Smut in the City - Manchester

Cowgirls, nuns and smut

I attended another event organised by the team that make up Smut, which was held in the city for the first time - in Manchester (the previous ones have been Smut by the Sea at Scarborough).

And here’s another first - it was the first time I had done a writing workshop! The topic was 'Collaborating with a co-author: the way to make or break a friendship'. We discussed the pros and cons of collaborating, looked at tips and had a speed collaboration session (speed dating with a difference!). The buzz was fabulous, and I think they enjoyed it! Comments included ‘Thought-provoking’, ‘thoroughly enjoyed it’, ‘you’re a born teacher’ (the latter was from a friend so she might be slightly biased!)

I also did another reading - my third! I am getting practiced at it (although not a patch on the terrific reading by Ashley Lister who read some very funny poetry). My reading this time was from ‘The Last Werewolf’ and I read a scene where one of the heroes, who hasn’t told the heroine he is a werewolf, tries to hide his natural wolf instincts as he has sex with her, eg, nuzzling and licking her face, biting her neck, chasing her on all fours…. And so on.

As for the rest of the event, Ashley Lister had us trying to write smutty poetry. He did say something that resonated with me - that with all writing, poetry or otherwise, you need to get the rhythm, sound and pacing right.

Car Sutra demonstrated her fantasy bondage kit and everyone got a chance to try tying others up (which culminated in one poor guy ending up near naked!)

Zak Keir talked about the importance of doing research if we are writing BDSM scenes and brought along various implements for us to try out – I heartily agree with the sentiment and often try it out on myself so I now what the sound of the implement is, how heavy it is, and how it stings.

Lastly, Melinda from Voluptasse had us review various sex toys and one member from each team had to sell or review their item in front of the rest.

So how did cowgirls and nuns come into it?

My lovely friend Bella Settarra dressed up as a cowgirl to read from her latest book (here she is with her very own cowboy!), and Sister Jacqui just dressed up! (Standing in between my newest protege, Marianna Miles, and myself).

One thing I would say is that, although I missed several of the regulars at these events, it was nice to see some new faces.

Looking forward to Smut Luton in March. Thanks to the great Smut team for another great conference!