Sandy Vaile empowers female contemporary fiction writers to plan and finish novels traditional publishers can't resist!
Write confidently. Get noticed. Get published.
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Sandy Vaile the Fiction Coach
Sandy Vaile is dedicated to empowering female fiction writers to finish contemporary, genre novels the Big 5 traditional publishers can’t resist, through developing positive writing processes that suit their lifestyles and instil confidence in their creative choices, while celebrating their unique voice.
During her own journey to traditional publication, Sandy was overwhelmed by juggling the many elements needed to create a compelling novel, and searched for a more harmonious way to apply all the writing techniques and plot points. This led her to (a few grey hairs and) the development of her revolutionary Active Storytelling Method. This simple way of crafting compelling novels has enabled countless authors to enjoy rapid and permanent improvements in the flow, articulation and elegance of their writing.
Her favourite way of working with authors is in small groups, over extended periods, because that's how significant and lasting changes come about in authors' skills and confidence.
Sandy has delivered training around the globe for two decades, first in the corporate world and then in the fiction industry, with courses that have been adapted for online and face-to-face delivery. Recipients include Romance Writers of Australia, Clare Readers and Writers Festival, Salt Festival, Writers SA, Savvy Authors, Margie Lawson, Womens Fiction Writing Association, and Romantic Women’s Fiction.
In her spare time, Sandy judged literary competitions, does a little ghost writing, developmental editing and run a lively and supportive private Facebook group .
During her own journey to traditional publication, Sandy was overwhelmed by juggling the many elements needed to create a compelling novel, and searched for a more harmonious way to apply all the writing techniques and plot points. This led her to (a few grey hairs and) the development of her revolutionary Active Storytelling Method. This simple way of crafting compelling novels has enabled countless authors to enjoy rapid and permanent improvements in the flow, articulation and elegance of their writing.
Her favourite way of working with authors is in small groups, over extended periods, because that's how significant and lasting changes come about in authors' skills and confidence.
Sandy has delivered training around the globe for two decades, first in the corporate world and then in the fiction industry, with courses that have been adapted for online and face-to-face delivery. Recipients include Romance Writers of Australia, Clare Readers and Writers Festival, Salt Festival, Writers SA, Savvy Authors, Margie Lawson, Womens Fiction Writing Association, and Romantic Women’s Fiction.
In her spare time, Sandy judged literary competitions, does a little ghost writing, developmental editing and run a lively and supportive private Facebook group .
Sandy Vaile the Author
The mere sight of a book soothes my soul and excites my senses. It's more than just an escape from reality, it's a place I can explore, laugh, cry and love. A place I can experience challenges, heartbreaks, triumphs and dangerous situations, and all from the comfort of my lounge chair.
I write romantic-suspense for Simon & Schuster US but how did I get here?
Where my writing journey began
Naturally, reading has always been a big part of my life, and no doubt starting with books like "The Little Grey Men" by BB inspired me to imagine all kinds of fantastical creatures and worlds. I started penning stories about fairies floating in bubbles and gnomes living in the hills at an early age.
Then, as a horse-mad teenager I progressed to writing about wild brumbies and wild landscapes.
I even had a career as a journalist mapped out, right up until the end of high school, when I received some tough lessons about the unexpected nature of life.
A thirteen year detour
I moved out of home at the tender age of sixteen and struggled to provide food, shelter and stability for myself. It was a tough time that diverted me from my true calling (writing) for a long time. It wasn't until I hit middle-age that I rediscovered the joy of reading and writing, and decided to make my life-long dream of publication come true. I was reading urban fantasy at the time, so I sat down and wrote 60,000 words in the first six weeks. Now that's enthusiasm!
Of course, it took a lot longer to finish, edit and submit that manuscript and it has still never been published. They weren't wasted words though because now I knew I could do it. I could write a fiction novel! I dabbled in sci-fi, fantasy and short stories but my real love is suspense. I can't imagine why [wink].
After learning all about the importance of resilience, I became fascinated by how courageous, regular people are when pushed to fight for something they truly believe in or desperately want. So, this is something I explore in my novels through the courageous heroines and robust heroes who meet them halfway.
All of my novels are set on the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia and explore finding your inner strength and a place to call home.
I write romantic-suspense for Simon & Schuster US but how did I get here?
Where my writing journey began
Naturally, reading has always been a big part of my life, and no doubt starting with books like "The Little Grey Men" by BB inspired me to imagine all kinds of fantastical creatures and worlds. I started penning stories about fairies floating in bubbles and gnomes living in the hills at an early age.
Then, as a horse-mad teenager I progressed to writing about wild brumbies and wild landscapes.
I even had a career as a journalist mapped out, right up until the end of high school, when I received some tough lessons about the unexpected nature of life.
A thirteen year detour
I moved out of home at the tender age of sixteen and struggled to provide food, shelter and stability for myself. It was a tough time that diverted me from my true calling (writing) for a long time. It wasn't until I hit middle-age that I rediscovered the joy of reading and writing, and decided to make my life-long dream of publication come true. I was reading urban fantasy at the time, so I sat down and wrote 60,000 words in the first six weeks. Now that's enthusiasm!
Of course, it took a lot longer to finish, edit and submit that manuscript and it has still never been published. They weren't wasted words though because now I knew I could do it. I could write a fiction novel! I dabbled in sci-fi, fantasy and short stories but my real love is suspense. I can't imagine why [wink].
After learning all about the importance of resilience, I became fascinated by how courageous, regular people are when pushed to fight for something they truly believe in or desperately want. So, this is something I explore in my novels through the courageous heroines and robust heroes who meet them halfway.
All of my novels are set on the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia and explore finding your inner strength and a place to call home.
Sandy's writing community
I find that an active involvement in the literary community is vital to replenishing my motivation and keeping me abreast of industry changes. So, I regularly attend conferences, festivals, workshops and writing retreats.
I'm a strong believer that you receive what you send into the world, which is why I formed the Novelists' Circle (a face-to-face critiquing group) in 2010, which is still going strong with two groups.
Sandy's Facebook group provides a nurturing environment where female fiction novelists share information, motivate one another and improve technical skills. Many community members have gone onto publication (traditional and self-publishing).
I find that an active involvement in the literary community is vital to replenishing my motivation and keeping me abreast of industry changes. So, I regularly attend conferences, festivals, workshops and writing retreats.
I'm a strong believer that you receive what you send into the world, which is why I formed the Novelists' Circle (a face-to-face critiquing group) in 2010, which is still going strong with two groups.
Sandy's Facebook group provides a nurturing environment where female fiction novelists share information, motivate one another and improve technical skills. Many community members have gone onto publication (traditional and self-publishing).
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Sandy Vaile the AdventurerOkay, I'll admit to being a motorbike-riding daredevil who isn't content with a story unless there's a courageous heroine, a dead body and a healing romance.
But my excuse is that it gives me a wealth of life experiences to draw on when writing books! Experiences like riding a motorbike, skydiving, hot air ballooning, getting tattooed, swimming with sharks and sea turtles, and having the privilege of carrying the Olympic flame. My life motto is ... I'll try anything once! My love of adventure and action sports started early with a childhood horse obsession that resulted in 3-day eventing (that's dressage, cross-country and show jumping). I also lived in Papua New Guinea for a few years, which meant lots of water sports and learning the local Pigeon English language (of course, I hardly remember a word now!). And finally, turning my hand to motorbike riding after a joy ride firmly embedded the craving. Thank goodness I have a wonderful husband who supports all of my crazy schemes. |
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Sandy's Values
Career Highlights
Awards
Published stories
Competition placement
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