I’ve been talking to the editors of the Romance Writers’ Report (the members’ publication for RWA) about my writing an article about being the Writer in Residence at the Toronto Public Library this fall. We’re on for the April issue, so I’ve got work to do. The idea is that the article would discuss my experience as the writer-in-residence, but would also include the perspective of the library, as this was the first residency they’ve ever done focussed on the romance genre.
Plus I’d like to include some quotes from people who participated in the residency events, ideally mentioning how the experience was of value. So, if you attended any of the residency events, read the blog, or had a manuscript partial reviewed by me during the residency, and you have some comments to share, please either post them here, or email them to me privately.
Maybe we can launch more residencies for romance!
Deborah Cooke: Author 
3 responses to “Article About the Residency”
Hi Deborah,
As an aspiring writer the TPL residency was a tremendous opportunity to gain exposure to the romance genre. The blog was always full of great information and it covered such a broad scope that all facets of romance writing were touched on at some point. It brought me into contact with writers, who like you, shared their insight freely. Overall, the TPL residency felt like taking a crash course in romance writing. The final exam of course will be submitting my manuscript. I can only hope it results in a passing grade.
The online chat was very fun. It was great to talk with everyone. I would have liked it to have been longer than it was, because I was enjoying it so much and learning a lot at the same time. But, that sense of fellowship was apparent throughout the TPL residency. As a whole, those involved in writing romance seem to be very welcoming and friendly. There must be an inherent niceness in people who strive for happily ever afters.
Submitting a manuscript and actually getting to talk to you about it one on one was also very helpful. There is truly nothing better for an aspiring writer than getting constructive feedback and ideas from a successful published author. I am making good use of your feedback as I re-write my novel before sending it to Harlequin.
Which brings me to the presentation nights at the TPL: The complimentary food table at each of the presentation nights were a very nice treat, but I think what stood out for me at the last presentation night was getting to hear from an editor at Harlequin. The information gained was invaluable. If I am able to have my manuscript published by Harlequin I know I owe part of that success to the TPL residency and you Deborah. Thank you for all the information that you endlessly supplied. The TPL residency really took my dream of one day getting my manuscript published and put it that much closer to a reality.
Thanks,
Eva Hamilton-Mascioli
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Hi Eva –
How nice to hear from you again! Thank you very much for your kind words and your thoughtful feedback – and yes, I think there is something wonderful about romance writers. Maybe it’s because we’re all optimists.
I wish you the best of luck with your manuscript and hope to see you again – either here through the blog or maybe at a TRW event.
Either way, keep writing!
Deborah
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Thanks Deborah,
You just proved my point! Thanks for the support! It’s always very welcome! And very nice! lol
Take care,
Eva
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