Barbara J. Hamby

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Romancing the Web

Because the word “Romance” is in the title of my latest book, I believe, I was invited to join an online writers’ group that consists mostly of romance writers. At first, I thought I would just lurk for a while and then maybe bow out, because romance is not my genre.

However, this group has invited published, best-selling writers to chat online and answer questions for its members. Without asking any questions myself, I’ve learned an incredible amount from just the first two invited guests. I’ve also learned from the comments of the other members. Generally, whenever I think of a question, someone else is already asking it and getting answers.

Also, it’s interesting to me to hear comments from these writers about their personal lives and how they fit writing into tidbits of time between day jobs, for some of them, time with spouses and children, and housekeeping (when they choose to do it.) In addition to stealing time for writing in busy schedules, most must also find time to spend on promotion of their books.

A member of the group has also created a database where member authors can list their email addresses and website URL’s. A separate database lists authors’ books and websites.

This is the second group of online authors I’ve joined. Writing can be a lonely occupation. Online support groups are like “friends at the office” in the old days. The camaraderie and the ability to control the time spent in participating, makes these author groups a welcome diversion.