquisitions Editor, Adult Fiction, Bethany House

Joyce Hart, Agent, Hartline Literary Agency

Suspense/Thriller/Mystery

Sue Brower, Executive Editor for Fiction, Zondervan

Elizabeth Mazer, Assistant Editor, Love Inspired Suspense

Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Allegory

Jeff Gerke, Owner, Marcher Lord Press, Author, Jefferson Scott
Amanda Luedeke, Agent, MacGregor Literary

Young Adult

Becky Monds, Associate Editor, Fiction, Thomas Nelson

Rachel Kent, Agent, Books & Such Literary Agency

Joanna MacKenzie, Browne & Miller Literary Associates

Women’s Fiction

Ami McConnell, Sr Acquisitions Editor, Fiction, Thomas Nelson
Sandra Bishop, Agent, MacGregor Literary
Judy Mikalonis, Senior Agent, Andrea Hurst & Associates

Romance included in all categories

Watch website for details and entry form:

www.ChristianWritersOfTheWest.weebly.com

Contest Coordinator: DL Shipley – Rattler@dlshipley.com

Info about this Saturday's meeting at 1:00pm on March 26

2011-03-22T23:58:00.001-06:00

M anuel's Fine Mexican Food
2350 E Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282

Visitors are welcome.

Special Guest: Susan Pohlman!

Her essays have been published in The Washington Times, Family Digest, The Family, Raising Arizona Kids,Guideposts Magazine, Homelife Magazine, AZ Parenting and Italiannotebook.com.

She has written three, award-winning short films. The Toast received two awards in the 2008 TIVA-DC Peer Awards, and Here,There, and Everywhere received awards in four categories in the 2009 TIVA-DC Peer Awards. The Misadventures of Matilda Mench won best screenplay in the 2010 Baltimore 48 Hour Film Project and the 2010 CINE Golden Eagle Award for best Independent Fiction Short.

Halfway to Each Other is her first book and winner of the relationships category in the 2010 Next Generation Indie Book Awards.

About Saturday's meeting, Feb 26, 2011!

2011-02-25T23:07:00.003-07:00

Christian Writers of the West Chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers will be kicking off our critique group on Saturday, Feb. 26 at 1 p.m. at

Manuel's Fine Mexican Food
2350 E Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282

A stack of Margaret Daley books will be awarded to the person who names our new critique group.

Visitors are welcome!

Mark your calendars for our next meeting March 26--same bat time, same bat place. Our speaker will be Author Susan Pohlman.

Check out our new website at http://christianwritersofthewest.weebly.com

Next meeting information - please read!

2011-02-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

a reminder about the first meeting of the new CWOW Critique Group:

· First meeting is 2 weeks from this Saturday – February 26th. Y’all come!

· Same meeting time and place as our regular meetings

o Last Saturday of the Month, 1:00

o Manuel’s Fine Mexican Food, 2350 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, AZ

· This will be an introductory session. We’ll discuss the format, hand out information about the meeting ‘loop’, have an example critique, and answer questions. Get in on the ground floor!

· We need a name! There is a prize! Please email suggestions to me at dana.mcneely@yahoo.com

· Guests are welcome to attend up to two CWOW meetings before joining. This includes the Critique Group meetings.

· More information to come, but put February 26^th on your calendar now!

CWOW has a new website. Make sure to bookmark it!

2011-01-26T16:41:00.001-07:00

Here is the address. Spread the word!

http://christianwritersofthewest.weebly.com

Info about upcoming CWOW mini-conference in January 2011!

2011-01-05T22:22:00.002-07:00

Be sure to mark your calendar to attend our mini-conference with Margaret Daley. Invite your writer friends. You can forward this e-mail if you like.

Hope to see you on January 29!

Writer’s Workshop with author Margaret Daley – 1/29/11

PLEASE RSVP FOR THIS EVENT

Ann Miller ann_lee_miller@msn.com

Margaret Daley (ACFW President) is an award winning author for Harlequin's Love Inspired line. She has published more than sixty books.

http://www.margaretdaley.com

http://margaretdaley.blogspot.com

Saturday January 29th, 2011

Camelback Church of Christ

5225 East Camelback Rd, Phoenix, Arizona 85018

Two sessions and a Q&A:

11:00-12:00 Career Building

Lunch Break

1:30-2:30 Writing Suspense Fiction

2:30-3:00 Q & A

Free to CWOW/ACFW members

Non-members: $15 or $10 if you join CWOW/ACFW

Courtesy of:

Christian Writers of the West

CWOW - Christian Writers of the West (estab. 2006)

is an American Christian Fiction Writer (ACFW) affiliate club.

We meet at 1:00pm the last Saturday of every month.

Manuel's Fine Mexican Food, 2350 E Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282

Visitors are welcome. Annual dues $10 plus ACFW membership.

Contact CWOW President, Ann Miller ann_lee_miller@msn.com

http://christianwritersofthewest.blogspot.com

News and annoucements (plus some of next year's schedule) posted!

2010-11-27T16:04:00.001-07:00

The CWOW Holiday Meeting has been postponed until January 29 and our special guest will be Margaret Daley. Stay tuned for more details on location and time.

Coming Events:

January 21-22, 2011

January Writing Adventure sponsored by RWA.

Globe AZ

March 26, 2011

CWOW Guest Cynthia Hickey speaks on cozy mysteries

May 21, 2011

CWOW Guest (TBA) Christian Bookstore Manager on Trends

Upcoming event and new board announced!

2010-10-20T16:07:00.001-06:00

We actually have a fairly full slate of officers to consider for next year's board positions, so without further ado:

President: Ann Miller

Vice-President: Dhyana Shipley

Newsletter: Brenda Jackson

Contest: Pam Oxendale and Sandi Green

Speakers: Pamela Tracy

Remember, instead of a regular meeting in November , here's what we're doing:

Come enjoy one of the most talked about free workshops in the West.
Come for the whole day or just an hour or two.

* When: November 20, 10am - 4pm

* Where: Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale, Arizona

* Who: Christina Skye (keynote speaker), Jennifer Ashley (Do you need an agent?), Tara Taylor Quinn (Taking the Next Step), Laurie Schnebly Campbell (Characterization), Denise Domning (Ghostwriting), Donna Hatch (Historicals), Gini Koch and Erin Quinn (Fantasy, Sci Fi, Paranormal) Annette Mahon (Tips for the Beginner), Cathy McDavid (Writing for Harlequin) Vijaya Schartz, Amber Scott, and Kris Tualla (Alternate Publishign)

* For more information: http://libcat.scottsdaleaz.gov/record=g1002975&searchscope=3&SORT2=R

Details about this month's meeting for CWOW!

2010-09-14T08:12:00.005-06:00

Hello All!

It's September! The kids are back to school and it's time for our meeting. And, some of you are off to the big ACFW conference. Our own Brenda Jackson is a finalist in the Genesis contest (Go Brenda!)

Our meeting is on September 25, at 1 p.m., at a new location. We'll be meeting at Manuel's Fine Mexican Food, located at 2350 E Southern Ave, in Tempe, AZ ( 85282) 480-897-0025. Marie Callendar's is closing down (again)

1:00 - Welcome

1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship

1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting

2:00 - 3:30 - Speaker: Judy Duarte

CONFLICT: The Heart of a Novel

A weak or insufficient conflict is one of the biggest reasons a manuscript is rejected, so it’s important to create a sustainable conflict that will engage the readers from the first page to the last. “A book can have likable characters and an interesting plot or setting,” award-winning author, Judy Duarte says, “but if the conflict isn’t strong, the story will fall short of the mark.”

During the September meeting, Judy will discuss both internal and external conflict, as well as techniques to create flawed characters whose struggles will evoke reader sympathy.

Judy’s books have earned her a prestigious Reader’s Choice Award, as well as a Maggie. MULBERRY PARK, her first Christian novel, finaled in the inspirational category of the Rita® in 2009. In 2010, ENTERTAINING ANGELS also finaled in the Rita® , placed second in the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, and finaled in the Maggie.

Last reminder about Saturday's CWOW meeting July 24th!

2010-07-21T07:56:00.004-06:00

This is your friendly reminder about the meeting July 24th. You don't want to miss this one. Our speaker will be Shelley Mosley, a multi-published author of many genres. Her topic: The road to being published is long, winding, and often rough. Writer/reviewer Shelley Mosley will share her own journey as well as discuss reviewing inspirational fiction in today's market.

Shelley has co-written several non-fiction books: The Suffragists in Literature for Youth: The Fight for the Vote; Romance Today: An A-Z Guide to Contemporary American Romance Writers; The Complete Idiot’s Guide to the Ultimate Reading List; and Crash Course in Library Supervision. Shelley also reviews for Booklist and Library Journal and writes for What Do I Read Next? and Novelist. Shelley, RWA's 2001 Librarian of the Year, retired after more than twenty years as a library manager to work part-time as a reference librarian at the Glendale Community College Library Media Center and devote more hours to her family and her writing. Shelley also co-writes romantic comedies as half of the writing team Deborah Shelley. Their first book, Talk about Love, was a Holt Medallion Finalist. Their most recent was published by Avalon. Their romances have been translated into Danish, French, Dutch, Norwegian, Russian, and Portuguese.

Our meeting is at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome

1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship

1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting

2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Shelley Mosley

Please invite friends!

Have a blessed week!

Pamela Tracy

Urgent change in schedule for July meeting!

2010-07-09T22:54:00.000-06:00

Howdy All,

Today I received a phone call from Marie Callendar's. They are closing their doors on the 25th. I went ahead and reserved the smaller room for the 24th just to make sure we had a meeting this month. So, without further ado, here's the blurb. I'm so sorry about the change. Please be thinking about where we'd like to meet instead. They do have a Chandler location. We can revisit our earlier choices and come up with some new ones.

This is your friendly reminder about the meeting July 24th. You don't want to miss this one. Our speaker will be Shelley Mosley, a multi-published author of many genres. Her topic: The road to being published is long, winding, and often rough. Writer/reviewer Shelley Mosley will share her own journey as well as discuss reviewing inspirational fiction in today's market.

Here's what you need to know about Shelley and why she'll be a great speaker for us:

Shelley has co-written several non-fiction books: The Suffragists in Literature for Youth: The Fight for the Vote; Romance Today: An A-Z Guide to Contemporary American Romance Writers; The Complete Idiot’s Guide to the Ultimate Reading List; and Crash Course in Library Supervision. Shelley’s co-writers include John Charles, Sandra Van Winkle, and Joanne Hamilton-Selway (a.k.a. “Team Mosley”). Dennis C. Tucker co-wrote Crash Course in Library Supervision. Shelley also reviews for Booklist and Library Journal and writes for What Do I Read Next? and Novelist. Shelley, RWA's 2001 Librarian of the Year, retired after more than twenty years as a library manager to work part-time as a reference librarian at the Glendale Community College Library Media Center and devote more hours to her family and her writing.

Shelley also co-writes romantic comedies as half of the writing team Deborah Shelley. Their first book, Talk about Love, was a Holt Medallion Finalist. Their most recent was published by Avalon. Their romances have been translated into Danish, French, Dutch, Norwegian, Russian, and Portuguese.

Our meeting is at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome

1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship

1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting

2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Shelley Mosley

Quck reminder about this weekend's CWOW meeting.

2010-05-18T07:17:00.009-06:00

Hello All!

Yeah! It's summer. School ended last Friday and I'm free, until June 1st that is when I have to go back. This time as a student instead of teacher.

Now, down to business. This your friendly reminder about the meeting this coming Saturday, May 22. We had a few blips along the way. We originally planned it for the 29th, and then found out many (including the speaker!) couldn't make it because of the Memorial Day weekend. So, we changed it to the 22nd. Then, we found out the room was already booked. The board went back and forth about what to do: move the date again? go to a different restaurant? go ahead and do the side room? We decided to stay at Marie's and do the side room.

Our speaker will be Cathy McDavid, a multi-published author of many genres. She writes both westerns and paranormals for Dorchester, plus she writes hearth and home for Harlequin American. She'll be taking us through a detailed instruction of how to write a top-notch synopsis.

Our meeting is May 22, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome

1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship

1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting

2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Cathy McDavid

Have a blessed week!

Last minute schedule for tomorrow's meeting.

2010-03-26T08:06:00.002-06:00

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:30 - Speaker: Donna Schlachter

Donna Schlachter will be speaking to us about Identifying Your Passion. "Writing comes from deep within – good writing comes from your soul. Donna will take you through a series of exercises to help you identify what you are most passionate about, and then direct you as you search for markets who are looking for exactly what you write.
Handouts will include questions to help the writer identify their own passions, and a listing of potential markets, as well as workshop points."

Information about the March 27th meeting's guest speaker.

2010-03-13T11:06:00.005-07:00

The Presenter is...

Donna Schlachter (rhymes with doctor)

Topic is...

Identifying Your Passion

Writing comes from deep within – good writing comes from your soul. Donna will take you through a series of exercises to help you identify what you are most passionate about, and then direct you as you search for markets who are looking for exactly what you write.

Handouts will include questions to help the writer identify their own passions, and a listing of potential markets, as well as workshop points.

About the presenter

Donna’s passion is for story-telling, and she is currently working on a historical romantic suspense set in Denver in 1956. She has written two books in a cozy mystery series, and the first book in a romantic suspense series. In addition, she has published two devotional books with husband Patrick, and has a number of magazine credits.

Donna’s speaking experience includes leading a women’s ministry, Sunday meditations, speaking at her local writers group, book signing events, and leading a training seminar for legal transcribers.

Donna lives in Denver, Colorado, and attends New Life Church of Denver. She was recently naturalized as a US Citizen, having moved from eastern Canada to Denver ten years ago at the Lord’s calling to marry her husband Patrick. She is active in various church ministries, including the worship team, advisory board, food ministry, children’s church, and sound ministry.

Donna has two adult daughters and seven grandchildren who give her an excuse to travel to Kansas and Florida.

Rattlers contest winners!

2010-03-07T14:48:00.002-07:00

Phoenix Rattler – Does your story have bite?

2010 Winners

Contemporary Fiction

1st Place

SEASON OF SURRENDER by Mary Proctor

2nd Place

ROMANCE ON A DISTANT RIVER by Lee Carver

3rd place

SURVIVING CARMELITA by Susan Miura

Historical Fiction

First Place

BEYOND A RIVER by Michelle Shocklee

Second Place

NIGHTSHADE by Debra E Marvin

Third place

THE SAMURAI'S HEART by Walt Mussell

Young Adult

First Place

THE WISHING SEA by Durga Walker

Second Place

CALEUCHE REDEMPTION by Colleen Shine Phillips

Third place

TALE OF A MAN by Deborah Anderson

Fantasy/Allegory/Science Fiction

First Place

COUNTING TESSA by Tina Pinson

Second Place

The Lightstone of Perlan by Dona Watson

Third Place

METAMORPHISIS by Chawna Schroeder

Suspense/Thriller/Mystery

First Place

NO TURNING BACK by Katie Vorreiter

Second Place

ANOTHER SUN by Katie Vorreiter

Third Place

DEAD WEIGHT by Lynda Schab

Women’s Fiction

First Place

THROUGH THE VALLEY by Sarah Forgrave

Second Place

THREE WISHES by Lynda Schab

Third Place

THE BLUE LAKE JOURNALS by Cathleen Armstrong

Latest info about the January 23rd meeting!

2010-01-20T08:13:00.001-07:00

What better way to start the New Year than with a kick-off meeting of the 2010 CWOW group! Come one, come all! We're going to have a great time.

Our meeting is January 23, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome

1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship

1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting

2:00 - 3:30 - Speaker: Mona Hodgson

Mona Hodgson is the author of two historical novels and 28 children’s books, including Real Girls of the Bible, Bedtime in the Southwest, and six Zonderkidz I Can Read books. Mona's debut novel, Two Brides Too Many, published by WaterBrook Press, is available exclusively at Walmart stores until May 2010. You won't want to miss the meeting Saturday, January 23rd, where Mona will share her inspiring publishing, journey ( specifically goals, children's writing, segueing into her historical career) with us.

Meeting info you need to know for the January 23, 2010 meeting!

2010-01-12T20:48:00.001-07:00

What better way to start the New Year than with a kick-off meeting of the 2010 CWOW group! Come one, come all! We're going to have a great time.

We have plenty of things to think and talk about.

1) The upcoming Desert Rose conference where Robin Lee Hatcher will be speaking at least three times (once exclusively for ACFW members). Also, Steve Laube will be taking agent appointments and giving a workshop. If you bring your registration to the meeting, I'll turn it over to the registration person.
1a) Let's put together a Christian themed raffle basket. If you have a book or anything (bookmarks, devotionals, etc) bring them to the meeting on the 23rd and I'll include it in the basket along with your name).

2) Updates on the contest. What an amazing job Sheri and Kathleen did. I'm in awe.

3) Tiff Colter asked me to remind you about the Masters' Seminar. Here's the info:
"This event is discounted to $349 and goes from Friday to Saturday January 22-23. We will start just after lunch Friday and go until about 4 or 5 Saturday which means less time missed at work but lots of time to learn. Benefits of the seminar: + Maximum of 16 people with 2 speakers [Top agent Chip MacGregor and Bestselling author Susan May Warren] + The event is discounted more than $200. + Negotiated special room rates for participants which include cooked to order breakfast and reception in the evening. I have more details about the event here. http://eepurl.com/gnhx You can also go to our website www.TheMasterSeminars.com

Our meeting is January 23, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:30 - Speaker: Mona Hodgson

Mona Hodgson is the author of two historical novels and 28 children’s books, including Real Girls of the Bible, Bedtime in the Southwest, and six Zonderkidz I Can Read books. Mona's debut novel, Two Brides Too Many, published by WaterBrook Press, is available exclusively at Walmart stores until May 2010. You won't want to miss the meeting Saturday, January 23rd, where Mona will share her inspiring publishing, journey ( specifically goals, children's writing, segueing into her historical career) with us.

Finalists for the annual Phoenix Rattler, Does Your Story Have Bite? contest!

2009-12-28T23:27:00.005-07:00

Congratulations to all the entrants in the first annual Phoenix Rattler, Does Your Story Have Bite? contest. Below are the finalists (Listed in Alphabetical order) who have advanced to the final round.

Winners will be announced in February 2010.

Contemporary Fiction:
1. Romance on a Distant River, by Lee Carver
2. Season of Surrender, by Mary Proctor
3. Surviving Carmilita, by Susan Miura

Historical Fiction:
1. Beyond a River, by Michelle Shocklee
2. Nightshade, by Debra Marvin
3. Samurai’s Heart, by Walt Mussell

Suspense/Thriller/Mystery:
1. Another Sun, by Katie Vorreiter
2. Dead Weight, by Lynda Schab
3. No turning Back, by Katie Vorreiter

Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Allegory:
1. Counting Tessa, by Tina Pinson
2. Metamorphisis, by Chawna Schroeder
3. The Lightstone of Perlan, by Dona Watson

Young Adult:
1. Caleuche Redemption, by Colleen Shine Phillips
2. Tale of a Man, by Deborah Anderson
3. The Wishing Sea, by Durga Walker

Women’s Fiction:
1. The Blue Lake Journals, by Cathleen Armstrong
2. Three Wishes, by Lynda Schab
3. Through the Valley, by Sarah Forgrave

Results from the Phoenix Rattlers Contest...

2009-12-22T21:16:00.000-07:00

Results from The Phoenix Rattler will be announced in the next few days. Thanks for your patience.

Tentative schedule for next year's meetings...

2009-12-09T12:34:00.001-07:00

January 30, 2010

March 27, 2010

May 29, 2010

July 31, 2010

September 25, 2010

November 27, 2010 (date may change due to Thanksgiving)

Dec???? Christmas Party

Reminder about Saturday, Dec. 5th meeting!

2009-12-03T22:10:00.000-07:00

Hello All!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Okay, truth, Phoenix can only pretend. What's not pretend, though, is the caliber of speakers we have for our December 5th meeting. Wow.

Our meeting is December 5, at 12 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

CWOW’s Saturday Schedule
10:00 - 12:00 Signing at B&N - 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe AZ (Please come)
12:00 - 1:30 lunch, business meeting, and Christmas party (Since we have such dynamite speakers, the Christmas party will be low key.)

1:30 - 2:45 Speaker Amanda Cabot - Great Beginnings or How to Hook an Editor – Have you heard that an editor can make a decision based on the first three pages? It’s true. By the end of the workshop, you’ll understand the common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

3:00- 4:45 Speaker Tosca Lee - Powerful Characterization. You may not love them, but readers must be able to identify with them. How do you do that—especially for the unlikable ones? The author of Demon: A Memoir, Havah: The Story of Eve, and the upcoming Iscariot shares her secret.

Please invite friends! These ladies promise to entertain and education. Friends can attend this one for free!

Have a blessed week!

Pamela Tracy - Monday's Craftie Lady

Meet Amanda Cabot and Tosca Lee on Dec 5th in Mesa, Arizona!

2009-11-10T20:23:00.001-07:00

~December 5th, 2009~
Everything that you don’t want to miss!

From 10 - 12, Historical author Amanda Cabot will be signing books at the Barnes and Noble at Tempe Marketplace (2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe AZ)

That’s Not All!

After Amanda’s Booksigning, she’ll head to the Christian Writer’s of the West meeting (Marie Callendar’s 865 S. Dobson in Mesa) and talk about Great Beginnings or How to Hook an Editor – Have you heard that an editor can make a decision based on the first three pages? It’s true. By the end of the workshop, you’ll understand the common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Can You Believe It? There’s More!

Author Tosca Lee will also be joining us.

Tosca will share with the group her talk on Powerful Characterization. You may not love them, but readers must be able to identify with them. How do you do that—especially for the unlikable ones? The author of Demon: A Memoir, Havah: The Story of Eve, and the upcoming Iscariot shares her secret.

CWOW’s Saturday Schedule
10:00 - 12:00 Signing at B&N
12:00 - 1:30 lunch, business meeting, and Christmas party
1:30 - 2:45 Speaker Amanda Cabot
3:00- 4:45 Speaker Tosca Lee

Here is a podcast of one of the CWOW members.

2009-10-24T20:38:00.006-06:00

It’s Not About Me/It’s Not About Him

Posted using ShareThis

Here is the tentative schedule for the Dec 5th meeting!

2009-10-11T15:55:00.007-06:00

Here's the schedule for the December 5th CWOW meeting.

12:00 - 1:30 lunch, business meeting, and Christmas party

1:30 - 2:45 Speaker Tosca Lee

2:45 - 3:00 Break

3:00- 4:45 Speaker Amanda Cabot... She talks about Great Beginnings or How to Hook an Editor – Have you heard that an editor can make a decision based on the first three pages? It’s true. Join Amanda Cabot for a light-hearted look at great and not-so-great beginnings. By the end of the workshop, you’ll understand the common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

About the CWOW meeting this Saturday in Mesa, AZ!

2009-09-23T08:05:00.001-06:00

Here's your friendly neighborhood update about Saturday's meeting. Along with the speaker, you'll get to hear [1] reports from those attending the Denver conference. [2] what's happening with our conference. [3] about our special December meeting with not one but TWO out-of-town speakers [4] Jen Cary talk about her new release [5] and we need to be looking at putting together elections for next year's board.

Our meeting is September 26, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:30 - Speaker: Pamela Tracy

Pamela Tracy just this past weekend took home the American Christian Fiction Writers' first place award (Book of the Year) for short romantic suspense. Her March 2008 release Broken Lullaby earned the honor
Pamela's first book was published by Barbour a decade ago. Since that time, she's published eighteen more.

This Saturday, Pamela will do a hands-on workshop designed to move your novel forward dealing with plot points, details, black moments, and more. Feel free to bring the novel you're working on and prepare to tweak.

A new book is releasing with a member's story included.

2009-09-22T06:52:00.003-06:00

Isn't this cool?

Christmas Miracles is coming soon to a Walmart and Sam's Club near you....Release date is October 13, 2009. Our very own Jen Cary has a story in this compilation titled Ian's Christmas.

Pics from the ACFW Conference this past weekend in Denver!

2009-09-21T21:58:00.010-06:00

Lots of fun stuff occurred in Denver this year, but watching our Chapter President (CWOW) Pam Tracey win the Book of the Year for 2009 topped everything!

Dessert the night of the Awards banquet

Pam Tracey - CWOW Pres (BOTY winner) with Lynn Rush, CWOW member

Lynn Rush with Michelle Sutton (dang we look good!)

Avily Jerome, Pam Tracey (BOTY winner), and Lynn Rush

Lynn Rush and Avily Jerome

There you have it folks, just a few pics from the ACFW conference!

Join us in September for our next CWOW meeting!

2009-09-02T08:00:00.004-06:00

Lots of exciting things coming up.

[1] Summary of the Denver conference.

[2] Our first chapter contest .

[3] Robin Lee Hatcher will be attending the Desert Rose Conference per our request.

Our meeting is September 26, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:30 - Speaker: Pamela Tracy - Plotting Your Book from Beginning to End

Pamela Tracy is a writer and teacher in Scottsdale, Arizona, where she lives with her husband and son. She was raised in Omaha, Nebraska, and started writing fiction while earning a BA in Journalism at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas.

Her first novel It Only Takes a Spark was published in 1999. Since then she’s published eighteen more works in contemporary, historical, and suspense fiction. Her most recent book - August 2009 - is Fugitive Family a Love Inspired Suspense romance. In December of 2009, Clandestine Cover-Up hits the stands. Her March 2007 release, Pursuit of Justice, was a RITA finalist and also took second in the ACFW’s Book of the Year short suspense category. Last year’s Broken Lullaby is currently up for the ACFW Book of the Year in the short suspense category.

Besides writing, teaching, and taking care of her family, she is often asked to speak at various writers’ organizations in the Phoenix area. She belongs to Romance Writers of America and the American Christian Fiction Writers. She is president of the local ACFW chapter, Christian Writers of the West (CWOW).

Pics from the July CWOW meeting.

2009-08-02T20:48:00.003-06:00

The CWOW ladies (and guy) from our July 2009 meeting

2009-07-25T21:45:00.001-06:00

Aren't we a nice-looking bunch! We had one camera shy participant today.

One last reminder about this Saturday's meeting.

2009-07-23T23:24:00.001-06:00

Don't forget to mark your calendars for this Saturday's CWOW meeting, July 25, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:30 - Speaker: Donna Goodrich

Donna Clark Goodrich is a free-lance writer, editor, and proofreader. A native of Jackson, Michigan, she moved to Kansas City, Missouri at the age of 20 to work as secretary to the book editor at the Nazarene Publishing House. Typing a term paper for a seminary student led to her meeting Gary Goodrich, whom she married in 1960. Now residents of Mesa, Arizona, they have three children and two granddaughters. Donna began the annual Arizona Christian Writers Seminar in 1982 which she led for seven years. She has also been instrumental in helping to form Christian writers clubs in many cities. The author of 20 books and over 700 articles and short stories, she is a frequent instructor at Christian writers conferences across the United States. Her greatest love is working with beginning writers and helping them to spread the gospel through the printed page.

Email: dgood648@aol.com

Donna Goodrich is the speaker for the July 2009 CWOW meeting!

2009-07-08T20:12:00.001-06:00

Here's the reminder about our July meeting. We're in for quite a treat. I first heard Donna speak at an American Christian Fiction conference many years ago. Then, a few years ago, I heard her speak at the Southwestern Authors' Conference. She's a wealth of information.

Besides Donna, we have lots of happenings to think about. [1] Upcoming Denver conference (They want us to help man a booth about our chapter! ) [2] Putting together our first chapter contest (This will help start seed our first conference.) [3] critique groups[4] Contest finals.

Our meeting is July 25, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:30 - Speaker: Donna Goodrich

Donna Clark Goodrich is a free-lance writer, editor, and proofreader. A native of Jackson, Michigan, she moved to Kansas City, Missouri at the age of 20 to work as secretary to the book editor at the Nazarene Publishing House. Typing a term paper for a seminary student led to her meeting Gary Goodrich, whom she married in 1960. Now residents of Mesa, Arizona, they have three children and two granddaughters. Donna began the annual Arizona Christian Writers Seminar in 1982 which she led for seven years. She has also been instrumental in helping to form Christian writers clubs in many cities. The author of 20 books and over 700 articles and short stories, she is a frequent instructor at Christian writers conferences across the United States. Her greatest love is working with beginning writers and helping them to spread the gospel through the printed page. Email: dgood648@aol.com

Next meeting - information for May 2009 gathering

2009-05-17T21:53:00.003-06:00

Every time I post a reminder about our meetings, I'm excited about our speaker, but this time.... Wow. Big thanks to Brenda Jackson for arranging Nancy Turner for our group. You don't want to miss this one.

Besides Nancy, we have lots of happenings to think about. [1] Upcoming Denver conference (They want us to help man a booth about our chapter! ) [2] Putting together our first chapter contest (This will help start seed our first conference.) [3] One of our new members is inviting us to Prescott for a Writers' Tea in July (at a lodge even!). [4] Someone (nope I'm not telling) is going to announce a sale!

Our meeting is May 30, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:30 - Speaker: Nancy Turner

Nancy Turner is best known for her three novels based on the character of Sarah Agnes Prine: These Is My Words Sarah's Quilt and The Star Garden

These Is My Words was selected Arizona OneBook for 2008 and Ms. Turner spent a busy year traveling all over the state. Ms. Turner will be speaking to CWOW members on dual topics:
1. How to take journals and diaries and use them to write a novel.
2. How to write believable women in historical fiction.

Please invite friends! Nancy is quite a draw... because we're bringing her in from out of town and such, in order to pay her fee, the members at the last meeting decided to open this meeting to guests. We're hoping that if each guest pays $10.00, then her fee will be met. We need at least 10 guests. I am bringing two... Dhyana is bringing one or two... How about you?

Have a blessed week!

Pamela Tracy

Reminder about May 30th meeting featuring Nancy Turner

2009-05-09T20:24:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder that we have a terrific speaker coming up for our May 30th meeting. You may invite guests to attend at a cost of $10.00.

Nancy Turner is best known for her three novels based on the character of Sarah Agnes Prine:

These Is My Words
Sarah's Quilt
The Star Garden

These Is My Words was selected Arizona OneBook for 2008 and Ms. Turner spent a busy year traveling all over the state.

Ms. Turner will be speaking to CWOW members on dual topics:

1. How to take journals and diaries and use them to write a novel.
2. How to write believable women in historical fiction.
Here is a brief bio from her website (http://www.nancyeturner.net):

Nancy Elaine Turner was born in Dallas, Texas and grew up in Southern California and Arizona. She began writing fiction as an assignment for a class at Pima Community College and completed a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts Studies from the University of Arizona in 1999 with a triple major in Creative Writing, Music, and Studio Art. She lives in Tucson with her husband and Snickers, a dog rescued by F.A.I.R. She has two married children and four grandchildren. She also enjoys the outdoors, theater, movies, and antiques.

"Writing historical fiction is much like working on a term paper every day. My story is never far from my mind. I create characters by mingling traits of people. I love all my characters, too, especially those with complexity that makes them seem all the more real. I believe the locale of a story can be as much a part of the book as a character, and I use settings I know well enough to describe in detail."

Ms. Turner will have books available for sale at the meeting.

Hope you all can make it!

Pictures of author Michelle Sutton with teen fan of "It's Not About Me" in Phoenix, Arizona

2009-04-01T18:03:00.002-06:00

Last weekend I was in Phoenix, Arizona for a writer's meeting and I detoured to meet a "fan" and autograph a few books. Here is a picture of me with Candice. She's 19 and a freshman in college, which is the perfect age for my series so I was thrilled that she'd read my book several times. She's nice and very pretty, isn't she? I love meeting people in person who have enjoyed the books I've written. The first question I always get, though, is "when's the next book coming out?" To which I answer, "September." So if you enjoyed It's Not About Me, be sure to keep an eye out for It's Not About Him coming this fall.

Information on the upcoming March meeting

2009-04-01T00:10:00.002-06:00

Nancy Turner of These Be My Words is our speaker for May! Brenda Jackson has put lots of time into getting this well-known and sought after speaker. We can bring guests but they need to pay $10 to be included (this does not include meal). Money collected goes toward her fee and travel.

"These is my Words" Voted ONE BOOK AZ for 2008!

Read more about it...OneBookAz

Nancy Elaine Turner was born in Dallas, Texas and grew up in Southern California and Arizona. She began writing fiction as an assignment for a class at Pima Community College and completed a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts Studies in 1999 with a triple major in Creative Writing, Music, and Studio Art. She lives in Tucson with her husband and Snickers, a dog rescued by F.A.I.R. She has two married children and four brilliant grandchildren. She also enjoys the outdoors, theater, movies, and antiques.

Schedule of meetings for the year - 2009.

2009-03-21T20:12:00.002-06:00

There have been a couple of emails with questions that are easy to answer and making the answers public might benefit everyone.

We decided at the end of last year to meet every other month on the last Saturday of that month. So, if you can remember that we started in January, it's easy to figure out the meetings for the whole year:

Jan 31, Mar. 28, May 30, July 25, Sept 26, Nov. 28, and we'll probably also have a Christmas gathering which is not a Saturday afternoon.

Michelle Sutton's upcoming September release has a cover!

2009-03-16T20:52:00.000-06:00

This is a combination of #1 and #4. Based on the votes, those were the two most popular covers and received the most favorable results over all. So here you go! (Yes, she is supposed to look pregnant, but not that far along)

Schedule for the March CWOW Meeting at Marie Callendar's

2009-03-14T17:08:00.002-06:00

March Madness has begun! The weather is hot/cold/in-between. I write in the morning with the heater on. I write in the afternoon with the outside door open. Only in Arizona .Anyhoo, this is your friendly reminder about the meeting March 28. Michelle Gregory is our speaker. Here's what she has to say:

My name is Michelle Gregory. I am a mom of three, married to a wonderful man, and trying to fit writing into a life filled with taekwondo and guitar practices, doctor appointments, church responsibilities, and homeschooling my kids. Before 2005, I had no idea that I wanted to write, or that I even had a story in me. Since writing my first novel, I’ve discovered that I have many stories inside me (and they’re all clamoring for my attention). In the process of publising my novel through Lulu.com, I learned some of the ins and outs of Internet publishing, e-books, and Kindle. I’ve also discovered that I have not only a passion for writing, but also a passion for encouraging moms and teens to write. I’d like to share my experiences and passion with you. So please join me for my two-part talk: “How a mom who didn’t know she could write ended up on Amazon.com.” & “Now I’ve written a novel and I don’t know what to do with it.” I will have copies of my fantasy novel Eldala available for sale. The price is $15.00. Here’s a link on Amazon.com where you can search inside and also read reviews: Eldala by Michelle Gregory.

Our meeting is at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson). Remember to ask for the big meeting room.

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business meeting
2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Michelle Gregory

Please invite friends! Sandra's already reserved our room.

Have a blessed week!

Pamela

Here are a few pics from an author panel Michelle Sutton was on at Buena High School today, March 11, 2009.

2009-03-11T23:04:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to share a few pics from the author panel today. It was a long day of speaking with six classes and about 300 students total, but well worth the while.

Update on future meetings and speakers from the CWOW Prez.

2009-03-11T17:18:00.001-06:00

Our next CWOW meeting is March 28th - just two weeks from now. Our own Michelle Gregory will be the speaker. Her topic is "My Writing Journey and How the Internet has Changed Publishing."

On May 30th, Brenda Jackson has arranged for Nancy Turner, author of These Is My Words, to be our speaker.

On July 25th, Donna Goodrich, well-known speaker/writer, will be our speaker. She's presenting her popular workshop: "Writing for the Inspirational Market"? In that I give suggestions on a variety of writing--fiction, nonfiction, devotionals/fillers, humor, poetry, newspaper, interviewing, travel, children, and personal experience.

You could win something special if you help your fellow CWOW member here!

2009-01-29T21:31:00.002-07:00

What is that special item? You guessed right. It's a copy of my book. I know we all think our books are special. I kinda like mine. :) Anyway, I am looking for some new promotion ideas. I need to know if you have a private school library or church library that might benefit from a copy of my book. Or how about a youth group or a book club? If you have some effective way to help me keep getting the word out about my book I'll send you an autographed copy for yourself, or if you already have a copy I will send you one to share with a friend. The important thing is to write me with a great idea. The best ideas will all win a promo copy, unless I have so many I have to pare it down. In that case I'd put the best in a bowl and randomly pick a few. So don't be shy people. . . write me at joyfulhutch[at]msn[dot]com and tell me your idea privately to get a chance to win. You can post here that you are interested but that won't get you in the contest. Sending me your brief proposal (on how you can help me keep spreading the word) is how to get your name in to win a copy. I know there are a bizillion giveaways out there, but this one is special to me, so purty please, tell me what you can do and my book could be yours soon.

To find out more about my book or to read over 50 reviews, click on this LINK

Picture from Pamela Tracey's book signing on January 16th.

2009-01-18T20:21:00.002-07:00

Here is a picture of our beloved CWOW President, Pamela Tracey. She is standing next to Lynn Rush, a member of CWOW.

January 24th's CWOW meeting features Terry Whalin!

2009-01-10T10:19:00.002-07:00

Our next meeting is almost here! Mark your calendars.

This is your friendly reminder about the meeting January 24th. You don't want to miss this one. Our speaker will be Terry Whalin, a multi-published author who for years worked as an agent and ran his own agency.

Now he is a publisher for Intemedia Publishing Group . He'll be talking about "The Eight Characteristics of a Successful Writer." Along with his talk, he's bringing his latest book Jumpstart Your Publishing Dreams. It's a March 2009 release, so if you want, you can get it before the bookstores. It costs $19.95. Here's a link that will tell you all about the book. TerryLinks.com

Our meeting is January 24, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson). It won by one vote! Sandra, will you please make the reservation. Thanks!

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Terry Whalin

Please invite friends!

Have a blessed week!

Pamela Tracy - CWOW President & Monday and Friday's Craftie Lady

CWOW White Elephant Christmas party!

2008-12-07T12:05:00.007-07:00

Some of the CWOW girls get together for Christmas. From Left to Right: Leslie, Laura (aka Avily Jerome), Kathleen, Sheri (aka Lynn Rush), and Pamela Tracey (CWOW President).

Announcements! Don't miss them!

2008-10-30T23:00:00.003-06:00

Our next meeting will be January 24th. Since we outgrew our meeting room at Marie Callendar's, we're looking for a new place. We did a quick survey at the last meeting and decided the middle ground for members is about the 101 and Shea. I'll let you know as soon as I get the place.

Our speaker will be Terry Whalin.

He'll be talking about jump-starting your career and such.

Terry has written more than 60 nonfiction books plus published in more than 50 magazines. For five years, he's been an acquisitions editor at a book publisher, and now he is a literary agent at Whalin Literary Agency. Terry encourages writers of any level (from beginners to professionals) at Right-Writing.com. To help people pursue their own dreams of a published book, Terry has written Book Proposals That $ell, 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success.

Next, we're having our very first Christmas Party on December 6.

CWOW WHITE ELEPHANT CHRISTMAS PARTY
Date: Saturday December 6th, 2008.
Time: 7pm
What to Bring: Your favorite Hors d’oeuvre to share and a white elephant gift
Location: Sheri Boeyink’s house (aka Lynn Rush) in Peoria (for the exact address just e-mail Lynn Rush or Pamela Tracy.)
Soda, tea, water to be provided. If you want something stronger, bring it along.

RSVP by: December 1st so we can plan accordingly. E-mail sheriboeyink@cox.net
We'll be starting a "I'm bringing list..." very soon. Sheri will be posting more.

Last, if you're looking for some writing activities, here are two Third Annual Fall Writers WorkshopsKeynote speaker: Vicki Lewis Thompson
Scottsdale Civic Center Library
3839 Drinkwater Boulevard
Scottsdale, AZ
Saturday, November 15, 2008 9:30 to 4:30

9:30 am - Free Coffee and Tea from THE COFFEE BEAN & TEA LEAF

10 to 10:50 AM
DYNAMIC WRITER'S WEBSITE - Vijaya Schartz
HOW TO STRUCTURE A COMPELLING NOVEL - Connie Flynn

11 to 11:50 AM
TURNING REJECTION INTO GOLD - Laurie Schnebly
TERMS OF ENGAGEMENT - Linda Style
AUTHOR PANEL - Tina Lavon, Kim Watters, Carol Webb, Erin Grady, Pamela Tracy, Tina Gerow, Kerrie Droban

12 noon to 1:15 pm - LUNCH BREAK - Lunch on your own

1:30 Main program
HOW TO BECOME AN OVERNIGHT SUCCESS IN 25 YEARS OR LESS
Vicki Lewis Thompson

2:30 to 3:20 pm
BLOGGING 101 FOR WRITERS - Tina Lavon, Kim Watters, Carol Webb
VILLAINS HAVE FEELINGS, TOO - Kerrie Droban
AUTHOR PANEL - Vijaya Schartz, Connie Flynn, Roz Denny Fox, C.C.Harrison, Linda Style, Susan Yarina

3:30 to 4:20 pm
WRITING SUSPENSE ROMANCE - Pamela Kaye Tracy
THE HEART OF YOUR STORY - Erin Grady
PLOTTING, THE RIGHT WAY, THE WRONG WAY, AND WHAT WORKS FOR YOU - Tina Gerow

The location:
Scottsdale Civic Center Library - downstairs
3839 Drinkwater Boulevard
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Free admission - no registration necessary - first come first serve.
Free workshops open to all writers of fiction!
2nd Annual Southeast Regional Library Author PanelsNovember 22, 20081-4 PM
Southeast Regional Library775 N Greenfield Rd Gilbert, AZ 85234602-652-3000
Website
Panels at 1 PM and 2:30 PM with book signings immediately followingFeatured authors: Kim Watters, CC Harrison, Eden Robins, Calista Fox, Annette Mahon, Erin Quinn, Rox Denny Fox, Cathy McDavid, Linda Style, Pamela Tracy

Pics from the October 4th CWOW meeting.

2008-10-05T17:20:00.008-06:00

We had a great chat about edgy stuff.

Listening to the Pres.

Talking around the table

We're just about to eat here.

Sorry this pic is so blurry but I had a cheapo camera.

Another hard to see pic, but not so bad

Here is a pic of me with some of my CWOW writer friends at the booksigning after the meeting. There were more ladies there, but I only added this pic because there were no pics of me in any of the other photos cause I was taking the pics!

Left to right. Tracy, Michelle S., Sheri (Lynn) and Michelle G.

Michelle Sutton is the speaker for the October 4th meeting.

2008-09-12T19:46:00.005-06:00

It's September! Last night a dust storm blew into Phoenix and my family sat in the cool outdoors, ate a little dirt, and rejoiced that summer just might be tapering off.

This is your friendly reminder about the meeting October 4th. You don't want to miss this one. Our speaker will be Michelle Sutton, a newly published author of Young Adult. She's a lady who wears many hats. Not only is she a writer (besides working full-time and raising two boys and keeping a husband happy) but she's also Editor in Chief of Christian Fiction Online magazine, Volunteer Officer on the ACFW board, book reviewer, avid blogger/alliance member, web designer, wife, marketing director, social worker by trade, and follower of Jesus Christ. Best known for her numerous Edgy Author review sites and her Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers groups, she also gives away two books per week on her blog and posts numerous reviews on edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com

Her topic is two-fold. She'll start with Marketing Before You Sell and end with Writing For the CBA Young Adult Market.

Our meeting is October 4th, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Michelle Sutton

See you then! Invite a friend.

Pamela Tracey

Further details about October meeting in Mesa.

2008-08-18T21:05:00.004-06:00

The October 4th meeting for CWOW will be held at Marie Callendar's in Mesa, Arizona from 1 pm - 3 pm. I'll be the speaker and I'll be talking about making a name for yourself in the fiction world before you sell your first manuscript. I'll also be talking briefly about my book, It's Not About Me, which happens to be available NOW if you order it on Barnes and Noble.com!

See you there.

Info you need for the October meeting.

2008-07-19T20:09:00.004-06:00

Our next meeting is October 4th. Michelle Sutton who wears many, many hats will be our speaker. She is Volunteer Officer on the ACFW board, and the face behind the Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers writers network. She wears the Editor in Chief hat for the new Christian Fiction Online Magazine everyone is talking about. She's also a powerhouse fiction reviewer. And, her first young adult novel, It's Not About Me, hits the shelves in September. She'll be talking both about marketing yourself before you sell your first novel and she'll share a little bit about the sale of her book.

Connie Flynn is the CWOW presenter for the July 2008 meeting in Mesa, Arizona!

2008-06-15T20:37:00.004-06:00

BIOGRAPHY:

Connie Flynn, the best-selling author of ten romance novels with a penchant for creating page turners with a twist, is most known for her paranormal novels including SHADOW ON THE MOON, SHADOW OF THE WOLF, THE FIRE OPAL and THE DRAGON HOUR (all from Penguin/Topaz), which won the coveted PRISM Award for best time-travel romance of 2000. Currently, Connie is working on a female detective suspense series and a screenplay based on her short story, Old Bones, which appeared in the mystery anthology MAP OF MURDER (Red Coyote Press). Connie is in her fifth year of teaching creative writing classes at Phoenix College. Periodically, she teaches Bootcamp for Novelists, a day-long seminar concentrated on formulating your novel.

Connie began writing in the spring of 1985. Formerly a graphic artist who later moved into management, she thanks the down-sizing trend for launching her career. Her uncertain job future sent her searching for "what I wanted to be when I grew up." After a series of aptitude tests, she re-discovered the writing talent she'd abandoned in the fourth grade, and went directly to the computer. In 1988, Harlequin purchased the results Homecoming, a contemporary Romeo-and-Juliet story set on a Wyoming ranch. With the publication of the "fabulous" and "remarkable" Shadow on the Moon by Penguin/Topaz in March of 1997, critics are calling Connie Flynn "a talented writer" and "a rising star."

A member of Romance Writers of America and Sisters in Crime, Connie is active in the local chapters of both organizations. She also belongs to Novelist, Inc., and The Writers' Guild. She has conducted classes and workshops on novel writing at a local community college and has spoken at a number of conferences, including Memphis' Duel on the Delta, Wisconsin's The Write Touch, The Arizona Library Association convention and the Arizona RWA Chapter's Desert Dreams conference.

Connie is a lifelong Arizona resident and currently lives in Scottsdale, where she enjoys writing on her patio when the weather is cool.
For more information on Connie Flynn and her classes, visit connieflynn.com.

4-STEP QUICKIE PLOTTING: This quickie method gives you boxes to organize all those crazy ideas into a plot that brings depth to your characters.

April Meeting announcement!

2008-04-09T21:57:00.002-06:00

Hello All! It's April, and that means our meeting! Go ahead, let's hear the applause.

Anyhoo, this is your friendly reminder about the meeting April 26th. You don't want to miss this one. Our speaker will be Sandra LeeSmith.

HONORING YOUR GIFT BELIEVING YOUR DREAM

In the eighties Sandra published two Harlequin Temptations, two Warner mainstreams and 21 self-help books for teens by Rosen Publishing. After her epiphany and Christ in her life she left writing to finish her teaching career. Upon retiring she has aspired to break into the inspirational market. She has survived numerous rejections to publish two children's books. Jesus Saves and God's Spirit Within Me. Sandra is happy to share her experiences with honoring her gift of writing and believing in her dream to share God's love with others.

Our meeting at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Sandra LeeSmith

Please invite friends! Sandra's already reserved our room.

Pamela Tracy gets a whoo hoo! Congratulations!

2008-03-26T12:58:00.004-06:00

Her book was not only picked up by Thorndike and is now available in hard cover, but see below!

2008 RITA for Inspirational Romance Finalists

A Touch of Grace by Linda Goodnight
Harlequin Enterprises, Steeple Hill Love Inspired - (978-0-373-87426-2)
Allison Lyons, editor

Autumn Blue by Karen Harter
Center Street, - (1-931722-61-7)
Christina Boys, editor

Pursuit of Justice by Pamela Tracy
Harlequin Enterprises, Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense - (978 0 373 44236)
Krista Stroever, editor

Rainbow's End by Irene Hannon
Harlequin Enterprises, Steeple Hill Love Inspired - (0-373-87415-4)
Melissa Endlich, editor

Ransomed Dreams by Amy Wallace
Random House Publishing, WaterBrook Multnomah - (9781590527474)
Julee Schwarzburg, editor

Splitting Harriet by Tamara Leigh
Random House Publishing, WaterBrook Multnomah - (1590529286)
Julee Schwarzburg, editor

Taming Rafe by Susan May Warren
Tyndale House Publishers, - (1414310188)
Karen Watson, editor

When the Morning Comes by Cindy Woodsmall
Random House Publishing, WaterBrook Multnomah - (9781400072934)
Shannon Hill, editor

Michelle Sutton's book cover, back cover and spine!

2008-03-04T21:02:00.000-07:00

Seeing my cover with the back and spine makes me want to break out in song! I've blown up just the back cover to a larger size so you can read what it says. Isn't this cool! I'm getting closer every day to holding it in my hands!

Next CWOW meeting

2008-02-24T15:47:00.002-07:00

Will be held at Marie Callendar's in Mesa, Arizona on Saturday April 26, 2008 at 1:00 PM.

Detailed schedule will be available in the near future.

Michelle Sutton has a video trailer for her book coming out in Sept. 2008

2008-02-01T21:04:00.000-07:00

check it out!

Don't miss this writer's conference...

2008-01-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

Arizona¹s Desert Dreams Conference

This is one conference you won¹t want to miss.
* NY Times Bestselling Authors
* Editors
* Agents
* New York Publishers and Small Presses

Visit Arizona in April and enjoy a weekend of networking, learning and fun.

Your conference fee includes:
* 3 full days of workshops featuring such authors as SHERRILYN KENYON, CARLY
PHILLIPS, BRENDA JOYCE, BRENDA NOVAK, VICKI LEWIS THOMPSON, LORI WILDE and
more.
* Editor/Agent Panel and Focus Sessions
* Workshops Friday, Saturday and Sunday
* Editor/Agent Appointments (on a space available basis)
* Friday Networking Mixer
* Friday Dinner and Keynote Address with Sherrilyn Kenyon
* Saturday Luncheon and Keynote Address with Carly Phillips
* Saturday Evening Mixer Sponsored by Brenda Joyce
* Participation in the Saturday Booksigning
* Loads of Goodies and Books

Space is limited! Register today by visiting www.desertroserwa.org.
Registered attendees who enter the conference contest before January 31 get
a guaranteed read by one of the editors/agents attending conference.

Register today!

www.desertroserwa.org or email desertdreams@desertroserwa.

Introducing...

2008-01-11T13:18:00.000-07:00

Meet CWOW Member Sandra Lee Smith

Founding member Sandra Lee Smith has done this before—help start a group dedicated to helping writers at every level. More than 20 years ago, she was a founding member of the desert rose chapter of the RWA so she understands the need for networking among writers. She can even trace the beginning of her career back to helping others. As a teacher of bilingual students, she set out to model for her students the importance of writing and fell in love with putting words on paper. Since she has been multi-published and has mentored many others in this endeavor.

Featured author!!!

2008-01-07T06:06:00.000-07:00

Kim Watters is the featured author over at The Long And Short Of It. Stop by and try for your chance to win an e-book copy of Web of Deceit.

http://www.longandshortreviews.com/

Michelle Sutton gets a book contract!

2007-12-05T06:24:00.001-07:00

I've got a book contract. I've got a temporary cover. So what do you think about my soon-to-be-published YA book? It's guaranteed to be edgy or it wouldn't be written by me, ha! I'll post again when I get the permanent cover done. Meanwhile isn't this one pretty? My friend Bonnie put the title on the picture of the young woman who is my friend's daughter and the inspiration for my character Annie.

(temporary cover)

It's Not About Me
by Michelle Sutton

September 2008

Annie has it all. She's attractive, graduated with honors, was accepted at the college of her choice, has supportive parents, good friends, and a steady boyfriend who loves her. One night when an unexpected visitor appears, Annie's world is destroyed as she once knew it. As she tries to recover the pieces of her broken life, a war ensues between two brothers who both claim to have her best interests at heart. But who will Annie choose? Or will she decide to turn her life in a different direction?

ISBN-10: 0-9797485-1-8
ISBN-13: 978-0-9797485-1-6

$12.99

Pre-order from Sheaf House in August 2008!

Info you need for January 12th's meeting in Mesa.

2007-12-05T06:17:00.000-07:00

Hello All!

A new year is coming. What better time to make new goals, and our January speaker will certainly help with that! So, put January 12th on your calendars. We'll probably also talk about goals. Kimmie, why don't you post about dues because January is when they need to be paid. We can also, then, at the meeting decide what to do with funds - how much we have....

Laurie Schnebly is the author of Believable Characters: Creating with Enneagrams.

She'll be giving a talk about Q Is For Query, A Is For Aaaack! ---- No writer can get far without the most fundamental tool of selling their work: an effective query letter. And yet it's frequently a source of dread for writers who create lyrical fiction, yet panic at the idea of creating a sales pitch. Laurie Schnebly Campbell brings 25 years of advertising experience to the task of identifying what makes people want to buy a product -- any product -- and how to convince them YOURS is the one they want. Here's Laurie's website if you want to check out some of her work.

Laurie Campbell - BookLaurie.com

Our meeting is at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome

1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship -

1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting

2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Laurie Schnebly

Please invite friends! Sandra's already tried to reserve the room, but they're making her wait until January - Thanks ever so much.

Pamela Tracy

Kim Watters interviewed. Here is the link...

2007-11-23T06:58:00.000-07:00

Kim Watters has been interviewed at the Much Cheaper Than Therapy blog.

Check out the interview at www.muchcheaperthantherapy.blogspot.com.
Don't forget to post a comment for your chance to win a copy of her newest release When Johnny Comes Home. Have a great weekend and happy shopping.

Looking for an agent or just curious???

2007-11-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

In the process of looking for an agent? Or just curious? Kim Watters has posted an interview with Lois Winston of the Ashley Grayson Literary Agency on her blog. Stop by and take a look at

www.muchcheaperthantherapy.blogspot.com.

While you're there, don't forget to vote for your favorite romance review site. Have a great weekend.

www.kimwatters.com

Info you need to know about our 1-12-08 meeting

2007-11-07T21:38:00.000-07:00

We will have Laurie Schnebly for our January 12th meeting! She's the author of Believable Characters: Creating with Enneagrams. She sent me a choice of topics. I thought I'd let you all decide. In order, send me the top three workshops that interest you.

~ ~ ~

1. Q Is For Query, A Is For Aaaack! ---- No writer can get far without the most fundamental tool of selling their work: an effective query letter. And yet it's frequently a source of dread for writers who create lyrical fiction, yet panic at the idea of creating a sales pitch. Laurie Schnebly Campbell brings 25 years of advertising experience to the task of identifying what makes people want to buy a product -- any product -- and how to convince them YOURS is the one they want.

~ ~ ~

2. Making Rejection WORK For You ---- Whether it's the first slump or the fiftieth, for a beginner or a New York Times best-seller, rejection is part of every author's life. This workshop offers both practical and psychological techniques for dealing with frustration, boredom and despair. Writers experience firsthand how they CAN control their response to any frustration...which leaves them feeling more in control of not only their writing life, but also their personal life.

~ ~ ~

3. What’s Your Character Type? ---- Laurie Schnebly Campbell shows tools for shaping basic personalities into heroic, appealing characters who will naturally come into conflict with one another -- and with themselves. After learning how to identify each personality type, participants explore the three subtypes that focus on Self-Preservation, Intimacy and Society...ideal for creating conflict BETWEEN genuinely likable people.

~ ~ ~

4. Plotting Via Motivation ---- Any of us could write a book in which characters set out for a three-hour tour and get shipwrecked on an uncharted desert isle. But if you nail down a character's motivation, it doesn't matter whether the ship capsizes or lands safely three hours later. Your characters will create a plot from WHATEVER happens, because you've got their motivation built in from the very beginning... and here's how to do it.

~ ~ ~

5. Block Busting: Putting The Joy Back In Writing ---- At some point, almost all writers suffer from the inability to tell the story they want. Part of writer's block is a lack of joy in the process. So counselor Laurie Schnebly Campbell looks at the causes -- including exhaustion, boredom and fear of success -- and the benefits of this block. Writers take home new awareness of what works for them, and renewed inspiration for returning to the craft they love.

~ ~ ~

6. Challenging Couples In Love ---- While it's easy to create conflict between a hero and heroine whose kingdoms are at war, everyday life can be a tougher setting for plausible conflicts...especially when the hero and heroine are both lovable characters. But the same conflicts that trouble real-life couples -- plus the same solutions recommended by marriage counselors -- can work equally well for fictional couples.

~ ~ ~

7. Ten Minutes To Glory: Your Editor/Agent Pitch ---- A face-to-face pitch with the editor or agent of a writer's dreams can be the best experience imaginable...or the worst. Participants finish this workshop ready to draft their pitch from start to finish, and present it with a more compelling delivery. (Even those who still suffer from stage fright report getting requests for a full manuscript with their class-prepared pitch!)

~ ~ ~

8. Psychology for Creating Characters ---- Tools for determining naturally lovable (and intriguingly flawed) personality types include Adlerian birth order, Jungian thought/feeling scales, the Dewey priorities, and other theories of temperament. Learn from a counselor which ones will offer the best opportunities for conflict between YOUR realistic characters...whose "inborn" personalities will both oppose and attract.

~ ~ ~

9. How To Start A Book & Get It Finished ---- Ask any crowd in a movie theater, "How many people dream of writing a novel?" and you'll get a big show of hands. Why haven't they done it? Getting started is the first hurdle, but continuing all the way to The End is where even more writers run into trouble. This workshop looks at how, when and why to start writing, roadblocks and solutions along the way, and what to do after reaching The End.

Upcoming meeting details confirmed!

2007-10-15T22:40:00.000-06:00

If you're in the greater Phoenix area, don't forget our ACFW group CWOW (Christian Writers of the West) is meeting this Saturday.

You don't want to miss this one. Our own Jennifer Cary has a special announcement! Our speaker will be Cathy McDavid, a multi-published author of many genres. She writes both westerns and paranormals for Dorchester, and she writes hearth and home for Harlequin American. She'll be taking us through a "hands-on" management technique.

Our meeting is October 20th, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Cathy McDavid

October CWOW meeting in Mesa, Arizona.

2007-09-26T12:04:00.001-06:00

Please mark your calendar to attend the meeting October 20th. You don't want to miss this one. Our own Jennifer Cary has a special announcement!

Our speaker will be Cathy McDavid, a multi-published author of many genres. She writes both westerns and paranormals for Dorchester, and she writes hearth and home for Harlequin American. She'll be taking us through a "hands-on" plot management technique.

Our meeting is July 21st, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa, Arizona (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome

1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship

1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting

2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Cathy McDavid

Please invite friends! Sandra's already reserved our room.

Win a copy of Fair Game by Carol Cox...

2007-07-18T23:47:00.001-06:00

All you have to do to win is enter a comment on this post. I'll be combining comments from both of my blogspot blogs for this giveaway (Edgy Inspirational Author is the other blog.)

From the Publisher:

Dinah Mayhew takes on more than just a job at the Chicago World's Fair when she sets her cap for Seth Howell. As Dinah and Seth team up to help Chicago's unfortunates, romance fairly blossoms. But matters take a turn for the worse when Cousin Gladys appears on the scene and starts looking for love in all the wrong places. Upon Glady's sudden and mysterious disappearance, Dinah and Seth begin searching for answers, only to find themselves trapped in a maze of secrecy and deception. Will they live to expose the truth or find themselves facing the point of no return?

Doesn't this book sound great! I read the first book in this series (Ticket to Tomorrow) and it was a real page-turner. I expect this will be much the same.

Announcement for CWOW meeting this Saturday!

2007-07-18T08:23:00.001-06:00

Hello Ladies and Gentleman,

I'm baaaack! Yup, it's me. The pesty little (okay big) president reminding you about Saturday, as in just four days, we'll have our fifth ACFW local meeting. Our meeting is July 21st, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome

1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship

1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting

2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Carol Cox

CAROL COX is a native of Arizona, whose time is devoted to being a pastor's wife, mom to her grown son, and a home-school teacher to her daughter, church pianist, and youth worker. She loves anything that she can do with her family: reading, traveling, historical studies, and outdoor excursions. She is also open to new pursuits on her own, including genealogy research, crafts, and the local historical society. She plans to write more historical inspirational romance, in which her goals are to encourage Christian readers with entertaining and uplifting stories and to pique the interests of non-Christians who might read her novels.

Here's her website: Books by Carol Cox

Please invite friends! Sandra's already reserved our room.

Again, if you glance at the addys and say "Oh no! Pam left off [insert name here]" Then, please forward the email to them and explain that Pam is flawed. Then email Pam and tell Pam she's flawed!

Have a blessed week!

Pamela Tracy

Monday's Craftie Lady

Announcing upcoming July meeting info for CWOW!

2007-06-29T19:50:00.001-06:00

Hello Ladies and Gentleman,

In just four Saturdays (count um) we'll have our fifth ACFW local meeting. Our meeting is July 21st, at 1 p.m., at the Marie Callendar's (They'll do separate checks but add a gratuity) located in Mesa (865 S. Dobson).

1:00 - Welcome
1:00 - 1:45 - Meal and fellowship
1:45 - 2:00 - Business Meeting
2:00 - 3:00 - Speaker: Carol Cox

Have a blessed week!

Pamela Tracy Osback

Jen Carey is a finalist!

2007-05-22T21:14:00.000-06:00

Our very own Jen Carey is a finalist in the Contemporary Romance category in the ACFW Genesis Contest!!!

Whoo hoo! Way to go, Jen!

Member news! Sale by Kim Watters!

2007-05-17T20:15:00.000-06:00

Kim Watters just sold another short story to The Wild Rose Press. "Discovering Jenna" will be a summer/fall release. Her first story "Dog Days of Summer" will be released on May 30th.

The cacti in our yard (outskirts of Sierra Vista, AZ) are in bloom...

2007-05-12T11:01:00.000-06:00

Carol Cox to be speaker at CWOW's July 21st meeting...

2007-05-11T08:01:00.000-06:00

Carol Cox is our speaker for the next meeting! She'll be driving down from Ashfork, Arizona on July 21st. Here's a bit about her:

Here's her website: Books by Carol Cox

Meet Ralph Jones, Jr., the newest member of CWOW!

2007-04-21T16:15:00.000-06:00

About Ralph L. Jones, Jr.

Ralph has been an aspiring writer since the 1st grade. Two of his poems were published in the Vehicle, the literary journal of Eastern Illinois University. He graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental biology. He became a health inspector in 1984. He has had short articles published in the environmental publications of Maricopa County, the Alliance and Internal Affairs. The most recent article published in Internal Affairs was entitled “The Trouble with Prions” and subtitled “The Alternative Theories for Mad Cow Disease.”

Some of the interesting environmental issues Ralph has investigated over the years include an arsenic poisoning caused by wells drilled into a water table with naturally high levels of arsenic. Almost everyone in that rural community believed they were being intentionally poisoned. Then there was the case of the landfill that trucked baled garbage and asbestos waste all the way from the East Coast to Central Illinois. How could they afford the transportation costs that must have been at least a dollar per mile for a two thousand mile round trip? After a little detective work Ralph discovered that they were shipping food back to the East Coast in the same semi-trucks.

About fifteen years ago Ralph started reading C.S. Lewis and he accepted Christianity with his head but not his heart. It wasn’t until he heard Dr. Charles Stanley on Family Life Radio that he truly accepted Jesus Christ as his savior and became born again. He attends the Foothills Baptist Church in Phoenix with his ten-year-old daughter.

He has just finished a futuristic Christian novel entitled Enhanced and he is starting a non-fiction book with the working title Dragons—Spiritual Warfare in Nature. The book will be a speculation on the evidence for demonic possession in living things other than human beings. Abnormal behaviors in animals such as man-eating, livestock killing sprees where entire herds are wiped out by one predator and none are eaten, as well as the strangely intelligent behavior of bacteria like E. coli that seem to communicate and coordinate attacks on patients to defeat antibiotic treatments will be explored in a spiritual context.

So there you have it. Feel free to comment and say hi to CWOW's newest member!

Review of Pursuit of Justice by Pamela Tracy, CWOW chapter President

2007-04-14T22:43:00.000-06:00

From the Publisher:

While helping the police bust a drug ring, Rosa Cagnalia witnessed a murder—one she was now being framed for.

Officer Samuel Packard hauled her in, only to see another cop—his former partner—take her from the precinct without cause. So he followed. Betraying a friend went against Sam's beliefs, but he suspected that something was going on, and that Rosa just might be innocent. The dangerous predicament he discovered her in only cemented his desire to help. Now, if only he could get his beautiful suspect to cooperate….

My review:

More suspenseful than romantic, Pursuit of Justice will keep you on your toes as you experience the stress of being in danger with Rosa and Sam, who are trying to avoid being killed...all the while pursuing justice. This story has more details, plot points, twists, turns, herrings, and action than most suspense novels. It's not overly violent, but at the same time it's by no means a soft story. Plenty of action fills this novel, and up to the very last page the characters are exposing more lies and murders, and are running from danger! Reading Pursuit of Justice made me feel like I had stepped into the middle of a NYPD Blues episode.

Personally, I like more romantic tension in a romantic suspense story, but the suspense piece was interesting enough that it made up for the lack in that area. Plus, the characters were unique, and given the intense pace of the story I think it would've been difficult to develop a believable romantic relationship. I also loved Rosa and Sam's interactions with Rosa's cat, Go Away. The humor was precious, right down to the heaved cat food on the leather seats.

Pursuit of Justice was published by Steeple Hill and released in March 2007.

Meeting today in Mesa for CWOW!

2007-04-14T10:46:00.000-06:00

I wish I could be there myself, but with the price of gas and my recent sinus troubles, I'm just not up to a 200 mile trip today. I wish I could be there with you all. Have a good time without me!

Coming soon!

2007-04-06T09:43:00.000-06:00

The April 15th meeting is quickly arriving. Have your five pages ready to critique. Please send them to the loop in advance, then bring a few extra copies with you (estimate five) to the meeting at Marie Callendar's Restaurant in Mesa! The meeting is from 1-3 PM. See you then!

Our CWOW President Pamela Tracey at the High Desert Crimes SinC bookfair in Sierra Vista.

2007-03-24T20:14:00.000-06:00

I'm sitting next to Pam trying to look special. She's so cute!

Pam speaking on a panel with other authors. She is good! I was enthralled. :)

Here is a picture of Pam's books. Aren't they absolutely gorgeous?

Here's a pic of Pam at her table ready to autograph some books. She's charming!

Here is a picture of Pam autographing one of her books.

High Desert Crimes annual book fair this weekend

2007-03-22T13:04:00.000-06:00

It's that time again! The annual High Desert Crimes book fair (Sisters in Crime Sierra Vista chapter) will be this Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Our very own Pamela Tracey will be a featured author. I do believe she'll be signing her books. I'll try and get at least one good picture of her this weekend to post for you all. :)

Sisters in Crime book fair link

Kudos to Kim Watters!

2007-03-14T23:17:00.000-06:00

This month she sold a short, sweet story to Wild Rose Press, Dog Days of Summer, and the inspirational editor at Wild Rose Press requested a partial of Web of Deceit.

Here's a picture of the sunset over Tucson...

2007-03-03T08:43:00.001-07:00

Here's a cartoon about the insanity of our cyberworld...

2007-03-01T20:34:00.000-07:00

A little bit about Southeastern Arizona - Sierra Vista

2007-02-17T11:53:00.000-07:00

Southeastern Arizona is renowned as a bird watching destination. There are several reasons for this: first of all, the wide variations in elevation between the desert scrub areas and the mountain peaks produces significantly different habitat conditions and the resulting opportunity for diversity of species. Secondly, the area sits at a pivotal geographical point--at the edges of the Sonoran and the Chihuahuan deserts and between the Rocky mountains and the Sierra Madre Occidental of Mexico. So birders in southeast Arizona have an opportunity to see many birds typically spotted only in Mexico.

The life of a writer sometimes looks like this... LOL!

2007-02-11T16:08:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the official blog for the CWOW Chapter of ACFW!

2007-02-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

In January 2007 we added our tenth official member and thus became an official chapter affiliated with American Christian Fiction Writers. CWOW consists of members spanning the entire state of Arizona. Our members live in Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Glendale, Florence, Cottonwood, Scottsdale, Hereford, and other cities around the state. Our chapter exists within the Western Zone of ACFW which includes the states of Nevada, California, and Arizona. Since we're still a new chapter and deciding what we want to do as a unique entity, don't expect anything profound or posted frequently until we get more established. But we're here and we're here to stay...