Oh my gosh–I don’t know where to start! I took the drive down from Jersey to attend the Virginia Romance Writers’ 2016 Awards Luncheon because I was excited to meet members of VRW as well as other finalists. The event had a tea party theme, and it was fun to see individual writers’ personalities reflected in their outfits from tiny top hat to fireman’s helmet. The air was thick with good humor, creativity, and the smell of fragrant tea.
Jacqueline Bragaw was one of the first writers I met and the organizer of the event. She was so sweet, welcoming, and witty as were many members of VRW. Guest speakers Carolyn Greene and Cynthia Holt Johnson delivered a humorous and heartfelt presentation of the origins of the VRW, The Fool for Love Contest, the Holt, and their their own journey as writers.
As Jacqueline–with poise and panache–began to announce the results of the Fool for Love Contest, my hands started to shake. I had no clue what to expect and was honored just to be a finalist in a contest that helped so many writers get their start. When she announced that BENEATH US took first place, I couldn’t believe it!
Sadly, the Luncheon soon came to an end, but I got to keep my tea cup, my memories, and hope to see members from the VRW visit the New Jersey Romance Writers for our October Conference!
To find more information about The Fool for Love Contest and VRW’s published author contest, The Holt, click here.
Michelle Joyce Bond
Recently, I received call from a Contest Chair, Megan Randall, who was happy to share the news that I finaled in the YA category of Virginia Romance Writers’ 
michellejoycebond.com 