Melanie Milburne - Romance Author

Working on a new project

2011-04-15T15:46:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

My April update is a bit late! Life seems so busy just now trying to fit everything in. We've been doing some work at home, new fences and painting so lots of tradesmen around which I find very distracting.

I am working on a continuity for the Harlequin Medical series. It will be out next year. I really love the story outline I've been given. It's also wonderful to be working with some of my favourite writers and friends.

Hope you all have a super Easter. Ours will be a quiet one just enjoying the beach and lots of reading and hopefully lots of writing.

Warmest wishes,

Melanie

March Madness

2011-03-26T00:26:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

March has flown past and I am in catch up mode. I am having my website redesigned so keep posted for a refreshing change.

My babies are now 13 weeks old and full of mischief. Three have been sold but I have two left and I am so attached to them that I can't choose which to let go. You know what that means!

Best wishes for now,

Melanie

Happy days.

2011-02-28T21:20:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

March is going to be a busy month with lots going on in all areas of my life. I have two puppies left and I am in the toilet training phase. Oh Joy! Having little puppies around is so rewarding in spite of the odd puddle. I just love their happy little faces and the way they bounce with glee when they see me. It melts me every time. I have to discipline myself to work when they are asleep. They are growing so quickly and there are a thousand moments in a day when I just wish I'd had the camera handy. Such cute little looks and antics!

On the work front I am writing a new Presents/Modern so that is all going according to plan. I would like a bit more uninterrupted time but it's probably a bit unrealistic at this point to expect it. I have a workshop I am running for the Tasmanian Writers' Centre later this month which will be fun. It is always wonderful to meet aspiring writers and help them find their feet.

Also, at the end of the month is the Australian Romance Readers Convention in Sydney. That is going to be a blast, I am sure.

Have a happy month and I'll catch up with you in April.

Cheers,

Melanie

My gorgeous babies!

2011-02-06T20:07:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

My babies are now six weeks old and so adorable. They are running about and growling and barking and chewing everything. It is totally exhausting looking after them all. It was a lot easier with just three last time. It's like five full on toddlers!

Still waiting to hear from the producers in Hollywood. It's a nerve-wracking but exciting time. Fingers and toes are crossed!

Have a fabulous month.

Melanie

Hollywood getting closer!

2011-01-12T13:48:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

We have just finished the revisions on our screenplay. It was read by John Truby, Hollywood's top screenplay doctor. It was surreal as I was reading his book The Anatomy of Story over this side of the world while on the other he was reading my work. Paul Margolis has been the best mentor and co-writer possibly. We've had such a lot of fun working on this. I hope it makes it all the way to Hollywood. John Truby thinks it has the best of chances.

Polly is doing well with her babies. They are now three weeks old and so gorgeous. Their personalities are just starting to show. Very cute when they growl and do little puppy barks!

Have a happy week.

Melanie

Polly's new babies

2010-12-27T19:20:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
For those of you who haven't seen my babies on Facebook have a look at them here. They are just so adorable. I am spending so much time just looking at them.
Great news on the screenplay. It is being reviewed by Hollywood screenplay guru John Truby. I am really looking forward to his feedback.
This holiday season is a hard time to write but I am about to start a new book now that I have finished number 41. It's been a very big year but I have a feeling 2011 is going to be bigger!
Happy Holidays to you all.
Melanie

She is pregnant!

2010-11-28T13:01:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Polly is definitely pregnant or otherwise very, very fat! It's so exciting. I think she might have more than three this time. I will be run off my feet once they start becoming mobile. She is due 22nd of December so it will be a busy Christmas this year.
I will post photos as soon as the bubs appear.
I am working on my screenplay and my latest book. It is a hard time of year to concentrate as there are so many conflicting demands on my time. But I am disciplined and have been through this many times. It is so important to keep on track in this business.
We are having a very cool spring. Rainy and then an occasional warm day. Not quite right for this time of year. I have heard our summer is going to be later this year.
Have a happy week!
Mel

Polly

2010-11-10T13:49:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone.

I am very excited because I think Polly might be pregnant. It's still too early to tell but she is very hungry and a little tired now and again. She is due just before Christmas this time so it will be lovely to have puppies underfoot again.

I am working on my screenplay and my novel simultaneously. It is quite easy to switch from one to the other as it's a very different style of writing. I have to check myself in the screenplay though as I want to write more thoughts which you can't do. Nothing can be on the screenplay that you couldn't see on the screen. What a person is thinking is impossible to portray other than in body language and subtext.

I am finding the whole process tremendously helpful. I enjoy movies on a whole new level and have been ever since I did the Robert McKee story seminar. It's wonderful to watch a movie and think about the deeper meaning of the story rather than just be entertained.

I hope you enjoy the first of my Sabbatini Trilogy out now.

Melanie

Exciting new project

2010-10-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I have some exciting news. I am co-writing a Romantic Comedy screenplay with Hollywood screenplay writer Paul Margolis. I attended his workshop in Melbourne in September and had the opportunity to pitch an idea to him. He offered to co-write it with me and we are having a ball doing it. It's the greatest fun and of course, a huge challenge for me but that's what I love best.
I am in between times working on Book number 41. My hero Alessandro Vallini is one of the most intriguing of all of my heroes. I can't wait for you to meet him!
I have just entered the RITA awards for 2011 and plan to go to New York to the conference. What a big year it will be!
Happy reading.
Melanie

Going home

2010-09-17T17:51:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, long time no hear. Sorry about that- so much going on as usual.
I have spent three weeks in Brisbane with my son and daughter in law.
I slipped down to Melbourne for a weekend to do a fantastic workshop with LA screenplay writer Paul Margolis. It was wonderful and so inspiring. He is such a professional and yet a lovely and warm person to be around.
Hey, I just heard Oprah is coming to Queensland. I would love to be a part of that audience!
Have a happy week.
Cheers,
Melanie

RWA Sydney

2010-08-15T16:48:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
Here are some pictures from RWA in Sydney. It was a great time and lovely to catch up with friends and fans and other writers.
I am going back home today after a little wander around the shops. I have a story idea I am working on so I need some thinking time. It will be nice just mooching about for a few hours.
Have a happy week.
Melanie

I am back

2010-08-03T01:33:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I haven't been able to blog for ages due to some technical difficulties-again! It is so frustrating. I blogged and it ended up on someone else's site. Very embarrassing.
Things have been pretty crazy as usual. Lots of writing and reading and living life to the full.
I have finished book number 40 and I am now thinking about my next line up of books.I have a great story idea cooking in my head. It's the fun part of writing, when the characters are developing and growing in my imagination. It's like playing with imaginary friends.
I had a lovely night doing a reading for The Australian Childhood Foundation on Thursday. It was to raise funds and awareness. I loved being able to share my concern for the safety of children with others.
The Australian Conference is next week. I am presenting a workshop on how to rescue your writing from the bin to a bestseller.
Speaking of bestsellers, I am now officially a USA Today bestselling author with The Melendez Forgotten Marriage. Thanks to all my US fans for that!
Happy reading,
Melanie x

Another trip away

2010-07-07T01:02:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I am off again on a trip to Brisbane and then Sydney. We are going to see Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot. I am really looking forward to it.
We have our son and daughter-in-law living close by now and they are often over with their two dogs. It's dog central around here! They get on tremendously well with our two which is great. We have had a few things chewed however which is a pain. Gus is only young and doesn't know the rules. It's like having a toddler in the house. We have to keep everything out of his reach. I have had two books chewed and a pair of glasses. The books are very definitely dog eared now!
Have a good week.
Melanie

A great weekend

2010-06-28T04:15:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I have had the best weekend in Melbourne at a romantic comedy workshop run by Michael Hauge and Steve Kaplan from the US. It was so informative and meshed so well with the Robert McKee one I did last year on story. It was great to be in a learning mode again. I love taking on new information and being challenged to think in new ways.
I'm back home now with heaps to do and the usual juggling. I could get a job in a travelling circus, I am sure!
Life is always a compromise of doing what we need to do, what we feel we ought to do and what we really want to do. If anyone has the answer to how to do it all and well let me know!
Have a happy week,
Mel

Number 40!

2010-06-17T15:06:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I am currently working on book number 40. I can scarcely believe it. I don't know where the time has gone. Writing is such a time consuming activity, and that's not taking into account the business side of things. Oh and then there's life with all its distractions.
For those of you on Facebook come over to my fan page and say hello. My next release The Melendez Forgotten Marriage just got a 5 out of 5 review on cataromance.com. That is always a wonderful feeling. I hope you all enjoy that book. It's my first Spanish hero. Don't know why I took so long to get around to writing one. One of the most gorgeous men on this planet is the Spanish tennis champion Rafael Nadal, right?!
Happy reading,
Mel

Think Pink Day at the Races

2010-05-31T14:54:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
A bit of a gap between posts due to technical difficulties but here I am again at last.
It's been a busy couple of weeks with lots of speaking engagements sandwiched in between writing and family life. I spoke at the annual cocktail party for Women Chiefs in Hobart which was great fun. It was fabulous meeting other successful and inspiring women who are committed to mentoring others.
Sunday was a big day at the races for Think Pink Day on behalf on The Breast Cancer Foundation. I was the guest speaker there as well. I got four couples from the 600 strong crowd to do a Harlequin Mills and Boon kiss off. It was hilarious. That is certainly an event I will remember with great amusement!
Hope you have a great week.
Cheers,
Melanie

I'm back!

2010-04-28T18:05:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
I have missed a few weeks of blogging as I had to switch to a new system. I had to leave it to my very able webmistress to sort it out. I am not really a technophobe
(well not totatlly) but I find the time it takes to fix things is too valuable. I have to outsource a lot of things these days in order to keep ahead of a busy schedule. I find it is a much better way of handling things rather than get stressed and pushed for time. It is hard enough as a working woman, right?
On the writing front I am awaiting some revisions on Book Three of my trilogy. It's been a great exercise and I will definitely do it again some time in the future. For now I am working on a medical so that is fun. I am working at my new office which is brilliant as it is so quiet. I miss the dogs however but I think I will bring them in with me now and again.
Autumn is well and truly here in Hobart, and in fact we had a taste of winter earlier in the week. It was quite a shock after a lovely long hot summer. I love winter though as I get most of my work done in the colder months. It drives me indoors and it is such a nice working environment when it's rainy and cold outside and I am snug and warm inside.
Have a great week!
Melanie

This blog has moved

2010-03-30T23:21:00.001-07:00

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Happy Easter

2010-03-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I am a bit late blogging as I have been in a writing fest. Such a great feeling to reach my goal of halfway before I take a break for Easter.

Life has been pretty busy as usual but I am working on creating more balance for myself. I don't think there is a woman alive who doesn't crave more time for herself. I have now set little goals to get that time. It's a subtle change but it's already working.

If you are heading over to Facebook don't forget to say hi or click on my fan page.

I hope all of you who celebrate Easter have a wonderful time with friends and family or both.
Will talk at length soon!
Mel

New venture

2010-03-16T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I have discovered a passion for yoga. I was recommended it after my back surgery to loosen up my spine. I can't believe how wonderful it is. I do the Ashtanga variety which is quite dynamic and challenging. My muscles really have to work hard to hold the poses. I have felt the benefit already as I can sit for much longer periods without getting a sore back. It's a miracle!

It's been weeks now but I still miss my puppies. I see the photos and just want to be able to pick them up and cuddle them and smell that cute little puppy smell.
One of our cats is injured at the moment. Poor little guy had to wear a collar to stop him picking at the stitches in his rump but somehow he got it off as well as pulling out the wound drains. Clever little boy! He seems a lot better but was quite miserable for the first 48 hours.
Just tidying up Book Two of my trilogy. It's been fun working on it and I can't wait to see these three books on the shelves.
I hope everyone is having a fantastic week.
All the best,
Mel

Lots going on

2010-03-10T13:13:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Another busy week with so much going on. Rolling with the punches is a tactic I have had to learn. I am an organised and disciplined person. I like things done to order and I tick off the boxes in my head as I go. It really throws me out when things come in from the left field, but over the years I have had to learn to be more flexible. Children sort of do that to you! But now it's my elderly parents, my mother in particular. Hospital visits and working out how to manage her care while keeping her wishes paramount is not easy.
Aging is something not all of us will experience, sadly. Accidents, illness and the unexpected can snatch what years you were looking forward to away. But if you do live a long time I think it is important to be as gracious as you can about it. Remind me of this in a few decades, OK?!!
What do you want to do in your last years? Have any of you thought about how it would be facing death? Have any of you stared death in the face?
On a lighter note: I have regular updates from my friend who has Perdy, one of Polly's puppies. She is doing well, taking charge of the other older poodle with whom she shares her new parents. She is cheeky and adorable.
Hope things are cool with you all,
Mel xx

All gone

2010-02-24T18:47:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Well the day has finally come and my last little baby left. I was amazingly emotional. Actually, it's not so amazing really as I am a bit of a sop in any case, but I did find it hard to say goodbye to that little button-eyed black ball of fluff.
But now it is back to work without the distraction of little puppies under my feet, although we have some renovations being done at the moment so from time to time a workman passes via my office window on the scaffolding. Very distracting!
I am about to start a medical this time around. It will be fun to get my teeth into something new after spending months on the Italian trilogy.
Hope you have a great week.
Mel

Last days

2010-02-12T15:31:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
So what do you think? Haven't they grown into cute little kids? Their faces are so much more distinct now they've had their first top and tail at the groomer's. I am going to miss them but after a few sleepless nights just lately I think I might not miss them as much as I thought! They are now eating a lot more which is making them settle better. Polly seems rather determined to wean them. She keeps wriggling away from them when they rush up to her.
They are wreaking havoc on any shoes left lying around as their teeth are needle-sharp. Toes are a big favourite too!
My daughter-in-law is cuddling them in the photos. She particularly loves Teddy who seems very drawn to her too.
I have some exciting news. I recieved two Cataromance awards for 2009 for The Marcolini Blackmail Marriage which was in a book called Mistresses by Blackmail with Kim Laurence and Day Leclaire and also for my Karedes continuity book- The Future King's Love Child. A special thank you to my reviewer who always does a great job of reading my books even though she often gets them late!
All the best for a happy week. Think of me as I say goodbye to two of my babies this week.
Mel

The Nanny!

2010-02-01T15:47:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Well as you can see Pippi has turned out to be the perfect nanny for Polly. When Polly wants a break from the kids Pippi steps in. Thankfully Polly doesn't fight her anymore now she knows the puppies are in good hands, or should I say paws?!! Pippi is so gentle with them. She would have been a wonderful mother herself but we didn't want to breed with her all those years ago. Now I think she is a very frustrated mother!
It is so sweet watching the babies grow and change. They each have distinct personalities and I can tell them apart but no one else can with the same strike rate.
On the writing front all is going well. Thanks for all the lovely emails and Facebook comments about my books. I find it very inspiring and motivating to be given feedback.
Hope your week is fabulous.
Mel xx

So busy

2010-01-26T16:57:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I thought I was a busy person before but with three growing puppies in the house it is getting ridiculous! I am spending so much time cuddling them because I know it won't be long before they are all grown up, just like children.
I am busy too on the writing front. I am working on Book Three of my trilogy and I am just about to do some revisions on Book One so it's all go, go, go. I love the challenge of it all, making it all come together in a tight emotional read that readers will love.
As it is summer here there are enormous temptations for me to go outside instead of sit at my computer. I have to be very disciplined and focussed.
It was Australia Day yesterday and we had a BBQ at home with some friends. It was fun but it did make me think about our traditional people and how they feel about us celebrating the day their land was taken over by the British.
Well, I am determined to get to work even though the sun is shining and the puppies are barking and play fighting.
I hope you all have a great week.
Cheers,
Mel

So sweet!

2010-01-18T15:23:00.000-08:00

I have decided it is almost impossible to photograph jet-black poodle puppies. When their eyes are closed while they are sleeping and even when they open them they are so black you can't make out what is what. I need a bigger zoom lens or something. They are now all over a kilogram in weight and growing fast. They are all walking, or toddling/waddling I should say. This weekend they will have their first solid food-just like babies! It's been such a wonderful experience watching them grow. The only problem we've had is old Pippi, our fox terrier who loves them dearly is not allowed by Polly to go anywhere near them. They have had awful spats and we feel so sorry for Pippi as she just wants a lick or two. The mother instinct is so strong however, and even though Polly and Pippi are usually the best of friends this is a whole new ball game. Just as well the puppies are in a playpen so we can keep them contained. Now all I need is a puppy pram so I can talk them for a walk! Has anyone heard of such a thing?
Have a great week.
Mel

Aren't they adorable?

2010-01-13T13:22:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Now isn't that the cutest little mother you ever did see? Polly is so good with her babies and they are so adorable I can't believe how I will ever sell any of them. I think it is Perdy that we're going to keep now. I thought it was Daisy, but Perdy is a cuddly little thing, a real snuggler when you pick her up. Daisy is a wriggler and wants to get back to feeding hence her size! Although Perdy is catching up, Teddy is still the smallest.

It's hard being home again after over two weeks at our beach house. We had great weather up there and it was a nice place for Polly and Pippi to get their exercise. Walking the streets of suburbia doesn't cut it with Polly at the moment. She just wants to go back to her puppies but up on the coast she was quite keen to have a break and go down to the beach with her ball.
The sunsets up there were lovely because of the warmer weather. We get such an awesome view over the water too which is so peaceful.
I hope you all have a fabulous week. I am posting on different days now as my schedule is a little out of whack because of the triplets!
All the best,
Mel

Look how they have grown!

2010-01-06T22:37:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year to you all!
Can you believe how much my babies have grown? They are twice and more the size they were when they were born less than two weeks ago. Polly is the best little mother, so loving and protective, but like a lot of mums is finding the work/life/play balance incredibly difficult. She is torn between wanting to play on the beach with the ball and stay with her puppies. I know that feeling from years past!
I have changed my comments set up so you now no longer need a Google account to leave a comment. I welcome comments from fans, it's lovely to hear what you think of my blog, books and so on. I would like to avoid any nastiness so if you don't like something please be considerate in how you phrase it as other people might be offended, including me!
Back to the puppies...Daisy is now the biggest, Teddy is the smallest and Perdy is in the middle. So cute!
Have a fabulous week.
Melanie

They're here!

2009-12-26T23:55:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone,
I am officially a granny. Polly gave birth to three gorgeous puppies on Boxing Day: two girls and a boy- Perdy, Teddy and Daisy. They are adorable. It was a beautiful thing to watch, she is a natural mother. We are loving the experience and I am sure things will get rather busy once they open their eyes and start moving around.
I hope you enjoy the photos. I will be taking heaps so keep in touch.
Mel

Not many sleeps now

2009-12-19T17:21:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Well, it's not many sleeps now until Christmas and I can just imagine the panic in those households where there are little children and too much excitement. I remember it all so well and miss it a little. It's going to be a quiet one for us this year for Polly's sake. A pregnant poodle does not need a crowd of guests. She does need some turkey though! She will be thoroughly spoilt, you can be sure of that. She already is.
I am writing book three of my trilogy. I know, I said I was going to have a break but these two characters have been in my head right from book one. In fact they were the first to come alive and I had to put them on hold while I wrote the other two books. It's been an amazing experience.
I hope that wherever you are in the world and whether you celebrate Christmas or not that you have a safe and happy week. I hope that the next time I post I will have some exciting news and photos to show you.
Cheers,
Melanie

Back from Sydney

2009-12-13T13:11:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Just when I thought I couldn't get busier I had a party to attend to in Sydney which gave me a brilliant opportunity to do some much needed Christmas shopping. It also was a fabulous chance to catch up with two great friends and my gorgeous daughter-in-law. My son is just about to land back from France where he was attending a computer game conference.
I had three late nights so it will take me a day or two to get back into gear, I fear!
The dogs missed me so much, and Polly is now starting to look pregnant. She's so cute. She is refusing to use the pet door so I feel like a doorman, standing there opening and closing it for her like she is royalty. What an attitude! It's not just the pregnancy, she has always been like it and grabs any opportunity she can to be waited on like a princess.
I am about to start book three of my trilogy. I have to get Christmas stuff done first so I can get into it and stay in it. I can't wait.
Have a happy week,
Melanie x

Finished another book!

2009-12-06T20:42:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I have just finished book two of my Italian brothers trilogy. I am so excited about this series. It's been one of the best writing experiences of my career. It's been really special getting to know the family and the back story. I have been able to dig deeply into the emotions too so I hope you will all be pleased when they come out next year sometime.
How is the Christmas shoppping going? I started today. Yep, finally. I have yet to put the tree up but that is planned for this evening. There is just not enough time in the day!
It looks like Polly is indeed pregnant but it is hard to know how many puppies as this is her first litter. My guess is only one or two but I could be wrong. First time mums- even human ones- don't often show until the last minute. I will definitely keep you all posted on her progress.
I hope you have a fabulous week.
Love Melanie

My birthday!

2009-11-28T17:47:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone,
It's my birthday today so I am having a fabulous time planning a little get-to-gether for a few friends tonight. I know, I know, why am I doing all the work? At least I'm not making my own birthday cake. I can't believe I used to do that! How sad!
I love birthdays. We make a big thing of them in our family. It's just so nice to celebrate the day you were born. For me it's not about presents, I really don't want or need anything- it's just being with loved ones and feeling loved and cherished.
The best birthday present I have had this last week was a number one bestseller in the US with The Future King's Love-Child. Thank you to all my American readers for buying my book in the Royal House of Karedes Continuity. You rock!
Have a great week.
Mel

Home again

2009-11-21T21:26:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I am home again and wishing I was back in Queensland! It was such a wonderful break. So much sunshine and so much fun.
Fraser Island was the highpoint for me. I achieved a long held dream of swimming across Lake MacKenzie. The water was fresh and warm and the swim one of the most memorable. Not in terms of length, it's hardly the English Channel but it was meaningful to me.
We went back on foot the next day and it was a 21 kilometre round trip so it gave me foot a good work out. It was a real test and I passed with flying colours. Hardly any swelling and pain so that was such a relief. There will be no stopping me now!
The other lovely thing we did was go to Australia Zoo just out of Caloundra. It was started by the amazing and sadly now deceased Steve Irwin. I felt touched by the experience of visiting his wildlife world. I hope you like the photo of the koala who was having a nap. Did you know they sleep for 20 hours a day?
Now it is back to work and of course the lead up to Christmas. I am slowly getting organised. I am still in holiday mode!
Have a happy week,
Mel

Holiday bliss

2009-11-15T14:37:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I am having a relaxing time on Fraser Island after a few days in Noosa on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. I won't tell you how many years ago I honeymooned on Fraser but it was a long time ago! It is still so unchanged, although the resort we are staying at is nothing like the camping we did all those years ago!
It is so nice to be on holiday and have nothing to do all day but sightsee and think about what to have for the next meal. Just as well my foot is functioning better now so I can exercise off all the delicious food I am eating.
I had a lovely afternoon swim in the resort pool yesterday and today I hope to visit Lake Mackenzie but we had trouble getting through the track with our hire car even though it is a four wheel drive. The conditions are the worst the locals have seen for years as they haven't had any rain to settle the sand down. We got bogged a couple of times and had to be helped out. So embarrassing!
Thanks for the lovely emails, especially from Sima in India. My first Indian fan! So nice to have you as one of my readers.
All the best,
Melanie x

Off to Queensland

2009-11-09T13:29:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I am about to leave on a holiday ( some novel research as well) in lovely gorgeous sunny Queensland. I am a little torn about leaving the dogs but they will be happy with my Dad looking after them.
We begin at Noosa for a conference for my husband and then we go to Fraser Island, the biggest sand island in the world. We honeymooned there a long time ago so it will be very nostalgic returning. We won't be camping this time!
I am really looking forward to the break. I have just started book two of my trilogy so it will be great to do a few pages each day if I get the time. I will make the time!!!
Have a fabulous week.
Best wishes,
Melanie

The Race that stops a Nation

2009-10-31T22:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well this Tuesday it is the Melbourne Cup-the race that is reputed to bring Australia to a standstill while it is run. I have witnessed it many times, how people from all walks of life suddenly stop what they are doing and turn on the TV or the radio. Even people who never or rarely gamble will place a bet on the Cup. It is such a great day out. I took my Dad about four years ago. It was a horrible day in terms of weather but even so very memorable. I also won the first four races!
This year I will be watching it at home but it will still be lots of fun.
Other great news is Polly went to Melbourne for her honeymoon! I am hoping in a few weeks time we will see some little black puppies. Won't that be a brilliant Christmas present? Fingers crossed!
She was very good about going over on the plane. And get this-she really made her new husband work for his privelege to be with her. He had to lay on the romance or so the owner told me. How cute! Trust my girl to be a romantic!
Have a happy week!
Melanie

Sunshine on my shoulders

2009-10-25T14:06:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
Today is the most beautiful crisp but clear spring day. I am so over rain! I want sun and warmth now that it is getting close to November. Yes, isn't that scary? Christmas is around the corner. I have made my cake and I will be boiling the pudding today...well that's the plan. It takes five hours so I have to make sure I am around to watch it.
I had some great news about my foot. It is now time to use it more and as a result the swelling that was plaguing me has more or less subsided. The infection is all gone-nothing in the bone thank goodness! It is great to think that in a few more weeks I will be able to run. I am certainly going to have to do something as I feel a little tummy coming from all the enforced inactivity. That has got to go!!!
Hope you have a great week. Thanks for all the best wishes over the past few weeks. I hope I have responded to everyone. If I have missed anyone shot me another line.
Cheers,
Melanie xx

Home again!

2009-10-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Thanks for the best wishes from those who commented or emailed. I am home again and off the IV antibiotics which were a real pain. I have to take long term oral ones but I can live with that. I hated being tied to a bottle around my waist. It would mean no swimming and because of my foot still not quite ready for long walks I would have gone crazy with lack of exercise.
I am off for my first swim in six weeks this morning. I can't wait.
My next release: The Future King's Love-Child which is part of the Royal House of Karedes continuity received a great review which you can check out at the link on my website or on cataromance.com I dedicated this book for my brand new daughter-in-law so I'm really glad it's pleased its readers so far.
I have to get back to work and in a big way. I feel like I've lost so much time being in hospital even though I did work while in there. It's not quite the same as being in my lovely office with all my things around me, including my dogs!
Have a fabulous week and thanks again for the kind wishes. I am sure they helped!
Melanie

Hanging in there...

2009-10-11T12:02:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
Guess what? I am still in hospital. Can you believe it?
I feel like I have lost touch with the outside world. Oh to breathe fresh air, to eat real food and don't even mention the word coffee!
At least I have been able to write. Just finished book one of my upcoming trilogy. So exciting!
It is a big learning experience for me to be out of action physically. I do so much of my thinking in the pool or while walking the dogs. They are missing me and me them. I wish I could sneak them in!
Hope you all have a great week. And I hope that next time you hear from me I am back on my feet!
Cheers,
Melanie

Back in bed!

2009-10-05T23:06:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well you know how everyone says things happen in threes? Well I am back in hospital with an ongoing infection in my foot. I think the universe is trying to teach me something. Patience is not something I have in big supply or at least when it comes to do with myself. I am enormously patient with others but can expect a lot of myself. I think it's called having a type A personality. Anyway, I am learning my lesson and looking after myself. I am even getting lots of writing done now that the medication is working.
I will let you know how I get on.
Happy Reading for now!
Melanie Milburne

A wet weekend but....

2009-09-28T00:07:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
It was another wet weekend but my husband and I went to lunch at a vineyard in the Huon Valley called Home Hill. It is such a picturesque place and even though the showers kept coming it was a beautiful place to have lunch. Cows dotted the green hillsides and there were some alpacas on the other. The sloping rows of vines looked as if they could have been in the south of France. I had a lovely glass of bubbles which made me sleepy! I hope you enjoy the two photos I took.
I went for my first swim today since my foot op. It was wonderful to be back in the water. I need exercise to think and it really cleared my head. I climb walls and become a shrew if I don't use up some of my energy.
I had a lovely time at High Tea with The Hobart Society of Editors who wanted to know about my relationship with my editor and how it all works. It is always a joy to talk about my beautiful editor so it was a pleasure to be there. I met some lovely folks, some I knew, others I didn't so a big wave to you all, especially Sheelagh and Nicola and Juliet. Juliet, you have to write that book!
Hope you all have a super week.
Cheers,
Melanie

Writing in another bed!

2009-09-22T21:50:00.000-07:00

Hi folks,
I have just spent the last four days in hospital with an infection in my foot. It was such a pain but in a way it worked out well as I was waited on yes-hand and foot! I had three lovely meals a day and didn't have to do a thing. I just lay there and wrote heaps and read heaps and looked at the rain pouring down outside.
I am back home now and finally off crutches which is great. The shoe I have to wear for the next month is not so great. I will have hide it with a long skirt or something.
My poor dogs don't understand why I keep coming and going. They went bananas when I got home. Such a lovely welcome.
I am so grateful for all you who have become my Facebook friends and also for those who keep those lovely emails coming.
Happy reading,
Melanie x

Writing in bed!

2009-09-14T15:09:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I should have thought of doing this well before this but it is actually possible to write in bed. I am lying with my foot propped up on a couple of pillows, my laptop on my lap and my two dogs either side of me, one on the floor on her cushion and one at my elbow. Bliss! The only problem is I don't have a servant to bring me a cup of tea and snacks when I need them. Once my husband and son leave for work I am stuck! Have you ever tried to carry something whilst using crutches? I hopped( and slopped) a cup of tea all the way back to bed yesterday afternoon, scalding myself in the process. It was so frustrating. Anyway, apart from the pain which is really annoying and much worse than I thought it would be, I think I am improving. At least I've stopped complaining about my back! I haven't felt a twinge.
It's great to be writing again. And doing it in bed means I can have a rest for a while and then get going again. I can see a few rainy days ahead might well be spent this way.
Thanks again for all the wonderful emails from readers. Big hello to Sharon who sent me a lovely message and also to Mehrena. You are both so sweet!
Have a fabulous week.
Cheers from hopalong Melanie xx

A little hiccup

2009-09-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
You are not giong to believe this but I am back off to Melbourne not to shop or sight see but to have another foot operation. Yes, you heard right. That failed bone graft has created a bit of a problem with my gait so in order not to compromise my back recovery I have to have a plate put in. I jokingly asked for a Royal Doulton, ha ha! Crutches for a week and get this...no serious walking for six weeks! Arghhh! I will go stir crazy. I won't be able to swim for about three or four but the good thing is I will be able to write. Yay! The trouble is this is my favourite time of year and I love walking for hours. But hopefully all will go well this time and in a few weeks that is what I will be doing. It's better to get this all over with while I am in the recovery stage otherwise it will be hanging over my head.
I am into the first book of my trilogy and enjoying getting to know my characters.
We've had some lovely crisp sunny days but rain is forecast. THe birds are so vocal in the morning and evening now which is a great way to start and end the day.
Have a fabulous week and think of me hopping along!
Melanie xx

Another wet week!

2009-08-30T15:06:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well we are having even more rain. It is lashing down as I type this. I can't believe how wet the garden is. This is the wettest winter we have had for many years. The good thing is it is mostly falling all over the state so the farmers can get their share. Mind you, rain can come at the wrong time which can sometimes be worse than not coming at all.
I had the weekend in Melbourne and did a bit of work in amongst some retail therapy. It was a nice break but I must get my head down now as I have the trilogy cooking in my head. I am so excited about starting book one. I can see the characters so clearly.
Thanks again for all the lovely emails and comments. You truly are the most wonderful fan base!
Have a great week,
Melanie

Spring visitor

2009-08-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I had a visit from a new medical author the lovely Sharon Archer. We went for a walk through Hobart's Botanical Gardens and this is a shot of us in the conservatory. There is always a lovely show of flowers no matter what the season. We were a bit early for the tulips as they are just poking their heads up although lots of daffodils were out around the gardens.
Being a writer can be quite a lonely occupation as you spend a lot of time alone but having a visit from a colleague is delightful as you can speak the same language so to speak.
Thank you to all the lovely people who have emailed me this week in regards to the Marcolini books. What a thrill it is to hear from readers who say such wonderful things! You really made my week.
All the best,
Melanie x

Sunshine at last

2009-08-16T15:38:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
We've had so much rain in Tasmania this last week but today the sun is shining. I heard the evening nesting of the blackbirds late one afternoon last week and it was the first hint of spring. I have lots of daffodils out and the garden is coming to life with other blooms such as camelias and the ever fragrant daphne. I always pick a few sprigs to have on my bedside table. It is so lovely to catch a whiff of it now and again.
I had a quick trip to Melbourne on the weekend. I should have been in Brisbane for the national Romance Writers Conference but the flight would have been too long for my back. As it was Melbourne was stretching it. I stood up for most of the flight but we got caught in traffic in the taxi so I was a little uncomfortable. I had a nice time shopping and writing while my husband did his thing at his meeting. It was a nice break and I came back with more luggage than I went with-mostly books!
I hope you have a great week.
All the best,
Melanie

Writing again!

2009-08-09T16:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I am back in the chair and writing which is so cool. I still have to take it slowly, no long sits just yet but it's a lot easier than it was.
Thanks for all the best wishes via email. I guess back pain is a thing we all experience at one time or another so there is a lot of empathy out there. I am certainly much more aware now of what people go through with chronic conditions.
We are having one of the wettest winters on record. It has been raining almost non-stop over the weekend. I love it, especially when I am reading or working but the ground is really soggy now and I wonder how much more it can take. Mind you, a lot of Australia is still suffering from drought so I don't like to complain. And even some parts of Tasmania still need more rain. If only it fell more equitably!
I am posting on iheartpresents early this week so pop by and leave a comment.
Happy 18th birthday to a lovely fan called Louise from Cheshire in the UK.
Have a great week.
Melanie x

You can buy my books right here!

2009-07-31T18:20:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I have great news. You can now buy some of my books right from my website. So for those of you who have missed titles or can't wait for your country's release go right ahead and buy on line.
I am having a good recovery so far from my back surgery. I am sitting for longer and longer and feel really positive about the original problem being fixed. So nice to be without excruciating pain.
It's wet and wild just now and my little dogs are looking at me wondering why we aren't going for our usual walk. The weather people are predicting a warmer than usual spring. Ha Ha, will believe it when I see it. I must say all your poor UK readers are having a very wet summer. I saw some news clips and really feel for you. I remember when we lived in the UK how much we looked forward to summer and then we blinked and it was gone! It's good reading weather though, right?
All the best,
Melanie

Recovering...slowly

2009-07-25T18:31:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I am a terrible patient I have decided. I am too impatient. I want to be able to do things way before my body is ready to do them. It is so frustrating but there you go. It is a lesson I have to learn.
It's hard if you are a go-getting sort of person to be suddenly held back. It can be via physical things or personal issues, even family members can interfere with your plans as many of you young mothers would know! I guess the trick is to always remind yourself that this too will pass. I remember one of our neighbours when we lived in Scotland wisely saying that to me when I was expressing my frustration at my son not sleeping much. She was right. It did pass and now he's impossible to get out of bed!
I am doing a little more each week and this week hope to get some writing done. I miss it so much. I feel like a part of me is missing.
Have a great week.
Cheers,
Melanie

Home again

2009-07-19T18:14:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well I am back home after my back surgery. It all went very well and even though I am a bit sore( big understatement!) I don't have the same pain in my back as before which is a good thing. I am really looking forward to getting back to full mobility which will take about three months. It will be six weeks before I can lift anything! I will turn into a prima donna for sure. Only joking!
I am going to write a little bit each day as I can't sit for long periods. I will use the time to read and think and also to catch up on some business things. I might even tidy my office which has got out of hand over the last few months.
Long walks will be my only form of exercise for a couple of weeks which will be a nice change from swimming. The weather has been so cold lately that the thought of going to the pool is a little offputting.
Thanks to all the people who emailed me to wish me well. A special hello to Brigette and to my writing colleagues Trish Morey and Sharon Archer and Fiona Lowe, Amy Andrews and Carol Marinelli and the rest of the medical authors loop who sent me lovely roses. They really made my day.
All the best,
Melanie

Countdown week

2009-07-04T19:31:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
This is a big week for me as early next week I am having some back surgery. Ouch! Yes, I know it sounds horrible and it is in a way but I am hopeful it will get me back to full working order. I had a nasty fall a couple of years ago and damaged my already operated on disc. Now I must go through the ordeal of a fusion and a disc replacement. It will be a challenge but I have been living with chronic pain for over a year now so anything has to be better than that! It has made me realise how hard life is for those with chronic conditions. Each day is a battle, a challenge to get through. It takes a lot of courage to keep smiling. I have to admit I've had some bad days when I've felt very sorry for myself but I hope I can pull myself out of this with my usual high spirits.
We have a little guest staying with us. His name is Archie and he followed us home after my son and I were taking Pippi and Polly out for a walk. His owners have not returned our calls as yet. We didn't have the heart to send him to the pound. He is so cute. He gets on brilliantly with Pippi but Polly is a bit of a princess and gives him such a scathing-who-is-this-bit-of-riff-raff look. It's so amusing to watch the interactions.I will have to put Archie in a future book. He really has such character.
Wish we luck for Tuesday week!
All the best,
Mel

The mysterious disappearance of some pages

2009-06-27T00:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I am sorry I am blogging a bit later than usual,( or if you like a little earlier!) but the combination of technical difficulties and a health issue made this weeks one of those weeks one would rather dismiss from the memory!
Anyway, here I am now so that is the main thing. Kate Walker is conducting a special party for Harlequin's 60th birthday on her website in July. There are prizes galore and guest bloggers one of whom is me. I hope you can drop by and see what goodies you can claim.
A lovely lady emailed me about recieving a book from Harlequin online which had some pages missing. How frustrating! Please let me know if this happens to you too. There might be a problem with a batch of books. I have checked the copies that I have had sent to me and they are fine.
Happy reading to you all.
Melanie x

A brief trip away

2009-06-14T18:58:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I had a quick trip to Sydney on the weekend which was fun. Lots of shopping, catching up with family and a 30th birthday party. Now it's back to work as next weekend I am away again for a Robert McKee seminar in Melbourne. It will be pretty full on so there won't be any time for shopping. It will be a great opportunity to work at my craft however so I am looking forward to it.
The dogs hate it when I am away. I know now where that phrase came from-hang dog look. That's exactly what they look like when they see me packing a bag! Of course the welcome when I come back is so lovely. It makes me feel so loved. My poor husband doesn't get a look in. They completely ignore him as they dance with glee around me. Ah so nice to be so popular.
I hope everyone has a great week.
All the best,
Melanie

Cold and rainy

2009-06-06T19:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I think the drought is over in Tasmania. We've had heaps of rain and there's more to come. And this week there is the promise of snow! I love it when it's cold and wet, the house is so warm and cosy and I feel like writing so much more than when it's sunny. Of course when it's sunny I want to be outside walking the dogs and so on. Mt Wellington looks fabulous when it is covered in snow. It a like a big cup cake with icing on the top.
After finishing some revisions on a new medical (title to be announced soon)I am going back to my Spanish hero. I can't wait! I don't like to be away too long from my characters, especially these ones.
I hope you have a happy week.
Thanks for the lovely emails. Special hello to Sherrie!
Cheers,
Melanie

Great news!

2009-05-31T01:47:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I was totally blown away on Saturday when I received news of a five out of five review for an upcoming release-The Marcolini Blackmail Marriage on cataromance.com. I am so thrilled and hope you enjoy the book as much as my reviewer did.
I had a short weekend break at the beach house and the dogs loved the long walks along the beach. It was a bit wild last night with rain and wind but so cosy with the fire crackling and curled up in bed. The seems to slow down up there, it's not like in the city where there is always so much going on...yes even in a place as small as Hobart! I always feel myself going down a gear or two. Of course it meant I didn't do any work but I really enjoyed just reading and thinking and reflecting, which is an important part of writing in any case.
Thank you to the lovely Ann from the south coast of Texas in the US who emailed me to say how much she loves my books. I love hearing from readers so don't be shy!
Hope you all have a happy and healthy week,
Melanie xx

Family weekend

2009-05-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
We are having a lovely family weekend as it is my husband's birthday on Monday and my oldest son's on Wednesday. Paul and his wife Dunya came down for the weekend as a surprise so it was lovely to see my husband's face when they walked in the door on Friday night. Actually, the dogs were just as if not more excited!
My first Spanish hero is soooo delicious! I am really enjoying writing this book. It's one of those that I just know will write itself. The reason that happens I have found is because the characters are so real inside my head that I know everything about them. It was funny as I have been reading Robert McKee's book on Story and he mentions exactly that concept. I hadn't realised it was the knowledge of the characters so much as just the story line being a particularly solid one. Perhaps it's a bit of both.
Hope you have a brilliant week.
Melanie

My First Spanish Hero

2009-05-16T22:01:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
I have just started my first Spanish hero story. Why has it taken me this long? My favourite tennis player is Rafael Nadal. Doesn't he make the most brilliant romance hero? My heart is all aflutter!
I am enjoying this book more than any other I have written in a long time and one of the reasons is because of an email I received last week from the daughter of a fan. Hayley (the lovely daughter)told me how her beloved mother Jenni was unwell with kidney failure but how she had found joy and relaxation in reading my books. I immediately organised to send Jenni some signed copies when I suddenly realised she lived in Hobart. I called the press and we had a lovely meeting and an article in the paper so that Jenni could be a star for a day. It was truly such a thrill to meet such a brave lady and also her husband who is very definitely hero material. My best wishes go to Jenni, Rodney and Hayley and the rest of their lovely family as they continue to support Jenni in the road ahead. I am writing this book for them.
Have a great week and happy reading,
Love Melanie

Home again

2009-05-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I hope all the mums out there had a great Mother's Day. I certainly did celebrating in Sydney with my two boys and daughter-in-law and some of their friends. I felt very special indeed. My daughter-in-law has recently learnt to knit. I watched her struggle with casting on the stitches, ( I was no help as I am a hopeless knitter) and then on Mother's Day she presented me with the most gorgeous fuschia pink scarf! I was so touched.
I am about the start mapping out my trilogy. I am really excited about this series. I can't wait to get going with it.
Some good news is I finalled in The Bookseller's Best in Short Contemporary in one of the RWA US chapters for The Surgeon Boss's Bride. That was a nice Mother's Day gift to come home to that email.
Have a great week.
Happy reading,
Melanie xx

Finished!

2009-05-02T20:51:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well I finally finished book number 34. I am having a week off now while I think through my plans to write an exciting trilogy for Presents. I have lots of ideas going through my mind including the heroes'names. They are going to be gorgeous, I can tell.
After our really cold snap we've had some lovely mild weather. I have enjoyed my daily walks with the dogs. Pippi is getting old however and has to take a few breaks now and then. I hate the thought of losing her, she is a huge part of our family. Polly would be devastated too, I think as she adores her.
I hope you have a fabulous week. I am going to be spending Mother's Day in Sydney with my eldest son and new daughter-in-law. I am looking forward to seeing them and the shops!
All the best,
Melanie

Winter weather coming

2009-04-25T22:10:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
A friend of mine has just spent five days walking in the Tasmanian Tarkine Wilderness. It is the most pristine place and I would dearly love to visit. It is under a cloud of controversy at the moment as there are plans to put an access road in which will mean the beautiful and untouched area could be compromised. I am hoping it won't go ahead but it is hard to stop these things sometimes. Progress is not always progressive is it?
On a lighter note I have had a brilliant week of writing. The words have been pouring out of my fingertips and I have loved every minute. Sometimes the craft of writing can be arduous and some of the enjoyment can be leached out when you are under deadline pressure or indeed life pressures. It's been a real treat to have a few days when this has not been the case. Long may it continue!
I hope you have a lovely week. No one has commented lately so please feel free. I hope it's not because you're having trouble getting through. I have been trying without success so far to comment on iheartpresents but the techie is working on it. I love to hear from you so type away!
All the best,
Melanie x

Going well

2009-04-19T15:07:00.000-07:00

Hi folks,
I am always a little hesitant to say how well I am going with a current work in progress for sometimes it jinxes me! But here goes, I am going to risk it. I had a great week and weekend with my characters. I hope to finish this book by the end of the month as I have an absolutely brilliant idea for a new novel. Creativity is a funny thing-the more you write the more ideas you get. Apparently it's all those brain connections firing up.
The weather is gorgeous right now, cool evenings and mornings but bright and calm during the day. We went for a drive on Saturday down the Channel ( following the Derwent River to Peppermint Bay) where we took the dogs for a walk and then had scones and jam and cream and a coffee. It was a lovely break and the dogs thought it was wonderful to have some new smells to explore.
I have worked hard in the pool this week so the overindulgence of chocolate is now sorted out. It's funny how a little exercise makes one feel so much better. I am a bit of an exercise junkie, I have a lot of energy and feel really antsy if I don't get out there and work off some of it. It is also my thinking time so I do a lot of sorting out of scenes in my head while I swim or walk the dogs.
Thanks for to all my US readers who have put me on the Waldenbooks bestseller list last week. What a lovely surprise!
Have a fabulous week,
Melanie x

I feel fat!

2009-04-12T21:23:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I have eaten too much chocolate. Now I feel awful, especially as I have been out of the pool for over a week as my shoulder has been giving me trouble. Arrrgggh! I hate this feeling. I am usually so active and although I've walked for more than a hour a day I still feel blah. I am sure I am not the only one after four days of Easter. Come on, fess up. How many of you over-indulged? It's like Christmas, isn't it? Too tempting for words.
On a positive note I have been catching up on movies. I love curling up and really getting into the whole mood of a film. As a writer I see them very differently from what I used to. Now I am closely examining body language and dialogue, not to mention plot. It's very inspiring. I feel like my batteries have had a bit of a charge.
I hope you have had a great time over Easter. For those of you still away, have a safe trip home.
Cheers,
Melanie x

Happy Easter!

2009-04-05T15:02:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well it's only a few days until we hit the chocolate to celebrate Easter. Australia has a reputation for being one of the worlds' largest consumer of chocolate at Easter. How amazing! When you think there are only 20 million people here that is a lot of chocolate eggs! It is a lovely time of year here, but I also have very fond memories of being in Scotland with the bulbs pushing their heads above the ground, or at least starting to. So wherever you are in the world and whatever Easter mean to you I wish you a happy time.
I am working on a new medical which has been going well. I love the first few chapters as I get to know the characters. They evolve as I go which is exciting as different facets to them become apparent.
I hope your week is a happy and healthy one-in spite of the chocolate!
Cheers,
Melanie

Autum on its way

2009-03-30T21:40:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I was out walking the dogs and saw the first leaves starting to turn. I love this time of year, almost as much as I love spring. I love the crunch of leaves underfoot and the host of colours. If I wasn't a writer I would definitely be an artist. Well...if I could actually paint that is! Big wave to Anu who is having a birthday this week and who is a really gifted artist. Big hugs!
This week I am on iheartpresents so if you want to drop by please do so. If you want to drop by here that's cool too. Thanks for the lovely emails I've had recently from readers. I love hearing from you all.
Hope you have a great week.
Cheers,
Melanie

Autumn here

2009-03-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

Hi folks,
Well on this side of the world autumn ( fall for the US readers) is here. I love the turning of the leaves and the way the evenings are cooler. We have daylight savings change back this weekend so the evenings will be even cooler and darker.
I have been a busy bee working on some revisions as well as an article for iheartpresents. There is never a dull moment, that's for sure. I have also been doing a lot of reading, which is nothing unusual as I am a avid reader, but there's nothing like a new Jodi Picoult book to get me cosied up in bed for a day! If you haven't discovered her read her as she is so good at engaging the reader emotionally. She is also brilliant at making you think about issues from different angles. It is so easy to see the world from our own point of view. If you just step sideways for a moment and look at a situation from another angle you get an entirely different perspective.
I hope you have a great week and that whatever you are reading challenges you to think about life and love.
All the best,
Melanie x

Writing is hard work!

2009-03-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
OK now I am going to let you into a secret-writing is damn hard work. While being a full time writer is a dream job there are so many things to juggle, as indeed there are with any other job. The trouble with writing(or any other creative pursuit) is the job doesn't stop. I am still thinking while I am doing other things, such as domestic stuff or even talking to other people.Yes! What an embarrassing confession but I do. Often people are chatting about their lives and my mind starts to wander and wonder. I suddenly have a novel idea pop into my head. It can be most inconvenient! Anyway, I am working hard on some big revisions. I have changed my mind about the whole set up of my novel so it's a big rewrite. I love it though as I have a very clear sense of where I am going with it. I hope you like it when it finally makes it to the shelves.
Have a great week!
Melanie x

Come rain and thunder

2009-03-15T14:14:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well there is nothing I like better than a wet weekend and boy did we get one in Hobart. It was quite timely too, not just because we need the rain but because I had a nasty throat virus. It gave me a perfect excuse to stay in bed and read for the whole day! I always feel guilty for doing so unless I am really sick so it was worth it to be coughing and spluttering. I am so much better now and feel recharged after reading for hours on end. I think I enjoy being able to do something like that these days as I remember when my kids were small how hard it was to have time to recover when I was unwell. Isn't motherhood hard?! I can't remember a day when I had a full day in bed and yet I am sure I was much sicker then than since.
We had some lovely rain and even a storm over the weekend which was fabulous.Great for the farmers and of course the garden.
I hope your week is a good one.
All the best,
Melanie x

Busy busy busy...

2009-03-08T18:15:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
What is it about some weeks that makes them so busy? This one has only just started but before I know it, it will be Friday and I will be wondering where the time has gone. I am working on setting more realistic goals for myself. I have a tendency to bite off more than I can chew but instead of spitting half of it out I just chew harder and faster! Not a good idea for the long term. I am learning how to be kinder to myself. Hah! We'll see how it goes.
I had a great weekend in Newcastle in N.S.W celebrating a friend's birthday. I have been a part of their family for a long time so it was lovely to see everyone.
The top photo is of two very special young women called Hayley and Gemma Aldrich. They are the daughters of my second brother and his wife Rob and Deb.Rob is the crazy man on the right in the second photo! And Deb is his lovely wife with us in the third. I used Hayley and Gemma's names in two of my books-Wedded and Bedded for Revenge and Willingly Bedded,Forcibly Wedded.
The theme for the night was Hawaii Five-O which was fun. It was at a surf club and the waves were rolling in so it was very authentic.
I hope you all have a fabulous week and do lots of reading!
Happy thoughts,
Melanie x

The trophy!

2009-02-26T17:22:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone,
As promised here is a photo of me with my trophy. It was entitled The Most Popular Category/Series Romance Novel for 2008 for The Marciano Love-Child. A great thrill and I still can't quite believe it. Thanks to all the readers who responded to the online poll and of course for all the people who bought the book which put my sales figures into the top ten. Thank you!
Hugs,
Melanie xx

Two posts in one!

2009-02-22T18:13:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I have been so busy with my son's wedding and a conference the following weekend this is a double post to make up. St Valentine's Day has got to be the most romantic day to get married. It certainly was a special day for Paul and Dunya. Doesn't she look gorgeous? I was so proud of them both. The weather was superb and everything went brilliantly, apart from one of the groomsmen having his flight cancelled at the last minute! Lucky we had a stand in who was able to do the job until he arrived for the reception.

This last weekend I was in Melbourne for the Romance Readers of Australia Convention. It was a wonderful event, made all the more special as it was reader focused. I was so thrilled to meet so many lovely fans. Hi to Jo, Natasha, Xieng, Sonya, Natalie, Aggie, Toni, Hong and so many others who made the weekend so special for me. It was a humbling experience to be awarded the Best Category/ Series Romance Novel of 2008 for The Marciano Love-Child. It is not often I am speechless but I was close to it then. I have a beautiful trophy which I will always treasure. I will post some photos once somneone sends me some. I was so busy being overwhelmed I didn't have a chance to take a picture.
Have a great week and happy reading,
Love Melanie

My heart goes out...

2009-02-08T16:26:00.000-08:00

Hello to you all,
No doubt many of you will have heard of the devastating fires in Victoria. I am shocked at the death toll, not to mention the number of injured and still missing. It is times like these when we should all stop complaining about our little issues and think of those so much worse off. It is a timely reminder of how forceful nature is and most especially when encouraged by the inexplicable behaviour of arsonists. For all my Victorian readers please be assured of my thoughts and I will be donating to the help line.
To everyone else, take a moment to treasure those around you, the ones you love, the things you own that you cannot imagine being without.
Take care of yourselves,
Melanie x

Home again

2009-02-01T13:29:00.000-08:00

Hi romance friends,
I am home again after a very hot week at our beach house. It is not often so hot which made it difficult to work rest or play. The dogs really felt it one day, at one point I put Pippi under the tap as she was too hot to go down to the beach and seemed quite distressed. She loved the cool running water and recovered quickly. We were lucky as a cool southerly came across the bay but it was extremely hot in Victoria and South Australia.
I watched the Australian Open last night which was some of the most amazing tennis I have seen played. Nadal and Federer are the best in the world and they demonstrated that every step of the marathon journey. Nadal deserved his win so all you Spanish fans out there congratulations for having such a brave and noble countryman. He is a fantastic athlete but also a modest and compassionate winner as he understands what defeat tastes like. I admire people who show true sportspersonship as it is seemingly rare these days when powerful egos get in the way.
I have just finished some revisions and wil now get back to my last words of my work in progress. I have to reread the whole thing again as I have had a bit too much time away to remember everything! I am looking forward to it though, it sometimes surprises me what things I haven't noticed in an earlier read.
Hope you have a wonderful week wherever you are.
All the best,
Melanie x

Another working holiday

2009-01-24T16:00:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I am off for another week at the shack to work and rest and play. It will be nice to run again along the beach, I even bought a brand new pair of shoes to celebrate. It is not long now until our son's wedding. It seems like such a short time ago I was getting him ready for his first day at school. How quickly the time flies!
Pippi is much better. She is on a high dose of sedatives to keep the fits at bay which makes her a bit sleepy but the mere mention of a walk or the whiff of a tennis ball and she is back to her old self! There is life in the old dog yet.
I am determined to finish my book this week although I had to do some revisions on a recent submission. I am thrilled with how I have turned it around however and can't wait until you get to read it when it finally hits the shelves. It only has a working title at this point but I will let you know in due course.
I am now on Facebook and still new at it so be patient with me. If you would like to be my friend please drop by.
All the best,
Melanie xx

A new week

2009-01-18T02:31:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Well I have had such a quiet weekend this weekend. I have read and relaxed and been quite lazy for me. I think there are times in our busy lives when we need to stop and recharge the batteries. This weekend was one of them.
It has been a tough time with Pippi not well. She has has a couple of flare ups of fits so that has been quite distressing. She is stable now and I am holding my breath that she will continue to improve. Polly is so sweet towards her, patting her with one of her paws, as if to ask: Is something wrong? So sweet!
I have had a lot of business to see to which has kept me from my current hero and heroine but I don't think they will mind as they are in the middle of a hot scene!
I am as of this moment constructing a facebook space so please be my friends once I give you the go ahead. I have lots of things to share with you on there. It is looking fabulous thanks to be soon-t-be-daughter-in-law who has taken upon herself to get it sorted for me as I am so busy with everything else. Thank God for Generation Y!
All the best,
Melanie xx

Back home

2009-01-11T21:32:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Well I am back home, somewhat reluctantly as the weather is now just gorgeous. I had an extra afternoon and night at the beach house with a friend who needed a bed for the night. It was fabulous to have some girly time. I had to dash back to Hobart this morning to make an appointment plus do all the mom and wife stuff. I feel like I am chasing my tail but I am nearly there!
The dogs had such a wonderful time at the beach. They ran and swam and chased balls and even made a couple of friends, well at least Pippi did. Polly is a bit of a princess and thinks she's too good for commonfolk, especially those of indiscriminate breeding!
I hope you have a lovely week. I have a book due this week plus a book that is nearly finished. I am going to be a busy bee for sure.
All the best,
Melanie x

A rest at the shack

2009-01-04T20:01:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Well we are celebrating ( just Steve and the dogs and I) a lovely few days at the beach house. It is lovely to be able to run with the dogs along the beach-yes I am back running and so too is Pippi, although a little slowly. She is recovering well and although she has to stay on tablets at least she is losing weight which can only help at this stage. Thanks for the lovely comment from Tracey who asked after Pippi. I have a lot of readers who are dog lovers. I am devoted to mine as you can probably tell, but then I am devoted to just about everything-kids in particular!
It has been a lovely start to the New Year for me as I have been able to rest, read and write. I even went for a swim in the ocean this morning without my wetsuit. I was a bit cold but it was worth it. We have had a slow start to summer and the water is nowhere near as warm as it usually is at this time of year.
I hope you all had a fabulous New Year.
All the best,
Melanie x

Sick dog and comments

2008-12-28T18:36:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I hope you all had a great Christmas. Ours was spoilt a bit...well a lot really by our darling Pippi becoming terribly ill. She first developed epilepsy and once we got that more or less under control she developed a patch of pneumonia on her lungs. She is improving now but it was such a worry and to some degree still is as we don't know what caused the onset of fits. It could be a brain tumour or a stroke.
On another note I have just discovered what the comments section is at the foot of my blog. I am such a dunce! So sorry to those who in the past have posted a comment. No wonder there are zero comments now! I promise I will check regularly and respond to any comments any of you post. I know most of you email me through my website contact me page but if you would like to do it via the comments part that is probably easier for you. Never a day goes by that I don't learn something new.
Happy New Year to you all. I hope 2009 is a fabulous year for you. I am going to write some fabulous books as I have some great ideas floating around already. Thanks for all the encouraging emails over the festive season. Big wave to Laura who emailed me the other day.
All the best,
Melanie x

Happy Christmas!

2008-12-20T16:16:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Well it is only a few sleeps till Christmas. I hope you all have a wonderful family time at this festive season no matter what your beliefs. It is such a lovely time to celebrate being a family, and reflecting on the year that has passed. I am not one for making New Year's resolutions as I find that they barely last longer than January. The best thing is to make goals that are both long and short tell, that way you can keep aiming for something even if you slip up occasionally as we all do.
Like a lot of mothers and wives out there I will be run off my feet stuffing a turkey and so on but I love the traditional aspects of the season, even though in Australia it seems rather strange to be having a hot roast meal in the middle of summer! Not that we have had much of a summer so far. The sun is out today however which is lovely so it looks good for the week ahead.
All the best to you all and thank you for all your support and keen readership-I truly appreciate every one of you for taking the time to read my books.
All the best,
Melanie xx

Haven't finished shopping yet!

2008-12-14T18:32:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I am ashamed to say I haven't finished my Christmas shopping yet. It's disgraceful for someone like me who is always so punctual and super-organised. I just want to write just now, trawling around crowded shops doesn't appeal at all. Also, we had quite a scare with our Pippi. She is now nine years old so it's to be expected she will occasionally be feeling her age but the other morning she had a massive fit. It was so frightening. She evidently has epilepsy as a result of a minor stroke. She is far too overweight due to her finishing up the cat food all the time so she is on strict diet. She is on some medication and is much better but I was in tears for days worrying we might lose her. She is so devoted to the kitten I just couldn't bear the thought of not having her around to lick him. We've had to turn off the flashing Christmas lights on the tree as that can be a trigger. It's a small price to pay, right?
Hope you are enjoying the festive season wherever you are.
All the best,
Melanie x

2008-12-07T13:23:00.000-08:00

Christmas too close for comfort!

2008-12-07T13:09:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
If anyone out there has finished their Christmas shopping I am in total admiration of you. I used to be one of those people who had the cards out before anyone else and the presents all wrapped under the tree. That was in BWFT-before writing full time. I am not by nature a procrastinator but other priorities seem to be taking up my time right now. It is a constant juggle to be a good mum, a good daughter, a good wife and a good friend let alone a good writer! But hey, I'm preaching to the choir, right? We all have the same pressures at this time of year, even those who don't officially celebrate Christmas. In Australia it is summer so there are holidays and end of year get-togethers which add to the pressure. I have decided I need to split myself into about four people at this time of year so I can do all the things I need to do without stressing out completely.
The thing or things that keep me sane however are my gorgeous pets. Mattias is growing all the time and is so cute. So full of energy too! I have scratches on my hands from tickling him. Serves me right.
Have a lovely week.
Melanie x

2008-12-02T02:57:00.000-08:00

A huge weekend

2008-12-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Well the secret is out. I had a big birthday to celebrate on Sunday and we had a huge party on Saturday night. It was an amazing evening and I have never felt so loved surrounded by family and friends. My husband and sons had made an amazing PowerPoint of my life and it was so moving everyone was mopping up tears! Life is so short and it is so important to celebrate the milestones if you can.
I hope you like the photos.
To all my US readers Wedded and Bedded for Revenge is out NOW!
Big hugs,
Melanie x

Here he is!

2008-11-20T18:54:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I thought I'd show you our new baby playing with our older dog. Pippi is a nine year old fox terrier who has fallen totally in love with Mattias. I think she thinks he is a puppy!v She licks him constantly. We have to separate them as the poor kitten gets covered in dog slobber. Polly the poodle is not so fond of the baby. She tolerates him but feels quite affronted that she is no longer the centre of attention. Kids!
Hope you are having a great week.
All the best,
Melanie x

Finished!

2008-11-17T13:07:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I finally finished. I was so pleased as I wanted to have a few days off before I started a new novel. I had a fabulous weekend at the beach house. Even though it was cool and windy it was just lovely to walk along the beach with the dogs and think. I have started my new work and feel excited about my characters.
Mattias is settling in beautifully. I promised you photos but we have lost the lead from the camera which downloads the pictures so it will be a day or two until I sort that out. Technology gets to me sometimes!
I had a lovely time last night speaking to a sub group of Rotarians in Hobart called the Innerwheel Group. They are mostly a friendship group and it was nice to be invited to speak to them about my life as a writer. I met some lovely women who were so welcoming and interested in my life. It made me feel excited about getting back to work today knowing how much my writing helps other people to escape into the fantasy world of romance.
Have a happy week and I will be back soon with photos. I promise!
Melanie x

On the way to The End!

2008-11-10T22:38:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I am finally close to finishing this book! I have had so many trips away that you would think with all the waiting around airports and hotels I would have done it by now, but I have needed more time with this one to get it just right. I am looking forward to typing those magicical two words: The End.
I had a lovely weekend in Brisbane. My husband had a trauma course he was directing up there so I had lots of time to mooch around the shops, have a swim in an outdoor pool(I loved that!) and also get some writing and unwriting done. The time to think was great too. It is the one thing a lot of writers don't have much of once they are well established. But then time is precious to everyone these days.
We have a new baby as of last night. A little kitten called Mattias. I will post photos as soon as I get some more. I have been spending too much time playing with him. The dogs love him, especially Polly. And even Mango our other cat is rather chuffed he's got a new playmate. It is all fun and games I can tell you.
Have a fabulous week.
Ciao
Melanie

Post gone missing

2008-11-02T13:00:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I seem to have lost a post so I hope this one loads. I am on a new and smaller but more powerful laptop but I keep making typos as the keys are closer than I am used to. It is so frustrating! I hope it doesn't take me too long to adjust.
It's been a funny week for me. Not as much work done as I would have hoped but then I am always expecting far too much of myself. I set standards that are often a little too high. The thing is I usually reach them which tells you something about goalsetting. If you aim for nothing you hit it every time or so the sayiing goes.
We've had some glorious spring weather and tomorrow it is the Melbourne Cup, the biggest horse race in the Southern Hemphisphere. I love watching it and I would love to back the winner even more so!
I have a trip to Brisbane this week which will be nice. It is one of my favourite cities. I definitely plan to finish my current novel while I am away. I am going to lock myself in the hotel room until it is done!
Oh I cooked my Christmas cake and pudding on the weekend so that was a good feeling. At least I'm on schedule with that. I haven't thought about presents yet but this year we've decided on a one present rule.
Hope you are all well.
Have a great week,
Melanie

A Great Week Away

2008-10-26T14:04:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well I had a fabulous week in Noosa in Queensland. We went up for a friend's wedding and everything was perfect. The weather was great, the bride looked beautiful and the groom madly in love. Perfect research for me! They were married on a beach with the waves pounding on the shore. They even had to change the wedding time because of the tide!
The rest of the week we spent dining out, walking in the National Park and swimming. I found myself winding down as the week went on. I was full of energy until after the wedding on Thursday and then just like a toy with a run down battery I started to find it hard to get going in the morning. I just wanted to lie in bed and listen to the birds singing. I am hungry now to get back to my current book. I have about 15,000 words to go so it will be fun tying things up. My hero is gorgeous and I can't wait for him to claim his bride. Maybe I'll have them get married on the beach!
Hope you all had a nice week too.
Happy reading and writing to those who are keen.
Melanie xx

A fabulous weekend

2008-10-18T18:41:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I have had the most fabulous weekend away. My husband had a surgical conference in the Yarra Valley at a health spa. The Heritage Golf and Country Club is a five star resort set in the picturesque Yarra Valley, the lovely wine district of Victoria. The resort has a huge golf complex and lovely walks, including a wetlands area. The rolling hills and natural vegetation interspersed with European trees is truly spectacular. I have had the most blissful time. It's like my dream day each day! A gorgeous healthy breakfast, then a long walk around the grounds and then a long swim in the 20 metre infinity pool. Back to the room to work for a few hours before I had a hot stone massage. Then the next day instead of the massage I had a facial. The dinners have been wonderful and last night we were taken to the Rochford Estate for a superb meal in the vineyard restuarant. I have got so much work done that I think I will try and come here at least once a year to recharge. What a place!
I feel really in holiday mode as we head to Queensland tomorrow for a dear friend's wedding. It will be a great follow up to this weekend.
Thanks for the lovely emails and messages. It truly makes my job so much more satisfying when I hear from happy readers.
Cyber hugs,
Melanie xx

Working hard

2008-10-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I have been hard at work on book 32. It's been a busy week as I had a talk for a Seniors' Group in Hobart which was fun, plus my elderly father is back from Sydney. He has been madly gardening and keeping himself busy. He really enjoys the cooler weather. Sydney can be quite hot even in Spring.
I went for a lovely bush walk yesterday with the dogs. It was wonderful listening to the bird life and hearing the sound of the rivulet flowing. The last of the snow is melting on the mountain so winter looks like it's over. We usually get showery weather up until late October and just this morning the rain was almost horizontal, driven by the gusty wind. It is bright as anything now however which is typical of this time of year.
I have had some lovely emails from fans this week. Hi to you all and thank you for taking the time to contact me.
Happy reading!
Melanie x

Nunber 31 done!

2008-10-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well this past week saw me finish the revisions on book number 31 so I am feeling rather chuffed. I lost count there for a while but now I have a typed up list so I can remind myself. It feels great to see those titles build up.
We are having our usual Spring weather, a bit of a mixed bag of showers, sun, cold and wind. I made the most of a quiet weekend with a reading fest. It was so restorative after a busy week. Yesterday I didn't even leave the house! That is unusual for me. My husband took the dogs out so I could stay engrossed in my book.
I think it is important as women to take time for ourselves, although we are nearly always last on the list. There are so many things to do that seem to be things only we can do. Not so. I am learning to let go a bit. It's hard as I'm a bit of a control freak but it is important to let others around you experience some of the tasks you have to do in your day otherwise they will never understand how time consuming or mentally taxing they are! It's not just one or two jobs though is it? It's all of them strapped together that take up so much time.
Well, I hope this week you can get some space for yourself to think, recharge or read or relax.
All the best,
Melanie xx

Rascal on the Prowl

2008-09-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

Our big boy, Mango, came in one lunch with a friend to play with. Unfortunately for the little friend, "play with" holds a different meaning for felines and after a torturous ruff n'tumble, poor little birdie found himself with a bare bottom and some rather obvious balding issues.

We attempted an EFR "Emergency Feather Rejoining" operation but after realising that superglue and stickytape wouldn't hold the large sum of tail feathers we moved onto other recovery methods.

After a lukewarm bath and a few hours of rehab, the little bird came to a swift recovery and left for home in time for dinner later that evening.

What a brave little swooper-trooper he was!

Love and best wishes to all!
Melanie xx

Spring in the air

2008-09-21T14:52:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well spring is here as so is the wind. It howled last night, all night. It's such a shame as it wrecks all the blossums. I have the most beautiful pair of tree peonies which only flower for such a short time and when the wind attacks them the petals drop off as they are quite fragile.
We had a fabulous weekened at the beach house. I wrote so much and feel that this novel is one of those that is going to write itself. The characters are so alive!
I have finally decided it is virtually impossible to wear out a minature poodle. Polly is totally obsessed with chasing tennis balls and even though I took her for long walks on the beach, hitting a tennis ball with a racket all the way, she still came home and wanted to play. Oh to be so young and energetic!
Thank you to all the lovely people who emailed me this week. It is so nice to have contact with my readers. Writing is a lonely job, although don't get me wrong, I quite like being left alone to do my thing! But it's so nice to hear from readers who have enjoyed my books.
My poor webmistress lives in Housten and has been without power and water for some time now so my website is not as up to date as it could be. Please be patient as she will get on to it as soon as she can.
All the best for this week,
Melanie x

Back from Sydney

2008-09-15T00:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Wow, the weeks go so fast and the weekends even faster. We had a short trip up to Sydney, this time for my husband's conference. It was great to catch up with our older son and his fiancee and to do a bit of shopping. It was so warmn when we got there. The humidity really was a bit of a slap in the face with a hot wet towel. It rained on Sunday which was good for they really need it. We do too, the winter has been cold but very dry and they are predicting a really hot summmer. That is not a good thing in terms of bush fires. As much as I love a good day at the beach the downside of long hot days is the tinderbox dry forests that can spontaneously combust under the right conditions.
I have started my next wip, a medical this time and I just love it. I haven't done any work on it today as I have been a bit low with a virus but I am going back to it tomorrow. The characters are gorgeous,particularly the hero! I can't wait unti you meet them.
All the best for now,
Melanie x

I am finished...well sort of...

2008-09-07T15:15:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
I finished my wip on the weekend but for some reason I don't really feel it is finished. I guess that is because I have to do a pretty thorough read through and deep edit, which is scary as it might mean some major changes. That is the process of writing however, and a fact a lot of would be writers don't realise. It takes a lot of time and energy ( particularly emotional energy) to get the best book out there.
My next book will be a medical and the characters are already talking to me so I am keen to get this manuscript tidied up so I can get on with the new one. So many books to write, so little time! Speaking of time, how quickly is this year passing?! I will be soon thinking about starting my Christmas cake and pudding. Yikes! It seems such a short time ago that I did it last.
It was Father's Day in Australia yesterday which was a nice chance for me to celebrate both my husband and my father as two very special men who had been wonderful influences in my life.
I hope you all have a fabulous week and thanks for all the emails. I love to hear from readers.
All the best,
Melanie xx

Back on line

2008-09-01T23:20:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I had a bit of a technical hiccup this week. I couldn't get on line so I had to get some help in rejigging my settings. How come the guy they send around looks too young to be out of school?! At least it is all working again now.
I had a fabulous few days last week as Margie Lawson who spoke at the New Zealand and Melbourne conferences came on a short trip to Hobart with her husband. We had a couple of dinners together which was wonderful. If you get a chance to do her on line courses grab at it. I am working my way through them now and finding it so helpful. I am excited about lifting my writing to a new emotional level.
I have the last chapter to write on my current book which is a good feeling. I love it when the hero and heroine get their happy ending. Don't we all deserve one?!
I hope you enjoy the photos.
Best wishes,
Melanie x

Back from Melbourne

2008-08-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
It was a wonderful conference in Melbourne at the Langham Hotel. What an amazing weekend of fabulous workshops and dinners and catch up drinks with friends and colleagues. The fancy dress coctail party was a real hoot and the awards dinner a really special occasion, especially for those who finalled in the various competitions. I managed to slip in some shopping as well as spend time with my lovely editor who was out from London. It truly was one of the best conferences I have attended, but then I say that every year as they seem to get better and better. It is great to see as yet unpublished writers working hard at their craft. It is a long journey for some and I admire their fortitude and dedication. But then that is what it takes to get any where in life-hard work and focus.
I will post some photos so you too can share in some of the fun.
Happy reading and writing,
Melanie xx

New Zealand Rocks!

2008-08-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I am so overwhelmed with the friendliness and welcome I have recieved in Auckland the RWNZ conference. It has been such a thrill to be here and what a talented bunch of writers are here. The Clendon Award has the most amazing strike record for publishing success. 60% of winners have been subsquently picked up by a publisher. That is indeed a fabulous track record. It was wonderful to be at the awards dinner and to celebrate everyone's success in the various contests that were presented.
I will post some photos later as I have a flight to catch and within a couple of days will be flying to Melbourne for the Australian RWA. One of the best things about conferences is being with other writers both published and unpublished as we all speak the same language. It is also so comforting to know I am not the only crazy one out there who has characters talking to me inside my head at all times of the day and night!
I am missing my dogs and apparently they are missing me. Polly has been chewing her blanky and has dragged it to where the leads are kept and slept on it there in antipation of my return. Oh to be so loved!
Hope you have a wonderful week.
Cyber hugs,
Melanie xx