From Start to Finish with Christine D’Abo

By Douglas Owen

From start to finish, Christine D’Abo brought a level of energy and enthusiasm rarely matched by other presenters to the June WCYR general meeting. After a short introduction, Christine took us through a remarkable journey into the basics of romance, and how it can build up any story a writer can twist it into.

But that was only the start. Soon she had everyone paired up and writing a joint romance-themed story. From a divorced woman and a widowed father to a worldly gnome and a naive fairy the range of stories our writers created were unique and noteworthy. And as the room went from shocked excitement to laughter, each person realized how much their stories can be enhanced with an easy twist of words.

Laughter, nods of understanding, and a great deal of wisdom passed between everyone as they all came to realize the day increased their knowledge of writing.

As one of the participants, I look forward to using the tools handed to us by Christine. From this day forward, let it be known, that romance (and not just a love story) will always be a part of the writing I create.

The WCYR can’t thank Christine D’Abo enough for sharing her expertise and insights on such a muggy June day … or maybe that was just the heat of our stories.

Douglas Owen is a writer of Speculative Fiction and the managing editor for DAOwen Publications, a small Canadian Press with four imprints: Tumbleweed Books (Fiction & Picture Books), Science Fiction & Fantasy Publications (SFF), Wicked Tales (Horror/Thriller), and Love Knot Books (Romance). Douglas is a long-time member of the WCYR and lead Coordinator for the board’s Special Events division.