The Launch Of Betrothed: A Night Of Fantasy, Faith and Friendship

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the book launch of Betrothed, published by Pantera Press, written by Wanda Wiltshire. The launch was held at Dymocks George St, Sydney.  Wanda is one of my former writing students, a friend and a very talented writer. It was wonderful to be able to celebrate this debut with her and there is no one more deserving than Wanda.  A few years ago she walked into one of my classes and said she'd written a book after having dreamt (literally) that was what she had to do. I won't say too much as Wanda will be telling her story here on the blog soon, but I will say that I have never seen anyone with more determination to finish her novel to the highest possible standard and to have it published. I should actually say novels because Betrothed is the first in a six part series. What Wanda has that many writers lack is faith - in her story, in her own abilities and in the publishing process.  That's not to say that Wanda is brimming with confidence - she has the same insecurities all writers have - is it good enough, will anyone like it, and now who's going to buy it - but her belief in what she is writing has kept her focused and sitting at that computer. She is currently working on the next book in the Betrothed series and has outlines for the rest of them, as well as having written two other novels in the few years I have known her.  It was wonderful to be able to celebrate this milestone with Wanda and a number of other former students, all very talented writers, who have become firm friends. It's rare that such a dedicated, enthusiastic group comes along and I feel very priveleged to have been a part of their writing journey. I know that in future years their books will be joining Wanda's on the book-store shelves and that's because they too are determined and dedicated.  If you love Fantasy, Romance or both look for Betrothed in your local book store from Monday. You won't be disappointed!For a review of Betrothed click here:http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17975557-betrothed