Lots of things to do and more to come
Where did last month go? It just sped past for me, between a bunch of events and wrapping up work on my latest manuscript.
In September I was on a small writer’s retreat with a few other authors at the Highlights Foundation – yes that Highlights, the children’s magazine you probably read in dentist office somewhere. The retreat was in a very woodsy area in rural PA, and it was the most I’ve been surrounded by nature in ages. While it wasn’t remote by any means, my phone went into SOS mode a couple of times. But since I was there to finish work on my manuscript, that didn’t quite matter.
It’s funny even though I was furiously working nonstop for those handful of days I wasn’t as stressed as I had been in the weeks leading up to it. I live in a busy area, across from a hospital and a fire station, with loads of street traffic right under my window. It was nice to have wind, bird chirps, and the rustle of leaves as a soundscape. It didn’t hurt took that the retreat came with meals, so no cooking, cleaning, or planning any meals!
This was my first writer’s retreat, and while I was always intrigued by the whole “go to a cabin in the woods to write”, I never thought it was worth it. After all I can do the same thing at home. Just disable the internet, plan out meals, etc. I found afterwards, that going away was worth it. It was nice to switch up my routine and place myself somewhere entirely different. Actually wish it could be longer, as this was only half a week. So maybe that’s the plan for next time!
Also, if you’re thinking of doing a retreat, for writing or otherwise, this is me suggesting you book that trip if you have the opportunity to do so. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
I recently had a conference packed weekend up in Maryland. On Saturday, I made my first visit to Capclave a small, very friendly and low key conference. I’ve been trying for ages to get there, since it’s not too far from me. However in the past few years something upset my plans, but not this year!
And then on Sunday I was the at the Baltimore Book Festival courtesy of the SFWA and Charm City Books, for a panel, signing, and just having a good time hanging out.
I picked up another starred review for THE IMPROVISERS, this time from Booklist! For the folks counting at home, that makes three stars for the book, and I’m over the moon about it. I wrote this book against some very interesting times and it’s very gratifying to see it so well received so far.
I’m pretty sure the next few weeks fly as well. I got a few fun things book wise planned that I’m looking forward to sharing. So keep an eye out.
THE IMPROVISERS will be out next month, so this is the last call for anyone wanting to snatch up an ARC! As before, if you entered previously you’re good to go.
Nicole Glover 