My Harlequin Moment by ChelleS

It’s so hard to choose a particular Harlequin moment that is worthy above all. I could go on and on about my favorite Harlequin books or authors among the various lines, but what has meant the most to me is eHarlequin. For an aspiring author, the community forum is priceless. Not only can we talk directly with our favorite authors, the Learn to Write section and articles are an absolute Godsend for newbies.

The wealth of information available for writers and readers alike is phenomenal. Reading and writing challenges, blogs, contemporary series, multicultural, inspirational, romantic suspense, hot and spicy or sizzling Desires, online reads, mainstream, paranormal and fantasy--so many great reads to choose from once I ventured out of my comfort zone. There is truly something for everyone.

The huge amount of info on the site was almost overwhelming for a little country girl from Oklahoma who grew up reading her aunt’s Harlequin Historicals. I had heard the “voices” and dreamed of writing a novel since I was a teenager, but never had the gumption to follow through until I came across eHarlequin. My husband almost began to regret pushing and encouraging me to follow my dream when I became obsessed with the forums. I was a sponge and loved checking out the little nooks and crannies, each article and thread interesting. That was a little over two years ago.

I think it’s incredible to have the opportunity to read under specific line guidelines or listen to the Podcasts to know exactly what the editors are looking for. And there are even submission samples to show us how it’s done. To be able to write a read worthy story is hard enough, but eHarlequin has given us the formula. Kudos to so many of you that make the site as spectacular as it is!

I took the writing plunge when I heard about a local conference and signed up for several romance panel discussions. I could feel the excitement in the room as I tried to blend and politely NOT listen to the discussions around me. I definitely wasn’t alone in my newbie status. But what amazed me…the authors mingling in the crowd. A dear, sweet woman who’d been talking nearby joined the panel at the table in the front of the room. It was the first time that I met Sharon Sala. I was already a fan of hers, but she had me at hello. I was nervous as all get out when I approached her after the group began to disperse. Bless her heart, I know I stuttered and stammered and I’m not really sure what I said, but her words of encouragement meant so much to me. She suggested I join our local RWA group, the Oklahoma Outlaws. Once I joined the group, I was overwhelmed by the amazing group of talented authors who are so intent on helping their fellow writers.

I went home and immediately got on the eHarlequin forums so I could share my thoughts and notes from the day. I was energized and knew that I had to follow my dream to write. I am addicted. The excitement is contagious when our friends from the site do well. The support is my foundation. Even better than that is walking into a bookstore, picking up a book and personally knowing the author and how much of their heart went into that story.

eHarlequin is my go to guide. Whether it’s a source for the latest releases I can buy before they hit the shelf, or to hold me back on those crazy days when I’m about to scream if just one more person says, “When are you going to get a real job?” Where else can a writer have access to the valuable advice when an editor slips into a thread to offer her words of wisdom? eHarlequin is the compass to help us navigate through the rough waters to reach our paradise destination--published author.

About The Community Member:

Chelle Sandell has been a community member and struggling writer since 2006. When she’s not writing to release the stories tumbling through her brain, she’s on the roller coaster ride of her life with her own personal cowboy hero. They have two boys and four dogs trailing behind, offering a bit of excitement along the way. Chelle was one of the fortunate 2007 participants to win an online pitch with a Superromance editor, Wanda Ottewell, and a third place finalist in the 2008 MSRW Dixie First Chapter contest.