What could be cozier than a blaze in the fireplace, sparkling Christmas lights, plenty of hot coffee and a supply of candy and cookies? Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? But the real life of the party were Helen, Jane, Peg, and Nancy who joined me around the old cherry wood table yesterday. I think our children and grandchildren might be amazed that we have such a good time while seriously offering suggestions on the writings we share.
Nancy’s book, The Grace Impact, has progressed to the lay-out stage. She is justifiably pleased with that fact and we are all looking forward to her book launch.
Peg is reading the Donna Andrews books and is one of Donna’s most ardent fans. The Andrews books have catchy titles which always include the name of a bird. For example, Peg, who enjoys Christmas cozies, is now reading The Nightingale Before Christmas.
Helen brought three works in progress which some lucky editor of periodicals will snap up. They were Duct Tape, Please; Continue to Love; and The Tow Truck Experience.
When Jane is unable to sleep, she writes–a good example for all of us. She read to the group a poignant soliloquy written at two o’clock in the morning called The Unsolved Puzzle in My Heart. This was a thoughtful comparison of missing puzzle pieces to those unanswered questions of life.
Now, there is absolutely nothing in these proceedings that would evoke excessive mirth, but for some reason, the cozy critique resembled a cozy giggle fest. This group of ladies is tonic for the soul and I can hardly wait until next time.
agreed, agreed
great fun and great help
It’s interesting to see the different writing styles. Yes, it is a lot of fun and who ever said critiques had to be an excruciating experience? Ours aren’t, yet we get the suggestions across in a friendly fashion.
I wish I had a group of friends like yours! You will say when the books are published, won’t you?
Actually, Deb, my three Darcy and Flora cozies were published in November. They are available at pen-l.com, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com. I’d love for you to take a look. Another of the critique group, Nancy Grace, will have a book, The Grace Impact, coming out the first of next year. You can start your own critique group! Just invite some of your friends who are interested in writing or are avid readers, set a date that suits the group, and have a pot of hot coffee! Best of luck to you.
Thanks, Blanche, for hosting our group. It’s encouraging and fun.
Having the group meet here is actually a blessing for me. I love having you all here and hearing what is going on!