by Paula
Gail Benson
When
I first became serious about writing, a friend took me to a meeting of the
Lowcountry Romance Writers (LRWA), a chapter of the Romance Writers of America
(RWA), based in Charleston, South Carolina. At the time, LRWA was the one venue
close to where I lived that consistently provided good information about the
craft and business of writing. Although I didn’t write romance, I joined both
the chapter and the national organization and I benefited a great deal from the
programs and fellowship at LRWA.
 |
| http://lowcountryrwa.com/ |
By
the beginning of last year, I had more options. I didn’t have to make the two
hour drive to Charleston because I was actively involved in the Palmetto Chapter
of Sisters in Crime that provides monthly programs and meets in the city where
I live. In addition, I belonged to the Guppies, the online chapter of Sisters in
Crime, and several other organizations that gave me the opportunity to learn
about writing craft and business. I considered the matter carefully before renewing
my membership with LRWA and RWA. Finally, I decided to give it one more year,
even if I couldn’t make the meetings held in Charleston.
I’m
so very glad that I did. LRWA decided to publish an anthology this year and
allowed any of its members to participate. I had fifteen published short
stories, mostly mysteries, but the first had hinted at a love story. Could I
write another one?
The
requirements were that the story had to be a romance taking place in
Charleston, S.C., during the winter holidays. Any time period. 7,500 words
(although that got extended later).
I
faced two initial challenges: (1) could I write a credible romance, and (2)
could I write a 7,500 word story (most of mine are in the 3,500 word range)?
Through
the great process set up by LRWA, I found I was able to do both. In addition, I
had the opportunity to network with some wonderful writers who became beta
readers, editors, and marketing directors. Romance writers have developed an
incredible ability to reach their audiences. From the experience of working on
this anthology, I’ve learned so much and made many valued friendships.
My
story is a time travel tale about two English graduate students, both unlucky
in their first relationships, finding love with each other when transported
back to a Charleston where the literary figures they have been studying lived.
I was amazed to discover how many famous persons happened to be in Charleston
the day before Thanksgiving 1936. I hope you might read my story to learn about
those connections!
In
addition, the anthology features stories about ghosts, pirates, magic, new
loves meeting, old loves reuniting, families working out how to spend the
holiday together, and people who thought love couldn’t possibly be in their
lives encountering it. Here’s a list of the other authors, among whom I’m very
proud to be included: Amy Quinton,
Angela Mizell, Carla Susan Smith, Casey Porter, Elaine Reed, Gracey Evans, Jen
Davis, Jessie Vaughn, Michele Sims, Rebecca A. Owens, Robin Hillyer Miles, Savannah
J. Frierson, and Zuzana Juhasova.
Are
you looking for a great holiday gift or a virtual trip to Charleston? You can’t
go wrong with Love in the Lowcountry.
Your story is lovely and I'm so happy you stayed with LRWA!
ReplyDeleteRobin, I am, too! Getting to meet and work with you has been a wonderful experience, and I love your West End Club story, based on a historical agreement among unmarried ladies to meet and share a cordial as long as they remain unmarried.
DeleteI'm so glad you decided to renew your membership and submit to the anthology! It wouldn't have been the same without it. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Savannah. Your story about Jada and Aaron is so deep and rich. I love your characters and how they face conflict. And, I'm so grateful for your expert editing on the anthology. It could not have taken place without you!
DeleteBrava, Gail! This is great news and I can hardly wait to read your new story!
ReplyDelete