Gold Coast, here I come!

In case you were wondering where I'll be this week, it's here...on the sunny Gold Coast in southern Queensland.

It's winter at the moment (and absolutely freezing in Melbourne!) When I checked the Surfer's Paradise temperatures for this week, they ranged from 23-27 degrees Celsius. Heatwave!

I'm looking forward to some much needed sun and R&R. And catching up with my fab author buddies at the RWAus conference next weekend.
It's going to be a blast!

As for that RBY nomination...well, let's just say while I'm not expecting to win, I still have butterflies in my tummy!

Gold Coast, here I come!

Yeah, I've just booked flights so this is where I'm headed in August!

With BUSTED IN BOLLYWOOD being my first book to final in the R*BY Awards, I really wanted to be there and I can't wait to catch up with writing buddies at the Gold Coast.

(took this pic while I was at the last conference there in 2006.)

So who else is coming?

Immersion therapy

Currently immersed in revisions for THE HIGH LIFE.

One of the changes involves removing my fictitious Greek island for the last 20% of the story and concentrating the entire book here, at the Palazzo Versace, where I recently researched the book before writing it.

I took loads of pics while I was there (I only posted 2 here not to bore you!) and flicking back through them really helps at this layering stage.

Can't you see how hard I worked during the research phase of this book?

But somebody's gotta do it

I know, I know, it's a tough life but somebody's gotta do it!

The bulk of my book takes place at the Gold Coast's PALAZZO VERSACE, so it's only fair I do some first hand research for authenticity's sake.

Arguably Australia's most luxurious hotel, the place looks truly amazing on the Net but not enough details for my book so I made a reservation.

I'll let you know all the details when I get back.

And guess what? They have cabanas by the pool!

Wonder if they'll have cabana boys...

AWOL

As of last Sunday, I'm away on a much needed, well earned holiday.
Here.
I took this pic of Queensland's sunny Gold Coast 5 years ago, the last time I had a proper holiday.

Considering the recent deluge they've had, I'm hopeful for this kind of weather. Doubtful, but hopeful.

First 2 days is research, the rest is blissful, fun family time.

I've preloaded a bunch of posts here to keep you occupied while I'm away.

Bet you won't even miss me!