Mystery Writers Convention comes to Rosemont
Local writers searching for the secrets to penning the next best-selling mystery novel may not have to look far as the 13th annual Love is Murder Mystery Writers Convention comes to the suburbs.
Best-selling novelists like David Morrell, author of the "Rambo" series and nearly two dozen other novels, will share the keys to their success at the event, which takes place Friday and Saturday at the Intercontinental Chicago O'Hare in Rosemont.
"Be a first rate version of yourself, not a second-rate version of someone else," Morrell said, adding that while it's important to find authors you enjoy, it's even more important not to just copy their work.
"No one ever had a career imitating another author," he said. "Find your own voice, your own subject matter and write books that only you could have written."
Donald Bain, author of the "Murder, She Wrote" series, will be a featured speaker at the convention. He said he is looking forward to passing on his positive attitude.
"I've always operated under the philosophy of say "'no' to nothing," said Bain, who has written more than 115 books.
He also recommends talking to readers and getting new sets of eyes on your work for a fresh perspective.
"Writing is a solitary thing and you wonder who is reading or buying a book, so seeing and talking to the fans is just wonderful," Bain said. "They're the most important people in the chain."
Authors will be leading panels about all things mystery related, including writing about crime scenes, guns, fingerprinting and romance. Writers will also learn how to pitch novels and craft a series.
Writers with an idea at the tip their pen will even have a chance to sell their ideas at the convention during the "Pitchapalooza" session. For an extra $75, participants can sit down and make their pitch to industry publishers.
Although the publishing industry is changing, Morrell said he thinks now is the best time for new writers because of the ability to self publish or publish e-books.
"It's really tragic for some authors because they can be so good but never get past the gatekeepers of publishers and agents," Morrell said. "But now that book can find an audience online or as an e-book and I think that's very freeing for authors."
Other featured authors are Julie James, Hank Phillippi Ryan and local guest of honor Julie Hyzy of Tinley Park.
"You listen to these experienced writers talk about how they came up through the trenches and it's inspirational," Hyzy said. "The more you hear the more you realize, 'I can do that too.' Listen with an open mind and you'll learn so much."
Love is Murder Mystery Writers Convention
Where: Intercontinental Chicago O'Hare in Rosemont.
When: Friday to SundayCost: $349 for the entire weekend, less to register for individual days. Walk ins are welcome and registration is still open.
More info: www.loveismurder.net