I have to write about the fantastic weekend that the Romantic Novelists’ Association arranged at Queen Mary’s in London last weekend. It was the ideal location with a campus beside a quiet part of the canal, lectures near to the residential halls and a wonderful old library to hold the Saturday evening dinner.

Location wasn’t the best bit though, we had a full programme of workshops from fellow writers who were inspiring and full of great advice and sessions lead by leading agents,publishers and editors. I have reams of notes to read through and snippets of advice that are running through my head when I edit my own work. Thank you Julie Cohen for drilling it into me that ‘ repetition is death’ in a novel! It was a great teaching tool. 👍

Learning wasn’t the best bit though, we had lots of time to talk and meet up with fellow romantics and the encouragement and the laughs were what made it a special conference.

Laughing wasn’t the best bit though, leaving with new friends and new ideas and new enthusiasm was what made this special.

The very best bit is that I know that it will all happen again in Lancaster next year. Some repetition is good!