ALL ABOUT QUERY LETTERS
 With Carolyn Howard-Johnson

One thing most writers dread having to write is the query letter. We know it's the first step to publication, but how do we craft a query letter that sizzles?

Come fishing with Angela Mackintosh, Jean Lauzier, and Carolyn Howard-Johnson and learn how to hook and reel in that editor or agent!

Plus: Query 101, the basics on how to write a query letter, and what kinds of hooks you should be including in your pitch.

We also show you a selection of WOW! e-queries that garnered a sale!

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 WRITERS' CONFERENCES
 5 Reasons You Should Go NOW & How To Get the Most for Your Money

Writing conferences are a great place to meet agents, editors and others in the publishing world, not to mention writers just like you. In this article Margo L. Dill shows us how to make that conference pay off, and how to network like a pro.

Plus: a calendar of writing conferences coming to your town!

You wouldn't believe it, but there are conferences happening every day.

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 START ME UP!
 How to Start Your Own Home-Based Freelance Writing Business

Ever wanted to start your own home-based freelance business?

But suppose you don't have anything more than one published clip, limited funds, and three kids under five to boot!

Contributing editor Chynna Laird tackles all these issues and more, and provides writers (and stay-at-home moms) with a solid plan on how to:

• Find your own workspace;
• Obtain the tools of the trade for less money;
• Write around life (and kids!);
• Get organized;
• Stay motivated!

By following Chynna's advice, pretty soon you'll get those acceptance letters pouring in!

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 MEMOIR WRITING
 Drawing From Your Life to Create Your Story

If truth really is stranger than fiction, your life can be the basis for great stories. Contributing editor Annette Fix shows you how to mine from your experiences to create unusual characters, compelling plots, and establish a universal connection with readers that will keep them turning the pages.

Annette shares personal tips she used to create her memoir, "The Break-Up Diet," and provides some fun inspirational examples of great storytelling.

Plus: a list of universal memoir themes to get you started!

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 20 Qs: SUSAN KANDEL
 Mystery Novelist

Susan Kandel, author of the best-selling and critically acclaimed Cece Caruso mystery novels, takes time from her busy schedule to answer our twenty questions.

Learn from a pro! Everything from creating memorable characters to writing a series, you'll be sure to find something to help you along your publishing journey.

Susan also talks about her latest book, Christietown, a must-read!

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 NICHE OR NOT?
 By Mary Cook

How many times have you been told to "find your niche" and write what you know? Maybe that's not the best thing though.

Mary Cook advises to consider expanding your writing opportunities by taking stock in your life.

In this spirited article, learn how possibly kissing some frogs in your time, or living in a certain area can expand your possibilities for getting published!

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 FUNDS 4 WRITERS: ESPECIALLY FOR WOMEN!
 By C. Hope Clark

From contest to grants to markets and publishers, there's something here for every woman writer. C. Hope Clark shares her f-r-e-s-h-l-y squeezed markets and whips up a batch of inspiration to help get our writing juices flowing.

And while some of these publications may accept male writers, they usually seek a woman's twist to entertain their readers, which is great news for us!

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 HOW 2 Further Your Writing With a BLOG
 By Beth Morrissey

Blogs--most of us have one, but are you using it to its maximum potential?

Beth Morrissey, expert blogger, shares the many things writers can do to with a blog to gain exposure, improve their craft, and how to become a part of a wider writing community.

In the article Beth talks to professional women writers who've become successful by blogging. She also shares her tips for monetizing your blog!

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 INSPIRATION: CRAZY S-E-X-Y KRIS CARR
 By Angela Miyuki Mackintosh

Meet Kris Carr, a crazy-s-e-x-y survivor! After reading her book Crazy S-e-x-y Cancer Tips I fell in love with Kris' spirit. Not only is the book a fabulous resource for women with cancer, it's a refreshing and inspirational guide we can all live by.

Kris' positive outlook and amazing strength move mountains.

When Kris found out she had a rare form of cancer, on Valentine's Day no less, she touted, "Cancer needed a makeover, and I was just the gal to do it!" And that she did. She turned the spotlight (and the camera) back on cancer with her TLC documentary, Crazy S-e-x-y Cancer, and her book, Crazy S-e-x-y Cancer Tips, which is one of the most inspirational books I've read in a very long time.

Get ready to be inspired -- this is a must-read interview!

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 MARKETS: CONTESTS & AWARDS
 Be in it to win it!

Whether you're an aspiring or seasoned writer, you might find a new market for your latest masterpiece right here. We give you an eclectic assortment of contests and awards for writers that will boost your writing credentials as well as your writing.

Sample Listing:

BOULEVARD SHORT FICTION CONTEST FOR EMERGING WRITERS

Boulevard Magazine

6614 Clayton Rd.
PMB #325
Richmond Heights MO 63117
Phone: 314.862.2643
Web site: http://www.richardburgin.net/boulevard

Offered annually for unpublished short fiction to a writer who has not yet published a book of fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction with a nationally distributed press.

"We hold first North American rights on anything not previously published."

Open to any writer with no previous publication by a nationally known press.

GUIDELINES: Guidelines for SASE or on website.

PRIZE: $1,500, and publication in 1 of the next year's issues.

DEADLINE: December 15

ENTRY FEE: $15 fee/story; includes 1-year subscription to Boulevard.

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 MUST HAVES: DREAMY REWARDS
 If all our dreams came true...

Everyone wishes for something extra-special from time to time. We asked our staff for their most wished for items and they delivered: everything from Bikini Boot Camp to the Moto Guzzi Norge!

When you reach your goals--what paradise spot or object will be your reward?

We'd love to hear from you! Inspire us to keep reaching our goals! musthaves@wow-womenonwriting.com

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 REVIEW: MUSE ONLINE WRITER'S CONFERENCE
 Reviewed by Jean Lauzier

I love writers' conferences! But what if you can't attend in person or there isn't one close by? Check out the Muse Online Writer's Conference.

WOW! talks with co-founder Lea Schizas about how writers can benefit from an online writing conference, what topics will be covered, and how to attend.

And guess what ladies... it's F*r*e*e!

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 Brenda Hill on Plotting
 The story of how she got started...

When I decided to go for my dream of becoming a novelist, I first took creative writing classes from our community college. I met authors at the bookstore my husband and I owned, and several asked me, a former proofreader for an aerospace corporation, to critique their novels. While I enjoyed it, I still longed to write.

I attended writer's meetings and completed my novel. Out went multiple queries to agents. Most came back with a form rejection letter. I wouldn't give up so I revised and sent again. Again, the rejection letters returned.

Finally, one agent made the notation: "You write well, but your structure is off."

I went on a quest to study structure and plotting, talked to other authors and found plotting was a major stumbling block for many. Most books and instructors talked about plot in a general way, giving this vague esoteric explanation that didn't help at all. I wanted to learn a step-by-step process I could use for different novels.

If anyone knew, they weren't telling.

So I attended more classes and later stumbled on the techique. Now, instead of endless index cards scattered on the carpet or loose pages that get torn or lost, I use a simple one-page plot chart to lay out my story. It's so easy to use that I can tell at a glance if the structure is working.

If you, as the author, do not have an interesting plot or can't tell the story in an absorbing, dramatic way, you might as well be washing cars.

How you tell your story is the difference between a reader eagerly turning the pages or thinking they need to clean the oven.

HOW DO YOU TELL YOUR STORY SO THE READER IS SO ABSORBED THE ROOF CAN FALL IN AND HE/SHE WON'T NOTICE?

Technique. Craft. The knowledge of the modern novel's story structure.

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In Brenda Hill's book, Plot Your Way to Publication, you'll learn:

• How to construct a solid storyline from a basic idea!
• The different turning points every modern story needs to create suspense and keep the reader turning pages! Brenda explains what they are and even shows you where they should be placed. And why.
• What the middle of your story needs to keep it from sagging.

She'll also teach you how to:

• Build character sketches and the information needed to bring them alive on the page.
• Create suspense. Without this crucial element, your story will be as interesting as watching ants go about their busy day.
• Construct a scene. What is needed in each scene and what follows. Do you know what you should NEVER include in a scene? And how many scenes a novel should have?
• Construct a dynamic plot by correct scene placement.
• Build conflict and plot twists.

Brenda also discusses Writer's Block, subplots, and dialogue.

Find out more: http://www.brendahillseaman.com/plottinghelp.htm

Brenda Hill is an expert editor, instructor, and author. She offers first chapter analysis and plotting help.

MORE>> 

 WOW! BLOG: THE MUFFIN
 Find out the latest from the Bakers of WOW!

Have you checked out what we've been baking for you in the daily Muffin? We've stirred together some traditional ingredients with new ones to deliver more interviews, enlightenment, thought-provoking ideas, and inspirational messages to help you through those "gray" writing days.

Would you like to see your thoughts posted on the WOW! Blog? Join Friday Speak Out! Share your thoughts on writing, how you balance your writing within your "other" life, or how you find and maintain inspiration. Of course, you might have another idea spinning in your mind. Go for it. We'd love to read your work and hear your voice.

This is a great free promotion for authors! Please submit your posts of approximately 500 words with a 100 word or less bio to: wowblog@wow-womenonwriting.com

Recent Posts:

Did you know that every Tuesday we feature an interview from a WOW! contest winner? Take a look at who we've been interviewing this past month:

Irene Sullivan: who received TWO awards in the Spring 2007 Flash Fiction Contest! One as a runner up, and one as an honorable mention. (Way to go Irene!) Judge Irene Sullivan presides in the Unified Family Court, handling delinquency and dependency cases, and related family matter involving those children in their cases. Find out more about Irene as we interview her HERE.

Renise Walker: who received a prestigious Runner-Up Award in the Spring 2007 Flash Fiction Contest for her story, "Thanks for Ruining My Dinner." Read about Renise's acheivements, like her website Young Savvy, a lifestyle redesign company devoted to motivating young adults to create the life they dream of living, in spite of resistance and barriers. We see big things in store for Renise! Read the interview HERE.

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Jillian Buckwald: who received a prestigious Runner-Up Award in the Spring 2007 Flash Fiction Contest for her story, "Honker Brooks." Find out what motivated Jillian to write her story, what it was like to win her first writing contest, and what she's up to right now. Read the interview HERE.

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Laura Seltz: who received a prestigious Runner-Up Award in the Spring 2007 Flash Fiction Contest for her story, "Marraige to the Living Dead." In this energetic interview, Laura talks about how teaching plays a role in her creative thinking, her upcoming novel, and shares her uplifting attitude! Read Laura's interview HERE.

Note: We just received the kindest e-mail from Laura, that we had to share with you:

Dear Wow Women,

I just got back from vacation, so I am only now getting to thank you for the wonderful prize package you sent. You didn't only send 'things' -- you sent joy as well. From pink wrapping paper to the sparklers to the hand-lettered card, you demonstrated your abounding care for us women who are struggling to express ourselves.

And I did love the things too. My husband is jealous of the books, the book-mark kit, the mints, and yes, even the pink mug. However, I don't think he's jealous of the eye-lash curler. Not his thing.

So once again, THANKS! I find myself thanking you often because you are so generous so often.

Much Love,

Laura Seltz

In reply:

Laura! You made our day. :-)

It's always wonderful to hear kudos -- we can't tell you how warm & fuzzy it makes us feel. The love that is expressed through the wires is heartfelt. We wish you the best, and know that you have great things in store. We're behind you 100%!

Big cyberhugs & smooches to you!

Love,

Angela & Team WOW!

P.S. We're glad your hubby doesn't go for the eyelash curler. ;-)

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Amy Smith Linton: who received a prestigious Runner-Up Award in the Spring 2007 Flash Fiction Contest for her story, "Something Old, Something New." Find out what inspired Amy to write her story, how her family inspires her writing, and her search for an agent to take on her novel! Read the interview HERE.

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Other Baked Goods:

An interview with Allie Boniface on her latest novel, One Night in Boston. It's always exciting when a WOW! Alumni member publishes her novel, and we were thrilled at Allie's latest success! Find out all about her novel, and the road to publishing success. Allie shares her tips on writing, plotting, editing, and the all-important flash-backs. Plus, she sheds light on the e-publishing industry! Read this enlightening and inspiring interview HERE.

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Blog Days:

Editor Sue Donckels' Blog Day: Mondays

Sue's posts enlighten and inspire writers who are in the midst of their journey. Her anecdotes are lively romps that any women writer can relate to. Recent posts include:

Self-Sabotage Countdown

Going Green

One Writer's Tap Dance

Flexing a Writer's Perspective

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Tuesdays: Interviews with Contestants or Other Interviews (see above)

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Angela Mackintosh's Blog Days: Wednesdays & Sundays

The occasional blogger, Angela dedicates her blog days to interviews, media releases, markets, calls for submissions, questions from contestants and writers.

Most recently, she's dedicated her Sundays to one of her favorite topics: Marketing the Woman Writer's Blog/Website.

In this timely topic, Angela shares her secrets with women writers on how to create a website or blog, how to make it stand out, and how to garner traffic. "Angela's Secret Tips," are unlike anything else online. They are methods she's used personally to get WOW! from ground zero to surpassing some of the most prestigious writing sites in less than a year.

Here's a recent post that will continue each Sunday:

Part 1: An Introduction to Optimizing Your Writing Website/Blog - for Women Writers

Part 2: Link Juice!

Wednesday's recent posts include posts from WOW! contributors and alumni:

Ask the Book Doctor

Interview with Allie Boniface, Author of "One Night in Boston."

Interview with M.L. Cordle, Author of SILENCING SARAH

And sometimes when she's swamped, her double, editor Jean Lauzier, will fill her shoes! As in this post: From the Editor's Desk

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Editor Jean Lauzier's Blog Day: Thursdays & Open Blog Day Fridays

Jean's posts are dedicated to fiction novel writing, and include interviews with published novelists to help fellow writers explore their craft and journey into publishing. Recent posts include:

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Children With Special Needs

Turn Up the Heat...

The Right Start

The Truth: I'm Ten, I'm Smart and I Know Everything

A Call for Submissions

Robin Jay... Author and Speaker

On the blog...what do you want to see?

On Knowing Your Characters by Marilyn Meredith

It's Not My Thing...

Kim Baccellia, YA Author

Get Ready to Write

As you can see, Jean does a lot of blogging in one month! In fact, she's the blog mistress! Send any posts you have to Jean for open blog days (Fridays) and she'll take care of you: wowblog@wow-womenonwriting.com. She's great on the fly, and has a lot to offer women writers. Get involved in the dialogue by commenting on her posts!

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Contributing Editor Chynna Laird's Blog Day: Saturdays

Chynna lives 'in the trenches'. Her blog posts are sure to capture your spirits in your journey as a freelance writer. She's an amazing inspiration, as a stay-at-home mom with three children under five-years of age, Chynna proves that if there's a will, there's a way. Her lively attitude and light-hearted (yet informative) posts make joyous reading for your fun-filled Saturdays! Recent posts include:

Write, write...ENTER!!

Toddlers: Writing Gurus?

As Per Your Request: A "NOT TO DO" List (Want a laugh? This one had us rolling!)

Stretch that Writing Cap!

The Almighty Cover/Query Letter

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There's a lot happening on The Muffin!

Recently, we've just added a feedburner so you can receive blog posts by email! Visit The Muffin and sign up on the right-hand sidebar.

And as always we offer you some fabulous link juice: Provide a link to WOW! Women On Writing, either our blog or our website, and we will include you in our Blog Roll!

Spread the word, and we'll spread yours. Be sure to comment on our blog and let us know that you linked to us.

We only check once a month through two different sources, and sometimes they aren't as accurate as we'd like them to be. So, tout your flair! Tell us, and join the conversation. We always appreciate your comments, no matter how large or small -- your opinion matters greatly!

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 ANGELA'S TRUE CONFESSIONS
 On the Editor's Desk

From the "F-r-e-s-h Issue" to "F-r-e-s-h-l-y Squeezed Juice"--A Year in the Making.

Angela's stories prove that women can be their own quirky (sometimes outrageous) selves and succeed. Being yourself is what ties us women together! We embrace our differences and unite in common goals.

But she emphasizes that WOW! is made up of a million different voices: "I've said it before--our growing community of women writers/readers are the nicest, most thoughtful, and warm-hearted women on the planet. I'm truly honored to be a part of the vehicle that helps bring us all together."

Find out why and how WOW! started, and hear some funny anecdotes along the way as Angela gives thanks to us all.

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 An Invite from Associated Content

Associated Content invites everyone to contribute original text, video, audio and images on any topic to gain exposure and earn cash.

Do you love to write? Why not submit your own original text to Associated Content? Associated Content is an online community where everyone contributes content on any topic to gain exposure. (You can even earn cash!) Choose your own subjects and work at your own pace while building an online portfolio. Write, gain exposure and become a part of a community of Content Producers that share your interests. Video, audio and images are also accepted.

To get started, visit Associated Content>>

 Must-Read of the Month!

Mothering Mother

A Memoir, by Carol D. O'Dell

Review from Booklist:

O'Dell, a member of the "sandwich generation"--made up of boomers taking care of both their own children and their elderly parents--portrays the experience of looking after a mother suffering from Alzheimer's and Parkinson's with brutal honesty and refreshing grace.

She peppers the memoir with scenes from her past, including meeting her adoptive parents ("The first time I saw Mama, I was four years old") and the death of her father. With three children and a husband of her own, O'Dell is torn in multiple directions, trying to be mother, daughter, nurse, cook, caregiver, maid, and more to a household of needy people. Mama's neediness is unrelenting, and O'Dell is at once bitter and sorry that her mother cannot be who she was.

When the inevitable end comes, O'Dell wonders why she longed for the free time she now finds lonely and empty. A beautiful rendering of a difficult but all-too-common situation, told with plenty of humor, a touch of martyrdom, and much love.

-- Mary Frances Wilkens

FIND OUT MORE>>

 From the Articles Section:

Sabrina Jeffries is a missionary's daughter turned romance writer. She uses her colorful youth to write the kind of books she loves to read. Not only has she written some great books, she has some great advice for all writers.

Here are some of Sabrina's articles we're highlighting:

Tips for Beginning Romance Writers

Creating Villains

Bringing History to Life in Romance

Building Believable Characters

Self-Editing for the Flabby Writer

Dictionary of Publishing Terms

READ THESE ARTICLES HERE>>

 ANNOUNCEMENTS from WOW! ALUMNI:

Carolyn Howard-Johnson Receives a National Award!

Award-winning author Carolyn Howard-Johnson will receive the American Business Women's Association (ABWA) Outstanding Woman Award at their 19th national American Business Women's Day Celebration, Sat., Sept. 8, at the Embassy Suites Hotel, Anaheim, CA.

The ABWA is an organization that brings together businesswomen of diverse occupations and provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. Their motto "Together we can do it" unites tens of thousands of members throughout the world who benefit from membership and its national magazine Women in Business. http://www.abwa.org

Way to go Carolyn!!!

Of course, all of you WOW! readers know who Carolyn, but if you're new to WOW! find out the latest and learn what she's up to by visiting her site: http://www.howtodoitfrugally.com

Be sure to check out Carolyn's interview in this month's WOW! HERE. Send your congrats to: HoJoNews@aol.com

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Special Offer for WOW! Readers from Patricia Fry!

Patricia Fry offers a prepublication discount for WOW! readers/writers on her new Author's Workbook and the newly revised 366-page companion book, The Right Way to Write, Publish, and Sell Your Book.

Discount offer good through September 20, 2007.

Hurry and take advantage of this super deal! Visit: http://www.matilijapress.com/rightway.html today!

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Giveaways from the Writer Mama, Christina Katz!

September 1-30, 2007

The Writer Mama, Christina Katz, is giving away a writing tool a day through her blog, The Writer Mama Riffs, every day for thirty days during the month of September. In addition to over thirty prizes such as Writer's Digest 2008 Market books, she's giving away ten signed copies of her book, Writer Mama, How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids and a one-hour writing career phone consult.

Moms and Dads who write are especially encouraged to participate in celebration of this hectic yet wonderful back-to-school time of year. However, anyone who participates is eligible to win daily prizes.

For a complete list of giveaways: Click here for the Giveaway List

For official rules and how to win: Click here for Official Giveaway Rules

Christina hopes to see your comments in her blog so you can be eligible to win prizes in the Writer Mama Back-to-School Daily Giveaway!

Ladies, you heard it! What an awesome giveaway! Plus a one-hour writing career phone consult -- now that's above and beyond and a fantastic prize!

Thank you Christina for offering this to WOW! readers.

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Congratulations to Lauren Baratz-Logsted!

Lauren's amazing book, Angel's Choice, has just gone into its second printing!

From School Library Journal:

Grade 9 Up -- Angel Hansen, 17, has been in love with Danny Stanton for what seems like a lifetime. When he rejects her at an end-of-summer blowout party, the drunk teen ends up having a one-night stand with someone else, which results in her becoming pregnant. Beginning with that fateful night, journal-style entries take readers on the 10-month journey that Angel must make as she defies all odds and decides to keep the baby. She finds an unexpected ally in Danny, who walks away from his jock image to step into the role of boyfriend/replacement father.

While the story moves along at a fairly rapid pace, there are times when the characters are somewhat puzzling, such as Danny suddenly shifting his feelings for Angel. This first-person narrative offers a vivid portrait of the dark side of fleeting hookups and teen pregnancy. It will resonate with older teens.

-- Caryl Soriano

Way to go Lauren!!

Find out more about Lauren and the exciting things she's up to by visiting her website: http://www.laurenbaratzlogsted.com

Lauren is one of the most prolific authors out there, and her books are a refreshing escape from daily life. Believe me, you'll get wrapped up!

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Kathryn Jordan speaks on "The Challenges of Creating Characters from Real People and Events."

November 20, 2007
11:30am - 1:30pm
Palm Desert Country Club
Palm Desert, CA

Kathryn will share the trials and tribulations of bringing to life 1920s silent screen star, Gladys Walton, and her infamous boyfriend, Al Capone, at the Palm Springs Branch of the National League of American Pen Women.

Kathryn Jordan said, "Adding historic details is like cooking - sometimes a pinch is just enough."

Reservations are a must. Call Estelle Shanley: 760.771.5849 by November 12th, or e-mail: estelleshanley@aol.com. Cost for members is $20, non-members $25.

Find out more by visiting Kathryn's website: http://www.kathrynjordan.com/

Hope to see you there!

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Are you an Alumni Member (previously featured on WOW!) who'd like to be in our announcements section?

We'd love to hear what you've been up to! Drop us a note: buzz@wow-womenonwriting.com

 WOW!'s Website Find of the Month

A Website for Mom Writers:

www.momwriterslitmag.com

Mom Writer's Literary Magazine fills its own unique niche for women. The magazine's Founding Editor & Publisher, Paula Schmitt, sees her magazine as "a publication written by moms for moms across the globe who come together to share their stories. We publish creative nonfiction essays, fiction, columns, book reviews, profiles about mom writers and visual art."

The magazine is celebrating its two-year anniversary and its print magazine launch. The women behind the magazine have quite a lot to hip, hoot, and holler about!

FIND OUT MORE>>