When it comes to advice about any situation, the best counsel comes from those who have "been there, done that." Learning from the experiences of other authors can help you when it comes to speaking at booksignings, pitching an agent or editor, or chatting with your readers.

Romance authors Meredith Bond and Joan Kilby share their comments regarding speaking. In their opinion, it’s all about focus and enjoying the experience!

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In 2002, Meredith was one of the three winners of the Royal Ascot Writing Contest. Her novel, "Miss Seton’s Sonata" received the 2004 Golden Leaf Award. Her most recent novel, "Love of My Life" was released in June 2005. "Dame Fortune" will be available September 2005.

"Writers, as you know, are naturally often a shy bunch. For the most part, I hold that stereotype to be true. However, when I begin to talk about my work, I can't help but get caught up in what I'm discussing. Writing is the thing that I love the most."

Meredith admits that when she is called upon to speak, she gets the jitters! She said, "My hands and voice will shake terribly." But, once she begins to speak her enthusiasm bubbles over and she can focus on what she is sharing with her audience. In the end she "manages to make it through."

With regard to booksignings, Meredith finds it easier to speak because it feels like a one-on-one conversation. In addition, guests are genuinely interested in her work. When it comes to public speaking, Meredith has discovered that booksignings can be a worthwhile experience.

Joan’s first novel "A Father’s Place" (1998) was a RITA finalist for Best First Book, a finalist for the National Readers Choice Award, and finalist for the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice award for Best First Book. With over 11 novels to her credit, Joan’s next SuperRomance, "Party of Three", comes out in January 2006. She is also a member of Toastmasters International.

Joan provided a suggestion that authors can employ with any speaking situation. Joan recommends that authors "simply relax and enjoy yourself and let your enthusiasm for your subject shine through."

Joan has experience when it comes to speaking to groups. In fact, she talked about her most recent engagement at a library. She discussed writing romance, her books, and her experiences as a writer.

"Afterward a member of the audience came up to me and after thanking me for an entertaining talk said, "you radiate happiness." The comment surprised me at the time, but in hindsight, I realized I am happy when talking about what I love doing - writing romance novels."

Joan also shared two important tips for writers that present at conference workshops. She stated, "The main thing I've learned over the years, and had confirmed by Toastmasters, is: (1) Don't throw too much information at the audience. They won't be able to absorb it all. So many will go away learning less than if you had stuck to a more modest agenda. (2) Reinforce each point with concrete examples to allow the concepts to sink in."

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