Edge-Lit: mini-convention

This July the QUAD in Derby sees a gathering of science-fiction, fantasy and horror writers for Edge-Lit, a one day event for fans, readers and aspiring writers of the genre. Over thirty authors, agents and speakers are scheduled for a day of workshops, panels, readings and more. The two Guests of Honour for the day are Christopher Fowler and Geoff Ryman. Details here.

Newcon 5: SF convention

Newcon 5 is Northampton's Science Fiction and Fantasy literary convention. The event was established by the Northampton Science Fiction Wiriting group in 2004, from when it's gone from strength to strength and has attracted guests such as Iain M. Banks, Ken Macleod, Paul Cornell, Storm Constantine and many more.

The 2010 convention is scheduled for the weekend 9-10 October -- in Northampton, obviously. The guests of honour are Paul McAuley, Pat Cadigan and Paul Cornell.

Visit the website for registration fees, etc.

Black Static and WHC2011's Short Story Contest

News from WHC2011: Black Static magazine and the World Horror Convention 2011 have previously announced the WHC2011 Short Story Contest. Writers should submit their "most engaging and terrifying short fiction" to the judging panel for the chance to have their story published in the collectible WHC2011 Souvenir Book. The story will appear along work by Sarah Langan, Joe Hill, Steve Niles, Peter Crowther, Joe R. Lansdale, Brian Keene and other top names. In addition, the winning entry will be republished in Black Static and will be paid industry professional standard rate. Full details and rules can be found on the WHC2011 website.

Next year's World Horror Convention takes place in Austen, Texas, from 28 April to 1 May. The guests of honour are Steve Niles, Joe Hill, Sarah Langan, Vincent Chong, Brett Alexander Savory, Sandra Kasturi with toastmaster Joe R Lansdale. The above link will lead you to all the important details -- how to register, etc, etc.

At the Peake

I am thrilled that I can announce another Special Guest for FantasyCon 2009: Sebastian Peake, son of Mervyn, will tell us all about his famous father. Mervyn Peake is, of course, the author of the magnificent Gormenghast trilogy. Pop over to the FantasyCon website for details.

WHC 2010

The second Guest of Honour has now been announced. David Case joins Tanith Lee as GOH. More information to come. In the meantine, visit: World Horror Convention 2010
.