Another Great Between the Pages Writers Conference

Last weekend was amazing. I attended the Between the Pages Writers Conference in Springfield, Missouri. It's a three-day conference held at the Double Tree by Hilton. I love that conference, and it didn't disappoint this year.

Bestselling Author Steven James was our keynote speaker. This was the fourth time I've heard him speak, and he was as interesting and engaging as the first time I heard him. He told stories about his kids, his past experiences, and how he finds his ideas for stories. Then, he shared how he fleshes out his ideas and makes his stories come alive. He explained the importance of suspense and how every book needs it.

Steven is one of the best speakers I've ever had the pleasure of hearing. It's not uncommon to see a few people on their phones during a presentation. As Steven spoke, I didn't see a single person scrolling. All the phones in use were busy taking his picture or recording him. If you ever get the chance to hear Steven speak, I highly recommend you do so. He is a natural storyteller.

Bestselling Authors Gena Showalter and Jill Monroe were also presenters at BTP. I was even more excited to meet Gena than I was to see Steven again. I've been reading her books for many, many years. In fact, I was reading her books when I decided to start writing again. Her writing has inspired and comforted me for around twenty years. Meeting Gena was truly a dream come true.

Jill Monroe was also a great pleasure to meet. I don't want anyone thinking I'm casting shade on her. She was delightful and enlightening. I don't believe I've ever read any of her books, but I'll be remedying that very soon. The creativity she shared with us guarantees I'll enjoy her stories. Jill may even become my next favorite author.

I also attended sessions led by Author Tamara Grantham and my friend Author Susan Keene. Each author offered great insights and encouragement. This was the first time I'd heard Tamara speak, and I will be happy to attend other sessions from her if given the opportunity. I thought she was brilliant and expect to see her on a bestseller list soon.

Of course, Susan is one of my good friends, so all I have to do is ask if I want her advice. She always offers her wisdom freely, and with seventeen published novels, she knows a thing or two. In fact, I asked her about cozy mystery tropes yesterday. She shared her knowledge generously.

While the speakers were fantastic, the best part about attending a writers' conference is the chance to spend time with other authors. Visiting with others who understand what it means to take a thread of an idea and turn it into a complete short story, poem, or book is a beautiful experience. It can even be a relief to bounce ideas off people who know what it's like to get lost in their own heads.

Whether you are an aspiring or accomplished author, I highly recommend attending at least one good writers' conference a year. Nothing recharges the batteries like being with other authors.

Go forth and find your tribe!

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