Wednesday, February 10, 2016

I love book clubs!


One of the most rewarding things I've found about being an author is the chance to interact with book clubs. I've met with several and the dynamic is something hard to find elsewhere.

At many events, like book signings or other speaking engagements, often, the majority of the audience hasn't yet read your book.

But for book clubs, they've selected your book, most all have read it by the time they arrive at the meeting, and they're busting at the seams with questions.

For an author, the enthusiasm book club members bring to their  meetings is like manna from heaven. They love your book. They want to hear more. They're completely engaged. It's an absolute thrill to feel that kind of energy in a room.

So thank you to all of my book club friends. It is always a pleasure!

Monday, February 8, 2016

Phoenix New Times - Project Phoenix 2016


Every year, Phoenix New Times runs a feature called Project Phoenix, highlighting people who have reinvented themselves in some way. I was one of their subjects this year for writing my first novel. You can find the article and the accompanying video here: http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/arts/how-to-publish-your-first-novel-with-anne-wilson-8021844

Saturday, February 6, 2016

Sierra Vista Writing Workshop with author Shona Patel


Shona Patel, moderator, Peg Hassinger, and me
I had the enormous pleasure of conducting a writing workshop with fellow Arizona author Shona Patel at the Sierra Vista Library in Sierra Vista, AZ.

Shona and I are alike in that we've pulled from our own experiences to write our novels. Interestingly, Shona grew up on a tea plantation in India, so writes her stories--historical fiction--using this setting. Her two books are Teatime for the Firefly and Flame Tree Road.



Not only is Shona a talented writer, but she's a kick to be with. We had a lot of fun with this one and I look forward to doing more events with her!