Romance novels are known for giving readers the assurance of a happy ending.

I couldn’t have written more than fifty romance novels in lines from sweet to romantic suspense, if they didn’t end happily. I also enjoy sharing the writing craft through the Valerie Parv Award where I mentor the winning writer during their winning year.

This is the 12th anniversary of the award, named after me by Romance Writers of Australia and many winners are now successfully published. Not only does the award create happy endings but also exciting beginnings to many writers’ careers.

If the award has one challenge (apart from competing against an increasing number of very talented entrants) it’s that there can only be one winner. There simply isn’t enough time for my own writing while committing to a year-long mentoring relationship, and helping the many writers who approach me for individual advice.

That’s why I’ve created a limited number of mini mentorships called MentorXpress.

What is MentorXpress?
MentorXpress is like speed dating for romance writers, giving you a short writer / mentor experience that lets you progress with more confidence.

The package involves submitting a two-page synopsis of your book and up to 45 double-spaced pages of your manuscript in any romance or related genre including single title with romantic elements. You receive three pages of feedback followed by a 25-minute phone call to discuss and answer your questions.

MentorXpress costs $430 (incl GST)

Please note : entries in the Valerie Parv Award are judged anonymously to ensure fairness. MentorXPress participants can choose to work on any project except one they intend to enter in the award. However you can apply what you learn to your entry and your future writing.

Valerie Parv BA, AIPC (Dip), is a writer, trainer and counselor who conducts seminars on creativity and all aspects of the writing craft throughout Australia.

Published since age 14, she has written 55 romance novels and 20 nonfiction books including The Art of Romance Writing, now in its fourth edition, and The Idea Factory, on which Free the Writer in You is based.

Her work has been translated into more than 20 languages.

In 2005 the Valerie Parv Award became an integral part of the calendar of Romance Writers of Australia, and is described by them as one of Australia’s most prestigious romance writing awards.

The winner of the Valerie Parv Award is mentored by Valerie during their award year and in the last year, four previous winners won or finaled in writing competitions in Australia and New Zealand.