Do you write romance? Maybe you know a romance writer. Or perhaps you love reading romances as much as I do. Whatever your reason for visiting Romance Writers on the Journey, I’m glad you’re here. It’s great to have you ladies–and the occasional brave man–stop by. I hope you’ll come back often.
At some blogs, they serve up cyber java or scrumptious sweets for you to savor as you peruse the posts. Me? In real life I’m a lousy cook, and–dare I say it in public?–I don’t like the taste of coffee. Therefore, I compensate by paying a visit to the virtual deli and arranging for a daily delivery of to-drool-for hors d’oeuvres. I have the fountain filled with Martinelli’s. A hunky young waiter stands ready to see to your every need. So, pile your plate, grab a glass of sparkling cider and enjoy your visit.
I started this blog as a way to connect with others who share my love of romance and long to see their names on the covers of published romance novels one day. I don’t claim to be an expert by any means, but I know some awesome romance writers who have a great deal to offer and are willing to share it with you.
Many sites post excellent interviews from multi-published authors. The primary focus at Romance Writers on the Journey, however, is to give you the opportunity to meet recently-discovered debut authors and equally talented but not-yet-published writers. Nothing gives me greater joy than to encourage those who are so close to signing that first contract and those who will soon hold their “firstborn” in their hands.
Lots of whooping and hollering goes on around here as we celebrate with those who’ve realized their dream and have seen or will soon see their names on the cover of a book. We’re encouraged as we read stories of perseverance that paid off.
Just as inspiring, though, are the stories of those writers weathering the hills and valleys on the path to publication who are doing all they can to enjoy the journey. Their devotion to the writing craft and their dedication in the face of disappointments serves as examples for the rest of us.
From time to time, I’ll post articles written with the unpublished or recently contracted writer in mind. Like you, I’m learning about this wonderful profession we’ve chosen. I’ll pass on what I’m gleaning from workshop leaders, books on craft and other sources. In addition, I invite those of you with special skills or training to make guest appearances. Drop me an email with your ideas. If there’s a topic you’d like to learn more about, I’d like to hear that, too.
My name is Keli Gwyn. I write inspirational historical romance. I’ve completed five novels set in the heart of California’s Gold Country in the 1870s. Two of my manuscripts, Addie’s Choice and Love in Bloom, were finalists in the Romance Writers of America® 2008 Golden Heart® contest. To learn more about me and my writing, visit my Web site: www.keligwyn.com.
June 26, 2008 at 7:45 am
Lovely blog, Keli, and what a great help to writers.
Pam
June 26, 2008 at 8:13 am
Thanks, Pam. I have a heart for others, like me, who dreamed of being a writer, turned that dream into reality and are now on the sometimes bumpy and emotionally challenging path to publication.
July 21, 2008 at 7:40 am
Carla,
I enjoyed reading about your journey to publication and thank you for sharing it with us. I wish you the very best of luck with your book, The Heart Beckons, which btw, I think is a great title.
Laura Perricone
July 21, 2008 at 7:44 am
Keli,
I’ll be back to visit your website which I thoroughly enjoyed! Thank you.
Laura P.
July 21, 2008 at 7:54 am
Laura,
Glad you enjoyed your visit. I have some wonderful guests lined up, including Janet Dean, another Love Inspired Historical author whose debut novel, Courting Miss Adelaide, is due out in September.
July 21, 2008 at 9:56 am
Hi Laura!
Thank you so much for visiting and for the good wishes. The Heart Beckons actually belongs to another book of mine, but I ‘borrowed’ it for this one until a different one is chosen. I’m glad you like it. That definitely makes me smile.
I think Keli has an awesome site too.
Enjoy!
November 17, 2008 at 7:02 am
Keli ~
I posted a link to your site because I think this is such a wonderful and inspiring idea. Thanks for dreaming this up and making it happen!
Emily
January 31, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Hi Keli,
Wow, how cool is this. I’m wandering around trying to figure out how to start a blog and I stumble on your great site. I’m one of those lucky ones who’ve grabbed the brass ring. My first paranormal romance, “Once Bitten,” is coming out of Kensington Press this December. I’d love to share my story of instant success (after ten years of writing)!
Clare
May 28, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Keli, you are an inspiration and encouragement to new writers!
The fact that you cheer on other writers rather than see them as a block to your own success is very admirable!
I’ve just released my first novel called “Shameful Innocence.” It’s a historical drama set in Russia during World War I. Those who lived through the beginnings of communism and all the other unimaginable situations have inspired me to bring to light their amazing character.
I’d be honoured to have you share my web page address with others.
http://www.theresachevalier.com
Thank You!
June 15, 2009 at 7:40 pm
Keli, I’m always inspired when I visit this site. I appreciate your efforts to showcase other writers and their work. Pat
June 15, 2009 at 7:43 pm
Pat,
Thanks for the kind words. I feel privileged to interview such talented writers. They are what make the site what it is–along with my great visitors like YOU.
July 25, 2009 at 6:45 am
I’m so glad I found this blog. Editing and learning about writing better is a never ending process.
July 25, 2009 at 9:02 am
Terisa,
Thanks for stopping by. I hope you find the information and interviews here at Romance Writers on the Journey helpful in your writing and editing.
July 26, 2009 at 9:59 am
your blogs are always a good read I enjoy them.
mamat2730(at)charter(dot)net
July 26, 2009 at 1:55 pm
Edna, thanks for the kind words. You brought a smile to my face. : )
August 30, 2009 at 4:41 am
Hi Keli,
Just let you know that I have been wandering around at your site. Interesting stuff and I will return later to read some more
Joel
August 30, 2009 at 7:46 am
Joel, thanks for stopping by. I’ve been privileged to interview some awesome writers and authors. I enjoy learning about their unique writing journeys. I find the varied paths to publication fascinating.
October 22, 2009 at 6:52 am
Hi Keli,
I enjoyed the interview with Autumn Jordan. She looks pretty sassy in that red blouse.
Nick
October 25, 2009 at 2:10 pm
Hi Keli,
Love your blog. I’m also a romance writer, with one anthology story published and one to be published in Mar 2011, both at Midnight Showcase Fiction.
It’s nice to “meet” you
Ruth
November 30, 2009 at 9:01 pm
What an amazing site! I just found it today and I’ll definately be back as I am currently an agented, yet unpublished, historical romance author.
Christi
http://christicorbett.wordpress.com