I’m cheap.
I admit it. Anything marked 50% off? I’m there. Free? Even better.
That’s what first attracted me to Romance University:
http://www.romanceuniversity.org . Free lectures, free learning, free advice.
What more could a thrifty girl like myself ask for?
Right off the bat, I knew these girls had a winner of a blog. Started a year ago in May of 2009, by three talented ladies - Adrienne Giordano, Tracey Devlyn and Kelsey Browning. Their goal was to bring a variety of authors, editors and agents together to offer free advice. And boy, have they met their goal! Authors Allison Brennan, Brenda Novak and Lori Foster have walked RU’s hallowed halls. Agents Scott Eagan and Donald Maas have offered advice, and editors from Harlequin and Kensington have popped in for interviews. And that’s just to name a few! The archives are filled with advice, interviews and wisdom – all free!
I was in hog heaven. (I’m cheap AND from Iowa) Three times a week, I tuned into RU and listened and learned. I myself spoke with Christie Ridgeway, Kristan Higgins, and Carly Phillips.
And they spoke back. In detail.
Hank Phillipi Ryan said how much she enjoyed my little blog. Harlequin Blaze Senior Editor Brenda Chin answered my question about historicals. Agent Jill Marsal offered advice on romantic suspense novels.
Am I name-dropping here?
Just a bit. =) It’s fun, bear with me.
Want to know what’s up and coming?
In the upcoming weeks, RU will bring you interviews with Laurie Schnebly Campbell, Tawny Weber and CJ Lyons. As a matter of fact, on June 4, CJ Lyons will be hosting RU’s first ever Pitch-O-Rama. Post your pitch and CJ will help refine them. Make your pitch perfect – just in time for Nationals.
Want more?
Sure thing.
Follow RU through the summer as they interview Bella Andre on Feng Shui, Anne Charles on how to promo before publication and Larry Brooks from Storyfix.com.
RU is also watching debut author Laurie London as she progresses from pre-pubbed to author. They’ll be spotlighting various sub-genres throughout the year as well, featuring Urban Fantasy, Women’s Fiction and Paranormal. And web designer Jeannie Ruesch is heading up a series on author branding.
And how do I know so much about Romance University?
Because as of April 6, 2010 I became the newest RU staff member. Woot!
Now I’m behind the scenes with my favorite people – Kelsey, Adrienne and Tracey. And I’m thoroughly enjoying myself. And I can just let this slip – a little secret about what’s up and coming.
What’s on RU’s 2011 Wish List?
RU Review Crew – A new series coming out for readers of romance novels. Insider information, free books, reviews and contests all aimed at the romance reader.
Tips for the Non Techie – Join me as I lead you through the wilds of the WordPress jungle. Not techno-savvy? Stick with me kid; I’ll walk you through it!
Agent/Editor Pitches – RU writers will have a chance to post their pitches in front of editors or agents, and get them critiqued!
Want more?
We’ve got you covered. More giveaways, more up and coming authors, more interviews with your favorite authors.
Stop by and visit us at Romance University ( http://www.romanceuniversity.org ). We’ll knock your socks off.
Great post, Carrie! Although I'm a little biased. :)
ReplyDeleteYou've been a great addition to the team and have saved us a ton of time. Plus, your great energy gets me going in the morning. LOL.
I'll have to drop by more often! Sounds like a terrific site:)
ReplyDeleteAdrienne, lol...I'm a great replacement for a cup of coffee!
ReplyDeleteMolly - stop on by, we'd love to have you there - so much to learn!!
Hey, Carrie!
ReplyDeleteWe're so glad to have you. You keep us laughing and organized.
Now we've got to get working on that wish list! Our goal has always been to keep RU fresh and relevant.
Thanks for getting the word out!
Carrie -
ReplyDeleteI think one thing you forgot to mention is that as an RU faculty member, you also work for FREE - LOL. We're so glad to have you (and be paying you such a competitive rate)!
I'd love to hear from folks out here what writing topics they're struggling with so we can add those to our topic wish list.
Hugs,
Kelsey
Great Post, Carrie. I've always been sold on RU. and congratulations on becoming a staff member.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a really greet site. I've got to get better acquainted....Jean
ReplyDeleteHey Carrie!
ReplyDeleteAs usual, you are hilarious!
I'm so happy you're at RU now! RU is like one-stop shopping for writers.
And now, the burning question...are they paying you in chocolate?
Kelsey..working for free, but filling my brain full of more info every day! knowledge is power!
ReplyDeleteTracey...we'll be building on that wish list! 2011 is going to be hot hot hot!
Thanks Dyanne! So much to learn, so much for free...lol...it's an author's paradise!
ReplyDeleteJean..we'd love to see you there! Come visit us anytime!
Jen....=)...thanks for stopping by my friend...
ReplyDeletehmm...paid with chocolate...now there's an idea......=)
Carrie--I'm jealous that RU scooped you up! If you ever need a second (or third or fourth gig), I'm dying for help over at 1st Turning Point. Kelsey will skin me for saying that. Ha! Just kidding...well, not about needing help, but about trying to woo you. RU is awesome, and boy do I know from experience how much those great ladies need your help. It's very cool of you to step up and help out. I'm sure it will do great things for your platform!
ReplyDeleteAnn Charles
Ann..psst...give me a call, we'll talk....lol
ReplyDeleteK gals - I'm way late looking at this again.
ReplyDeleteAnn, my dear...I think Adrienne may have mob ties, and she will not hesitate to use them if you try to skim off Carrie - LOL. That being said, we know she'd made a great addition to anyone's blog. I hope RU will visit 1st Turning Point soon!
Kelsey