So, I spent Saturday, May 19th at the Fire In Fiction Writer's Workshop conducted by Donald Maass and sponsored by the Missouri Romance Writer's Association.

Since I don't write

romances, I was a little doubtful as to how I would be received. My doubts were quickly laid to rest and I was warmly welcomed.  The people of MOWRA are professionals who believe in working on and learning their craft, and they really know how to put on a workshop!

The location at the Drury Inn in Chesterfield was a great, centrally-located site. The ballroom was spacious, but not so large as to feel lost and have to squint to see Donald Maass. Acoustically, the microphone/sound system functioned well without that horrible screeching feedback that makes a person cringe. MOWRA supplied light snacks and plenty of beverages throughout the day. We were a well-hydrated and caffeinated group!

Main Street Books of St. Charles, MO was the designated bookseller for the event. Their booth contained many of the writing help titles written by Donald Maass.

Of course, it always helps to be accompanied by some writing friends.

MaryAnn Kohensky (Left) writes Paranormal Romance and Young Adult.

Dana Waganer (Above-Left) writes Mysteries set in the Midwest.

Me (Above- Right) I write Commercial/ Mainstream fiction.

Megan Kelly, author of Santa Dear and Stand-In Mom, welcomed everyone to the workshop and announced the man of the hour.

of the

Check out this Interview

Mr. Maass spoke, instructed, and led our group for nearly eight hours straight. An amazing feat! I know he had to be exhausted. We worked our way through the Fire In Fiction book, completing exercises, and getting answers to all our questions. 

Afterwards, he signed books and talked to us individually.

A long workshop day was ended with dinner at Mimi's Cafe in Chesterfield.

I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone interested in honing their writing craft.