Working Titlez

Writing can be a lonely endeavor. My colleague and Stephens Press author Steven Kalas (Human Matters) once said, when asked how he finds the motivation to write, “You just have to put your butt in the chair and start writing.” He’s right. Once you push yourself to start, the words usually start to flow.

Because writing is so solitary, authors can let self-doubt creep into their minds, making that “butt in the seat” technique all the harder. What’s an aspiring author to do?

Writers groups.

I have long sung the praises of writers groups and pushed and prodded authors to join them. Groups may be general inviting writers of both fiction and non-fiction of all genres to participate. Others may specialize in romance, sci-fi, mystery etc. Some are organized for seniors or young writers.   Writers groups usually have instructive programs, workshops, conferences, and importantly, offer support, feedback, and networking for writers at all levels of their craft. Many have sub-groups called critique groups. “Crit” groups are a few people, maybe 5 or 6, who meet regularly to review each other’s progress and to “critique” each other’s writing.

One such group is the Southern Nevada chapter of Sisters in Crime. The national Sisters in Crime organization has been around for years. Many famous mystery writers are members and got their initial support and encouragement from a Sisters in Crime chapter.

The public is invited to attend an upcoming meeting that sounds like great fun. Actors Russell Jeff Feher and Scottie Hawkins Scott will play out scenes from famous mysteries.   Oh, and I’m pretty sure brothers are welcome at  Sisters in Crime!