helenwritesit It is only now that I’ve had time to sit down and reflect on what a truly brilliant experience the Romantic Novelists’ Association Conference was in August. As a newbie, I arrived at Royal Holloway London feeling nervous, overwhelmed and a little bit terrified. But those feelings were soon put to bed as I walked into the foyer and spotted lots of faces of authors and friends I had got to know in the past year or so on Facebook and across other social media platforms.
After checking in and taking some time to grab a coffee, briefly say hello to my agent, Saskia Leach, and bump into a few familiar faces and introduce myself, the conference officially began. It was the most exhausting but exhilarating experience. Over the course of three days, I went to over ten talks by different authors who so generously offered their wisdom. I learnt loads, made hundreds of notes and went away finally out of my writing lull – a place I’d been loitering in for a while now.
The weekend was made even more special by the fact I was a contender for the Joan Hessayon Award – an award for a debut novel that has been through the RNA’s wonderful New Writers’ Scheme. I was made to feel incredibly special and at a time where the imposter syndrome was real, I felt like a genuine writer! Although I didn’t win (a slight relief at not having to stand up and make a speech in front of everyone!), I got a trophy and certificate, as well as a goody bag, which I wasn’t expecting at all. It was super thoughtful, and the trophy in particular was incredibly exciting. It now has pride of place on top of a pile of my novels.
Everyone at the RNA who had a part to play in the organisation of the event had done an amazing job. The accommodation was set in the beautiful grounds of Royal Holloway London, the food was great and there are not enough words to describe how awesome the disco on Saturday night was!
I am so disappointed that the next conference isn’t for another two years! If you, or anyone you know, are writing romance or thinking about joining the RNA, don’t hesitate to do it! The wonderful conference aside, the Romantic Novelists’ Association is full of supportive and friendly people who I am now pleased to call ‘real-life’ friends!
