On a writer’s retreat – Kandy Shepherd

Last weekend I was fortunate enough to attend a wonderful romance writer’s retreat in the beautiful countryside near Berry, on the New South Wales south coast. There were seven of us—sadly no other LoveCats—all members of Romance Writers of Australia, all multi-published authors, all female. (Oh, and a dog!) We shared a particularly lovely house, beautifully furnished and set in acres of lush farmland.

A retreat is even more fun with a dog!

A retreat is meant to be a withdrawal from everyday life, to rest and rejuvenate. Our retreat focused—of course—on writing. The aim was to discuss our current works in progress, brainstorm new plots, discuss ways to fix problems, and share information about the publishing industry. Non-stop talk was interspersed with quiet reflection and frantic bursts of writing—especially from those of us on deadline!

Inspiration all round for rural romance writers!

We managed to fit in time for walking—so important for writers who spend so much time sitting. There were also opportunities to simply admire the beautiful views across rolling hills to the sea. The Shoalhaven area is, I believe, one of the loveliest parts of NSW.

What a place to contemplate new ideas - that's the sea in the distance!

We shared the cooking and the tidying up—and between us ate very well indeed!

Did I feel inspired and refreshed? I most certainly did! In fact I dreamed the entire plot of a story as if I were living it. And, yes, I actually remembered in the morning and wrote it down. Proof that my “muse” had kicked into gear. When I’ll get the chance to actually write that story, heaven knows!

When it rained it was cosy inside - just the spot for brainstorming.

When writers talk writing, we also talk reading. Recommendations for favourite new books were rapidly scribbled down; promises to loan a must-read book made. A few of us mentioned that with our lives so busy, we didn’t have time to persevere with a book that for one reason or another didn’t engage our attention. I used to find it difficult to give up on a book, these days I’m more ruthless. Although of course there’s always that book where perseverance pays off and you’re so glad you pushed through.

What about you? When do you give up on a book? Or do you persevere? Have you ever enjoyed a retreat to follow a special interest? Is there a retreat you’d love to go to? We’d love to read your comments!