I went to the Tornado Alley writers conference yesterday in Norman. It’s a two-hour drive for me from Enid. But I made that drive every other Saturday for two years while I was getting my Paralegal certificate (as I worked and raised teenagers). It wasn’t as easy as it was when I was young. But it was worth it.

Tornado Alley is a state-wide group of mystery writers who are affiliated with the National Sisters in Crime club. I got to rub shoulders with some of the best writers in the state and I was in my element.

The keynote speaker was Hank Phillipi Ryan Hank Phillippi Ryan – Wikipedia, an investigative reporter for Channel 7 out of Boston and a bestselling writer of many mystery and suspense novels. She talked to a room full of writers about the “Muddle in the Middle” or what to do with that story you are writing that has a great beginning and even better ending—but what do you do with the middle where it sags.

Mel Odom Mel Odom (author) – Wikipedia, creative writing professor from OU and author of over 200 titles, spoke on using AI in your writing and when you shouldn’t.

Peggy Doviak Peggy Doviak | Syndicated radio host, speaker and bestselling author spoke about finances and writers.

It was a great day, and I learned a lot from all the speakers. I’d do it again.

Headed home we were stuck in 5 mph traffic on the I-35 and then detours. It took a while to get home, but I slept well last night!

The venue was wonderful, and I was in my element with 50 plus authors who were all there for the same reason—to learn to make their writing better. I can’t wait to do it again.

What are you reading, writing, or creating this week?