Guest Poster Carol Preflatish on Conferences

One of my besties is with us today: Carol Preflatish, a long-time writer buddy. I first read Carol's recipe-and-anecdote book, MASTERS & DISASTERS OF COOKING, which I highly recommend. Since then, she's written and had published two romantic suspense novels, both of which have garnered much praise. The newer one, SAVED BY THE SHERIFF, has such a nifty cover that even I, who do not read romantic suspense, am attracted to it.

But here's Carol, talking about Writing Conferences in general and one in particular.

Writers Conferences, Pro or Con

   I want to thank Marian for asking me here today. I enjoy reading her blog everyday and am honored to be a part of it.

   Occasionally, I'm asked about writers' conferences and whether I think they can help a writer get published. For me, I'm definitely pro when it comes to conferences. I've attended only three conferences, because where I live there aren't many close by. That means if I want to attend one, it involves a long drive or an overnight stay and as a part time writer with a full time job, getting time off from work can be difficult.

   My favorite conference of the three has been the Magna cum Murder Crime Writing Festival held each October in Muncie, Indiana. Magna is not a large conference, which for me, was the appeal of it. The smaller panel sessions afford the attendees the opportunity for more interaction with the panel members, other authors, and readers.

   Yes, I said readers. Many of the people attending are not authors, but readers of mystery and potential buyers of your books. However, there's no segregation, everyone mingles with everyone for a great time. I met some wonderful authors at Magna that I had never heard of before and instantly became a fan.

   Panels are held on a variety of subjects and I found myself struggling to decide which session to attend. One of the things I really enjoyed about Magna were the perpetual author discussions going on in the glass enclosed pavilion. Authors are scheduled to come and go throughout the conference.

   I think attending Magna cum Murder gave a boost to my writing and the encouragement to continue writing mystery and suspense. Finally, I must tip my hat to Kathryn Kennison and her Ball State University staff who successfully put on a spectacular conference each year. I would encourage any writer to attend a conference and especially Magna cum Murder.

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Carol is from southern Indiana and author of two romantic suspense books and one cookbook. Her current release, "Saved by the Sheriff" is available at Secret Cravings Publishing.

You can learn more about Carol on her blog.