Along the way, I've come to know several writers as friends. It gives me great pleasure than to share them with you.
I've known Helen Ginger for years. She has given me immeasurable help with my fiction. Her website is a great resource for writers. I really like her blog, Straight from Hel, too.
Rick Riordan lives in San Antonio, near my town of New Braunfels. My first introduction to him was through his adult books. Then we did a couple of booksignings together. He now writes fabulous books for kids.
I met Jeff Abbott at a Writers' League of Texas event at the University of Texas. We both read from our books that night. After listening to him, I had to buy his books--one of them made my favorite reads list for 2007.
I met Hallie Ephron in New York in April 2006 at the Mystery Writers of America awards event. We were both nominated by Edgar Awards in different categories. We've since participated together on a panel at a conference in Dallas.
Theresa Schwegel sat at the St. Martin's Press table together that same night at the Edgar Awards. Theresa won an Edgar for the Best First Novel that night.
I met Alafair Burke at the Mary Higgins Clark awards. Her dad, James Lee Burke, has been one of my favorite writers for years. Now that I've read one of her books, I am becoming a fan of hers, too.
Another long time friend is Jim Gramon. Back when I was totally clueless, he was kind, patient and a great friend. I even stood him up once--accidentally--and he's still speaking to me.
There are two true crime writers I can call or email when the world looks dark or when my head is blank. They both write good books and give good advice. I did a book signing Kathryn Casey at Murder by the Book in Houston where she welcomed me into her home. One of my newest writer friends is Gregg Olsen. I only know him by email and telephone, but he's a great guy.
Other Links
Other links
I am a contributor to Women in Crime Ink, a well of thoughts on crime and media issues from women criminal justice professionals and authors.
Breast Cancer Resource Center provides emotional support and information to breast cancer patients and survivors.Visit the Breast Cancer Resource Center www.beautyandthebook.comTo my knowledge, Beauty and the Book is the only beauty shop and book store combo in the world. Located in Jefferson, Texas.
A stimulating discussion group in Wimberley, Texas is the Avanti Forum. If you live in that area, you can't go wrong checking them out.
