Killing two eagles with one stone

KILLING two birds with one stone is always magical and often goes hand-in-hand. For example, why mop the floors unless you’ve already locked up the caterpillar and his muddy shoes? Or why destroy a demon unless you also crush his coven and lair (after all, if you don’t, another heart-devouring creature just takes up residence there).

So it was satisfying to return from Sydney yesterday, having achieved two complete missions: I attended the inaugural GenreCon at Rydges Parramatta AND visited the State Library of New South Wales where my kick-butt heroine Shahkara fights off warriors and demons within its sandstone walls, while searching for the illusive Death Lantern (Book I of the Heart Hunter series, due out with Clan Destine Press next year).

Friends and fellow authors Sandy Curtis and Dean J. Anderson joined me on our jaunt to the State Library, where we were delighted to be given a free tour by the enthusiastic and dedicated Rosie. She took us through many of the rooms of the original library, the Mitchell Wing, and shared with us its fascinating history. Highlights included Shakespeare’s Room (check out Cookie Monster and I sitting on a chair made from wood from Shakespeare’s garden) and the delightful statue of Trim, Captain Matthew Flinders’ cat. It was fascinating to see the scenes of my book come to life before my eyes as I trod the library’s marble floors – and then sussed out the entrances and carparks for Shahkara’s appropriate get-away.

The best treat was yet to come – and it wasn’t even my stone! The incorrigible Dean J. Anderson met with Publisher Lindy Cameron that night and accepted a contract with Clan Destine Press for his riveting Dark Urban Fantasy novel (title yet to be revealed). Yay, Dean! This is exciting news for a Bundaberg Writers Club member who has worked very hard and been dedicated to the craft of writing for some years now. I can’t wait to see his book published late 2013/early 2014.

Cheryse Durrant & Deborah Green at GenreCon 2012Finally, GenreCon surpassed our expectations. This professional event delivered the latest industry info while stirring our creative juices. There was also a lot of fun and laughter, like when Daniel O’Malley kissed Kate Eltham during the Great Debate. It was fab to catch up with old and new friends – and we’re all looking forward to another fabulous GenreCon gathering in Brisbane next year.

How did you spend your weekend? Was it writing novels, scrubbing toilets or fighting off demons? Maybe you’d like to share how you wish you’d spent your weekend? I hope it’s a great week for everyone.

11 thoughts on “Killing two eagles with one stone

  • November 6, 2012 at 11:03 am
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    So great to hear that the background for Shahkara is coming alive! I wish I’d had that library tour! Sounds like you had an amazing time. I’m looking forward to GenreCon next year in Brisbane.

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    • November 6, 2012 at 11:53 am
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      You would have LOVED the tour. GenreCon was awesome – but we missed having you there. No #LouiseFairyMagic 🙁

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  • November 6, 2012 at 1:48 pm
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    Oooh what adventures you three have had. And the successes…I can hardly wait for your book to come out. And the same with Dean’s book. Count me in for GenreCon next year.

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    • November 6, 2012 at 7:06 pm
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      Yabba-Dabba Do! That is will be awesome if you join us, Laree. HUGS! & thanks for your gorgeous wishes. They mean a lot to me. xoxo

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  • November 6, 2012 at 7:26 pm
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    Thanks Laree, I’m sure you will see it when its available. Just to make sure you’re not in it….

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  • November 7, 2012 at 2:15 am
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    Sounds as though Genrecon was super awesome 🙂 Glad you had such a great time. Might have to do Brisbane next year X

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    • November 7, 2012 at 6:22 am
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      GenreCon buzzed – it re-invigorated me and was helpful to find out what’s working/what’s not in the publishing industry – and how we can better write our stories and reach our readers. Best of all, the attendees rocked. I can’t wait for you to join the party in 2013, Chele. Yay! Brisbane! PS: Congratulations on the book contract, Dean!

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    • November 7, 2012 at 10:28 pm
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      We missed not having you there to party with – and Lindy had to go solo with her contract discussion this time 🙂

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    • November 13, 2012 at 5:47 am
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      It was fab to meet you, too, Nicky! Lots of valuable and fun information discussed – and I love, love, love that we’re both Joss Whedon fans – and that Damon loves Dr Who. Two of my fav storyworlds pitched together 🙂

      Reply

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