Good Times in Atlanta

 On Saturday, four of us short story writers presented an all-day workshop for the Atlanta Sisters in Crime chapter at the DeKalb library. Bob Mangeot, Paula Benson, Debra Goldstein, and I covered every topic we could think of, from plotting to submitting.

Here's Debra urging us to rev up the conflict

Giving presentations with others, like this, is much less nerve-wracking than going solo. I had a lot of fun and I think the others did, too. The audience was awesome: attentive, responsive, and appreciative. Many of them told me afterward that they were energized to return home and write short stories. Some even said the talks would help them with their novels.

Paula and I talking about short story structure and plot

Also, I learned new things from the others, and was equally inspired!

Lisa Malice, the president of the chapter, hosted Paula and me in her lovely Marietta home, which made the stay even better! That woman can hostess! And cook.

I thank the chapter for having us and for Debra who, I believe, organized us.