The wonderful Romantic Novelists’ Association in the UK comprises many different kinds of romance writers in a lively association, with ‘chapters’ around the country. Their parties and conferences are marvellous fun and their quarterly magazine, Romance Matters, provides great information and news.
But it is their New Writers’ Scheme which is second to none. Any unpublished novelist of romantic fiction can join the NWS each January, although get your application in quick as it's so popular! The fee includes an in-depth critique on a full novel from a professional author and is worth every penny. Two of my novels have been through the scheme and the first, Dangerous Deceit, is the one finally published this month. Prospective publishers and agents like the fact that a submitted novel has been through such a critique.
Any author who subsequently signs a contract can then go on to become a full member of the RNA, which I have now done! Today, I am honoured to be featured on the RNA blog , as I owe my continued efforts at writing full length fiction solely to the RNA.
If you want to come and say hello, you can find my interview on the RNA Blog.
Rosemary
9 comments:
Lovely to hear about a success story from this popular scheme. I did join it myself one year and had a helpful, encouraging crit, though as romance does not tend to be my main focus I decided not to do it a second year.
Hi Joanne - thank you very much for leaving a comment. I know what you mean about not writing romance, although they do seem to encompass a very wide range of novels. I guess romance still has to be the main focus in amongst the other elements.
Rosemary, I let my membership lapse as my novels aren't really romantic (although there is romance in them). I guess you'd recommend membership?
Hi Frances - I think these days there are so many different kinds of romance being published that you'd probably be very welcome to join. It's a great networking organisation too, as you can join the online ROMNA group once you're a member.
I just wish I could get to London more easily and I'd be at all the parties! But the conference is at Penrith next summer so I'll be able to get to that one easily. I think it's at Caerleon this year.
I had a lovely, constructive review of my first-ever novel by the RNA a few years ago, and it really boosted my confidence. Places are really hard fought-for these days, I gather!
The new writers scheme sounds great. In the US, our RWA membership isn't limited to published authors, but there are additional perks you receive once you're published.
Congrats on gaining your full membership ;-)
Hi Karen - thanks for your comment. It is a great way of receiving a valuable review, isn't it? And yes, you need to get the application in as soon as January arrives!
Hello Katie - thank you very much for coming over to visit and for leaving a comment. Nice to 'see' you! I've heard of the RWA but don't know much about it - I guess it gives all authors a chance to progress.
I love the RNA - I've never met such a fun, supportive group of people in my life!
Hi Talli - thanks for dropping in. I'm delighted to be a part of it now and just wish I could get to more of the events!
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