Rachael Thomas

It's hard to believe that this time last week the fabulous RNA conference, held at Harper Adams University in Telford, was just beginning. A whole weekend of talking writing romance with friends, making new friends and attending the sessions which kept us inspired all weekend.

There was a little bit of doubt as to whether I'd get there, as my travel companion Melissa Morgan explains on her blog.

The sessions I enjoyed most were Nikki Logan on The Chemistry of Reading, Janet Gover on Location, Location, Location and Clare Mackintosh on Write to Sell Yourself. As ever, there were the toss up moments, which session to go to, but that's where friends help out by exchanging notes or handouts.

Nikki Logan - The Chemistry of Reading

The Gala dinner, held on the Saturday evening, was a chance for me to drag out my heels and party dress. It was a fantastic evening, with wonderful food and much laughter.

Me and Melissa Morgan

It was also an extra special conference for me, as I attended as a soon to be published author, which after about seven years as a member of the New Writers' Scheme is a wonderful feeling. Then just to add a bit more fun, Harper Adams is an agriculture campus, complete with livestock, which was like home from home for me and I couldn't resist a peek at the calves and cows. The pigs and their smell was a bit too much - even for me!