Dear ,

"In October any wonderful unexpected thing might be possible."
- Elizabeth George Speare

We love fall! Crispy leaves, hot tea, cardigan sweaters, and curling up with a good book (or two, or a small stack, or a towering, leaning pile).

It's the time of year for spooky stories, when things may jump out at you in the dark. But remember, not all surprises have to be scary. It's a good time of year to be surprised by new ideas for books, stories, or your career in general.

We will be at the Surrey International Writers' Conference in Surrey, BC, at the end of this month, so if you're there, please be sure to say hello.

Here are some things we've got planned for the month ahead that may jump-start some creative surprises for you.

Workshop Wednesdays

October 7: Dark Night of the Soul with Eileen
There's a point in your story where the character believes that all might be lost and they can't see how they will move forward. How do you get the most out of this scene? What makes a dark night memorable?

October 14: Deep Dive with Jenny
Come and discuss this month's topic in more detail. How can you apply it to your own writing?

October 21: Mind Mapping with Jacqui
Brainstorming is always a good way to gather new ideas, but doing it with the hive mind gives you even more. Here's your chance to mind-map anything from plot and characters to new marketing ideas!

October 28: Blue Pencil with Wendy
Here is your chance to have up to 750 words of your manuscript (or query letter) reviewed with the hive mind. Come and get some feedback.

Special Event: Cocktail Party!

Friday, October 23 at 8 p.m.
Tynehead Room · Surrey International Writers' Conference

Who doesn't love a party? We'll be hosting a cocktail party at the Surrey Conference, and you're invited! This party is open to the public, so even if you aren't able to attend the conference, you're welcome to come and mingle.

Not to brag (but we're gonna), in past years we've had some big guests show up, including literary agents, Diana Gabaldon, and Susanna Kearsley, along with a wide range of fellow TCA people. Come and mingle at the literary event of the year. Or at least we think it's the event of the year.

Members will have the option to sell books at the event. If you're interested, please let Eileen know so she can keep track of numbers.

xo
Eileen and Stephanie