Help an Aspiring Author Write Her Dream

My name is Tatianna Mathews-Richardson. And I love words.

I've been a writer ever since I could read, turning those passions into two English degrees, with a Ph.D. that was looming. After having my daughter, I realized my passions were not in the academy but as a writer of the things that I loved to read.

When I turned 40, I made the conscious decision to pursue my professional writing career full-time (while being a wife, mother and full-time employee).  Since then, I've submitted to various journals, created my on-line presence, and attended a few conferences. But most of all, I finally completed a full manuscript: a sweet romance which puts two URM (underrepresented minorities) at the center.

This is where I need your help. Being a writer isn't the "life of Riley". It takes money, effort and most of all, determination. Did I mention money? With daycare, student loans, and other expenses, it has been virtually impossible to do the things that most writers can such as:

1) Joining Professional Writing Organizations: For me, organizations such as Romance Writers of America (RWA) and Science Fiction Writers of America require you to not only join the national chapter but also local chapters. These chapters provide a wealth of knowledge and access to literary agents, proofreaders, and best practices. Fees can range anywhere from $100-300

2) Attend Writing Conferences: Conferences such as Atlanta Writers Conference, RWA Moonlight and Magnolias Atlanta Conference, Writers Digest Novelist Conference are quite expensive. Including the fees for registration ($400-600), you must also include hotel fees, transportation, meals and etc. ($500-1000)

3)Revamp and refurbish on-line presence: Every author needs a great website. And while I have been able to get the "bare bones" going, I could certainly need the help of a professional

4) Enter writing contests and programs: I would like to enter the Entangled Publishing  CIMRWA Author Incubator program. It would pair me with an established romance writer to get valuable help with my writing. However, to start, I would need to join the RWA and CIMRWA chapters and that costs! The deadline for this is OCTOBER 10.


As I always say: The Great American Novel is within me. I just need to write it. And with your help, I can. With this fundraiser, this would allow me to pitch and query my first novel at any upcoming conference. This fee would cover registration, securing a pitch spot with an agent, and registering in a professional organization (such as RWA). 

You can learn more about me and my journey at www.TatiannaRichardson.com

IG: @RichardWritesOn
Twitter:@RichardsonTMM 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/RichardWritesOn