American Night Writer's Association Annual Conference

Last week I had the privilege of attending the American Night Writers Association Annual Conference named Write Here, Write Now.

I’d been looking forward to it for several months; partly because I love what I learn and who I meet, but also because I knew I was that much closer to the end of my pregnancy.

The weekend got off to a great start when my publicist and dear friend, Doug Johnston and his colleague Anne Anderson met me for lunch. Now keep in mind, I’m a sophisticated woman, writing books and trying to save the world and all, but there’s something so very humbling about being 8 ½ months pregnant and trying to be the least bit impressive in a professional setting. It just doesn’t work. There’s nothing suave or cutting edge about a woman carrying an extra 25 pounds who’s trying to look like she’s comfortable and cool. Either way, I loved spending time with them and we had a wonderful lunch discussing books, publicity, writing and Joe’s homemade root beer.

Doug recently lost 60 pounds and wanted to look extra sharp while speaking to a hundred or so writers at the ANWA conference. It’s no secret I love to shop, so I offered to take him to my favorite shopping hole for some new clothes. We hit T.J. Maxx and scored. Doug made a few suggestions that Anne and I entertained.

Eventually a Michael Kors tie, DKNY shirt and Perry Ellis pants won out.

Doug has a gift. He makes things happen. He believes in his abilities and those of his clients. Working with him has greatly blessed my life and I’m a much better writer because of his influence, plus we both think we have ADD and that makes us very cool. J

The conference started Saturday morning and I arrived a bit late (pregnant women have that luxury). Throughout the day, I met so many wonderful people.

April Lynn Pike, author of New York Times best-selling book, Wings, gave a great lecture on the highs and lows of writing.

Being balanced and centered keeps a writer focused. She displayed a pattern of stairs, each representing different emotional stages a writer enters. I totally related and was intrigued by her story to publication. It had a happy ending, but my goodness, the things writers go through to get published. It’s a bit frightening.

Nancy Turner, author of the New York Times best-selling book These Is My Words, spoke on common mistakes writers make and how to keep our writings sacred. She discussed common spelling and grammar errors and gave ideas to overcome writers block.

J. Scott Savage, author of The Farworld Series, was dynamic and educational. The audience couldn’t get enough of his advice and sense of humor. He spoke mainly on writing a query letter and how to approach agents and publishers.

ANWA was started by author Marsha Ward in 1986 to assist and develop the talents of LDS (Mormon) women writers. It’s a niche that I and hundreds of other women fit into.

Seeing author Janette Rallison was a treat for sure.

My mom, Sarah Hinze, author of Coming From the Light and Life Before Life and my sister-in-law Heather also attended.

Meeting Cindy William, author of Chase McKay Didn’t Get Up Today.

I had a great time and met so many new friends. Thanks for all who attended and Doug, I’ll see you next year at Joe’s.