Described as a “superb psychological suspense writer” by the Seattle Book Review and a crafter of endings “that make your jaw drop” by the New York Times Review, Charlie Donlea has sold more than 1.5 million copies in the U.S. His books have been published in forty countries and translated into nearly twenty languages. How did he get his work out into the world? What did he have to do and who did he have to meet? That’s what he will be discussing with BWW members on June 15th at Barrington’s White House.
His talk will focus on his path to publication. He will describe his process of writing and editing for publication. How did he find and work with an agent, editor and publishing house? He won’t keep us in suspense as he reveals his personal journey of becoming a best-selling author. Doors open at 9:00am. The BWW session begins at 9:30 am. Coffee, tea and pastries will be served. But that’s not all! You’re invited to stay for more insights from this author during the public event that follows at no cost.
Mr. Donlea has agreed to give a public presentation at 11:00am at Barrington’s White House. During this event he will talk about being a writer while balancing marriage, parenthood, and a full-time profession outside of the publishing industry. He will share the story behind his stories, where his ideas come from and what he’s learned from critics, readers, and publishing insiders. His 2021 book Twenty Years Later, a New York Times Best Thriller, is being adapted for television. BWW members will receive free admission to this event. Get inspired by this engaging author and his work.
Mr. Donlea’s page-turning thriller books include: Summit Lake, The Girl Who Was Taken, Don’t Believe It, Some Choose Darkness, The Suicide House, Twenty Years Later, and Those Empty Eyes.
Barrington’s White House is located at 145 W Main Street in Barrington. Please let your manuscript chair know if you plan to attend the event on Saturday, June 15th.
I’ve been drawn to writing strong female characters because I grew up with strong, clearly defined women. My mother moved to Chicago when she was 18 to work in early radio. After the start of World War II, she volunteered for the navy. She put herself through college to get her BS, masters, and PhD, as a single mom. My paternal grandmother got her bachelor’s degree in math in 1917 because she was told women couldn’t major in chemistry, her primary interest. I found myself in the care of quite a few women, most of whom were highly motivated, with well-defined personalities. I began writing from the female POV when a character in one of my stories dared me to write her story.
Several BWW poets read their work during the second annual Poetry in the Park event held at Citizens Park in Barrington. Organized by the Barrington Cultural Commission the outdoor event theme was Summer: Sunshine and Storms. A brief biography read by emcee Janette Tepas introduced each poet as they walked to the podium accompanied by music from jazz duo Peter Swenson on guitar and Jason Dziedzic on bass. Approximately 120 audience members showed their appreciation with a round of applause for each poet.
Book ideas don’t always (often? ever?) leap into a writer’s mind full-blown. Sometimes disparate bits of a book have to be assembled like the parts of a stained-glass window. The idea for my new book, Glass Girl, came together in three pieces.
