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Guest Blogger: David Alan Johnson
 Over the ten years I spent in the entertainment industry I've been lucky enough to have many great experiences in some beautiful, and not so beautiful, but fun places! It all began with the RT Convention in San Diego in '93. It seems very fitting and brings me much joy that I find myself back at the beginning, in Pittsburgh for the '08 RT Convention. The warmth and kindness you gave me upon coming back was very special. Seeing people I haven't seen in many years, reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. I think it was Mark Johnson that said, "We're like a family". I really believe that to be true. Out of all the things I've done in the past 15 years however big or small I must thank all you people that attend the conventions and support the genre you love so much. You've helped me learn more about myself by trusting enough to share your dreams, desires, laughter and friendships over this long adventure we call life. I hope I've helped in some small way to inspire, encourage, laugh with or support the many people I've spoken to over these years. I used to believe years ago that I needed a stage, an event or some special means to connect to the masses. Some type of forum to help change peoples lives. Over the years I now realize it's the intimate moments spent listening and sharing that matters the most. We are all connected and I couldn't have the laughter or the joy without your participation. Together we create the moments and the memories. I thank you all, David Alan Johnson Mr. Romance 1993
The Line Between Romance and Science Fiction
  As a teenager, I didn't really read a lot of science-fiction or fantasy. I hated to read books that had so many made up names and words that I would have to reread a sentence twice just to make sense of everything. There were exceptions to this rule - I loved Isaac Asimov, David Brin and Philip Jose Farmer. The Riverworld series was one of the first sci-fi/fantasy series I read multiple times. I still can't hear the word "grail" without picturing elements of Riverworld.  While at the bookstore this past February, I happened to glance over and I saw a new Philip Jose Farmer book called STRANGE RELATIONS. If you are a fan of his, you know that this is actually the name of a previously released short story. That short story is included in this volume, along with Flesh and The Lovers. So far, I have read The Lovers and Flesh. These are two very erotic, romantic and creepy sci-fi stories. Apparently when The Lovers was first released in the 1960s, this story pushed the envelope on what was sexually appropriate. The Lovers tells the tale of Hal Yarrow, a linguist from Earth a thousand years from now. All the worries we have now - scarce resources, overpopulation, world wars and increasing violations of privacy - have created the world Hal lives in. He volunteers for a mission to a far off planet that might be a candidate for colonization. The rest of the spaceship plans to kill off all the inhabitants and then come back and settle in. But Hal falls in love with a descendent from some of the original settlers. He keeps her secret, risks his life for her, and in return, he learns about love and sexual pleasure. While not graphic in its descriptions, it is still a very beautiful and erotic tale of love and sexual awakening. The fact that the male is the one with the awakening makes it that much more interesting. The twist at the end does not make it any less romantic, but does up the creepy factor a bit. The second story, Flesh, is a bit harder to explain. Due to a lack of resources and other calamities, Earth has returned to a simpler way of life - little in the way of electrical technology, wood is used sparingly and the family unit is of primary importance. When Peter Stagg returns from a space expedition that started 800 years before, Earthpeople mistake him for their Sungod, and force him into a sexual slavery that is both wonderful and horrible for him. Farmer does such a wonderful job of combining the scientific elements of his fiction with a cautionary philosophy that resonates all the more because it was written 40 years ago. The love stories he incorporates don't feel like they are forced in, but are a natural progression of the thoughts and emotions of the characters. I was thrilled to find more stories by Farmer to explore and I highly recommend them to those fans of futuristic romances. If you like Susan Kearney or Linnea Sinclair, you might like STRANGE RELATIONS, too. Nicole
Guest Blogger: Sharon Sala
Nicole: Tell us about your favorite reader moment from this year's convention. Sharon: It's hard to pick a true favorite because my readers are like family to me. I share a very personal part of myself with people who read my stories, so I would have a hard time choosing one reader's comment over another's. However, I had a bookseller tell me something during the convention that made a tremendous impact on me. She told me that she'd been reading me since the very first book and had never ever been disappointed in anything with my name on it. That is a high compliment which I cherish. She added that, one reason she thought that was true was because I didn't keep writing the same stories. She said she felt that my skill in storytelling grew with each book I wrote, and that I wasn't afraid to change directions, even though I had reached a certain level of success with what I was already doing. She said, and I do agree with this, that to change is to grow, and the ability to grow with the genre is what keeps people in this business. Nicole: What panels and events did you take part in? Sharon: I was on a panel with Lori Wilde, Lori Foster, Ann Christopher and Christie Craig called CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE - Finding Fantasy In An Ordinary World. It was a great discussion on the "hooks" each of us use to create our stories. It's always interesting to me, and hopefully eye-opening to beginning writers, to find out that there is no "one" way to tell a story and that everyone has their own strengths to bring to it. We had great response and good questions from the audience members. Hopefully there were some hints we gave that will turn out to be helpful to each of them as they follow their own paths to being published. Nicole: Who were you looking forward to seeing most while there? Sharon: As always, it was to reconnect with the readers and booksellers, although this year was particularly special to me. I was notified that I'd won a Reviewer's Choice Award for the Best Paranormal Romantic Suspense for my book THE SURVIVORS. That book was particularly special to me because I was in the midst of writing it when Bobby, who was the love of my life and my childhood sweetheart, was diagnosed and then died from liver cancer. He died in our home, in my arms, and I wanted to die with him. The months preceding and then following his death were absolute agony for me. I couldn't think, let alone write. My publisher, Harlequin, and my editors, Leslie Wainger and Dianne Moggy, were wonderful. They gave me all the time I needed to turn the book in, even though that meant they had to pull it from their schedule and release it an entire year later. Even then, when I finally finished it months later, it was, like me, a mess. Leslie Wainger was the one who led me through the revisions and editing. Finally it became the story I'd meant it to be all along. I dedicated it to Bobby, too, so having it win in that category was bittersweet. Nicole: Do you have a favorite Mr. Romance competitor? Sharon: I have to say that John De Salvo would probably be my choice if I had to name one, but that's because he's been on so many of my earlier covers. He did a lot of the covers for my stories when I was still writing for Harper/Collins, which is now under the Avon imprint. And, those books have been some of my readers' favorites. The biggest would probably be a book I wrote called JACKSON RULE, but he was also on DREAMCATCHER, DEEP IN THE HEART, and several others. His work was outstanding on all of them, so I guess he wins my vote. Nicole: What are your upcoming projects? Sharon: My upcoming projects... hmmm... well, I have a book coming out in November of this year called BAD PENNY, which will be the last book in my female bounty hunter trilogy. That character, Cat Dupree, and her fellow bounty hunter, Wilson McKay, have turned out to be huge reader favorites, as they have mine. I also have an anthology with Janis Reams Hudson and Debra Cowan in the Silhouette Nocturne line that will be out in October. There's been some discussion regarding the title... ours got changed... but last I heard, I think the powers that be are calling it LIFE AFTER LIFE. And, I'm working on a book right now called THE WARRIOR, which will be a paranormal romantic suspense in the same vein as my most recent release, THE HEALER. Nicole: Will you be attending the 2009 RT Convention in Orlando? Nicole: I would like to say yes, but right now I don't plan that far ahead. My 88 year old Mother lives with me. She has no short term memory and some health issues that we deal with on a regular basis. Even though she can't remember to take her pills, or eat a meal (that's what I'm for) we still have a ball. We're together now just as we were when I was born - under one roof - one caring for the other. Only this time it's my turn to take care of her. She might not remember anything much, but she sure knows when it's getting close to the day for her beauty shop appointment and our "lunch date" afterward. That's the mark of a real woman. We might forget a lot of things, but we do remember when it's time to get our hair done and to go out to eat a meal someone else has fixed. I do want to take this opportunity to tell everyone who took the time to stop and talk to me how much I enjoyed seeing you again. I'd been looking forward to coming for months because of the 25th anniversary of the Romantic Times convention. I have so much respect for Kathryn Falk and Carol Stacy. It was amazing to look back over the years and see how both the magazine and the convention has grown. I'm really glad I got to be a part of it. Sharon Sala http://romanceauthorspage.com/sharonsala
RT BOOKreviews June 08 Issue
An RT Exclusive Prequel Story by Brenda Novak
After years of entertaining readers with her tales of small-town life, author Brenda Novak is tackling life and love in the city of Sacramento in her new trilogy, The Last Stand, which launches this month with TRUST ME (Mira). The trilogy follows three women who run a victims' charity after having been victims of crime themselves. To give readers an inside peek at how the Last Stand charity began, Novak created a prequel story that RT is proud to present. Read Chapters 1 - 4 in June 08 issue of RT BOOKreviews and download the conclusion of the Last Stand prequel here.
American Title V
From RT E-mail Newsletter: "You may have noticed that we announced in the June issue that the American Title contest would be ending. However, due to popular demand, we talked Dorchester into sponsoring the contest for another year so the AMERICAN TITLE COMPETITION WILL CONTINUE. Dorchester is currently accepting submissions so polish your manuscripts. To enter, send the first three chapters (no more than 50 pages), a two- to seven-page synopsis and a cover letter (aka query letter) to American Title Contest, Dorchester Publishing, 200 Madison Ave., Suite 2000, N.Y., NY 10016. ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY JUNE 15, 2008. For American Title V anything goes: historical, paranormal, time-travel, futuristic, romantic suspense, romantic urban fantasy. The only thing we're *not* looking for are straight contemporaries, young adult or women's fiction. Your manuscript must be completed prior to entering and run between 80,000-90,000 words. Finalists must agree to participate in each of the five competition rounds and must submit copy for ALL five categories by August 15, 2008. The winner will receive a publishing contract with Dorchester." ***************** AMERICAN TITLE FAQ ANSWERED BY DORCHESTERWhat does "unpublished" mean?Any author whose work has not been printed as a book may enter the contest. For example: • If you have been e-published, you're eligible. • If you have had short stories or anything under 30,000 words appear in a magazine or anthology, you would still be eligible. • If you wrote a 45,000-word story that was published in print as a stand-alone book, you are not eligible for this contest. What formatting should I use?Dorchester does not have any formatting requirements other than that pages are typed, double-spaced, legible and unbound. How long should the first three chapters be?We request that the first three chapters not exceed 50 pages. If your book starts with a Prologue, please include that and then the first two chapters. How do you calculate your word count?If the manuscript is written in a standard font, our word count requirement generally means it will run about 340-400 pages. Your computer can help give you a rough estimate of what constitutes 80,000-90,000 words, but we won't be tallying them up exactly when the entries come in. May I enter more than one title?No. Before we have allowed multiple entries, but since you can only final for one, we now request that you send only one submission.
Guest Blogger: Jade Lee
Who are the COOLEST PEOPLE? By Jade Lee Answer: YOU!!!!! Have you ever met someone who was just so cool that you wanted to sit and talk with them for hours? I did. I have. Just about everyone at the RT convention! I know, I know, everyone says this, but let me explain how amazing everyone there was by giving a few examples. (Oh, btw, I’m Jade Lee (author) and I’m an RT Convention JUNKIE!) Morgan is a romance reader. Her husband is the delightful Jemal who carried his wife’s bags of books and went to every party without complaint. It was their first RT convention. When Morgan met Thea Divine, her knees went out and she couldn’t speak because she was shaking so badly. She loves Thea’s writing, and so they sat together on a couch and talked for a while. Morgan had similar reactions with other authors including Bertrice Small and Cheryl Holt, but by the end of the convention, she had found her confidence, embraced the insanity of RT, and dragged me over to force Adrian Paul to say hello to me. (He was WONDERFUL, btw). Kris is a bookseller from Australia. She had pictures with her of the books that were destroyed when her store was flooded. The images made me cry. Imagine the largest dumpster you can and see it overflowing with water-logged books. Whenever I ran into her, we laughed about the free books she’d gotten (I never saw her with less than an overflowing bag) and she teased me about how I was stalking her. We talked about what was selling in her store, how things are different in Australia than in the US, and how she didn’t know how she was going to get all her free stuff back to her native country. I met Helen in airport security of all places. She’s a librarian at West End Branch Library in Boston. She made me laugh about budgets (or lack thereof!) and talked about opportunities for authors to speak at her library. She attended the bookseller/librarian functions and had to ship a box home! Then there was Cheryl Holt who made the New York Times list during the convention. We screamed and jumped up and down. (And btw, we’d just met). She invited me to a party in Kathryn’s suite to celebrate. And yes, Kris and Morgan were there too! Then there were the industry professionals—the editors, agents, publicists, and VPs. Suffice it to say that any one of them could have absorbed my attention for hours just because they each had their own understanding of our amazing industry. The workshops they gave were eye opening, to say the least. Even the cover models had their own opinions, and it was fun to look at them while they talked! My job in this blog is to give the convention wrap up, but that’s like asking someone to summarize the World Fair in a couple paragraphs. The bookfair was overwhelming with hundreds of authors and fans wandering around (sometimes in the dark because the lights went out!) giggling and laughing (and yes, gushing!) over something they loved. The Cover Model contest was hysterically fun, Adrian Paul is…well, he’s just amazingly friendly and kind. I hope we raised a ton for his charity. And then, of course, was the Boots Dance (short for These Boots were made for Stomping or Strutting ball hosted by Dorchester Books). Prizes and giveaways were more than just books (about a 1000 were available for free). They also gave away a dozen pairs of boots, plus prizes like an espresso machine and a $100 gift certificate! But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Truly, this convention has a lot of glitz and glamour, big laughs, and great eye candy, but it’s really about meeting those people sitting right next to you. It’s about sharing a love of reading with someone who understands. And guess what? I get to do it all over again next year in Orlando! Woo hoo! Please say you’ll meet me there next year! We’ll get a latte and talk books! Jade Lee www.jadeleeauthor.comUSA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR RITA FINALIST for TEMPTED TIGRESSTHESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR STOMPING, April 08 DRAGONBORN, March 2008 THE TAO OF SEX, Blaze Jan 2008
RT Convention Video Blog: Day 4
Wow, What a Convention!
Finally home, with reliable Internet, and lots and lots of things to report. Saturday was quite a day! For me, it started with the Book Fair. I had not intended to buy anything there, with the possible exception of one or two books I already had on my wish list. As with many of my good intentions, that went out the window. I ran around the ballroom for hours, picking up books and talking with authors. My roommate also won a gift basket, so we were hauling a lot of nifty things around for a few hours - I know I lost a few pounds just from the running around! So what did I get? THE BECOMING, BLOOD DRIVE and THE WATCHER by Jeanne Stein WITCH FIRE and WITCH BLOOD by Anya Bast THE DEVIL INSIDE by Jenna Black THE HAUNTED AIR by F. Paul Wilson ZANDIA by Tilly Greene HELLS BELLES and THE ROAD TO HELL by Jackie Kessler ETERNAL LOVER, an anthoogy with stories from Hannah Howell, Lynsay Sands, Jackie Kessler and Richelle Mead and SLIGHTLY MARRIED by Wendy Markham After the book fair, I bought some beautiful jewelry from Jane Elissa Atelier from Creative Art Designs. She's a sweet lady and had lots of interesting items. In fact, I ended up buying from her twice! Later, was the Mr. Romance competition. By now, I am sure most of you know that Chris Winters is the 2008 winner. I admit, seeing him onstage as he interacted with the female models, even from the back row I got shivers. All of the men were wonderful (I will write more on them later) and congrats to Chris! Immediately following that was the Cover Model Reunion dinner. Besides Fabio and Adrian Paul (both of whom looked wonderful and spoke very articulately about their lives and their charities), we also had several models from past RT competitions. David Alan Johnson, John DeSalvo, Mark Johnson (who had the audience in stitches several times) and CJ Hollenbach were all there. I got to sit with last year's winner again, Jason Santiago and one of this year's competitors, Christopher Howell, as well as Bobbi Smith and Carol Stacy. It was a wonderful experience. After that was the Boots party. I wore my 4-inch high, knee length boots and danced the night away, after taking home a few books from the looooong table of give away books. Saturday was full of adventure, with a few mishaps (the lights went out for a few minutes at the Book Fair!), but overall, it was an experience I will never forget. Sunday was supposed to be more relaxing, but somehow I ended up running around a bunch again. Breakfast with Pat Simmons and Naomi Giroux of Ijustfinished.com. Eating with these ladies was a treat! Next, the Samhain Sayonara party. Lots of giveaways, neat red fleece blankets and the chance to say good bye to all my friends. Then I ended up flitting here and there throughout the hotel, saying goodbye to friends, gathering up random bits of flotsam (I ended up with a large bag full of goodies to bring back home), shipping two LARGE boxes of books home, and having lunch with many of the RT staff and volunteers (thanks for the ice wine toast!). And the capper, the Romance at Twilight party, where we watched Dirty Dancing and Practical Magic while munching on goodies, lounging on pillows and couches and drawing for even more give aways. Charlotte Featherstone and Amanda McIntyre were excellent hostesses, of course. As I was packing up in my room, I got a call from the documentary film crew asking if I wanted to see some of the footage they shot. I have to tell you, I can't wait to see the finished product. They got some wonderful interviews and I know the film will be great! There's still more to come... Jade Lee and Sharon Sala will have posts coming up. I still have the interview with Anne Elizabeth to post. David Alan Johnson will also be contributing to the blog. If you attended the convention, post in the comments about your favorite moments at RT. If you weren't able to come, we hope you will be able to join us in Orlando next year. Nicole
Guest Blogger: Heather Graham
 Saturday . . . Someone mentioned the library to me today, and I went blank. It was just about my first event when I arrived, and it already seemed as if it had happened eons ago. Pittsburgh has been wonderful, nonstop - I'm trying to remember events in order. Thriller writer friends have attended this year, and it's been super to kind of inter-mingle groups. They've had a great time and been somewhat overwhelmed! Party, party, party. And workshops, great workshops. Events, speaking, rehearsing. Okay, so last night, we finally get to the vampire party, and the sound gave. Joking, we thought it would be funny, next year, to do the show as an old silent movie, in black and white -- with captions! No sound difficulties that way! But we had some pretty visual stuff going. Lance -- you'll just have to see the pictures! Harley and Alex, gorgeous as usual, in a different way. Paul Wilson -- who would have suspected he could be such an actor! Helen stunning as the evil queen, Ali a little red riding hood you wouldn't expect! Dave Wilson from Thriller Writers made a great monster -- he's six feet five inches, so hey, made for the part! Debbie Richardson, Connie Perry, and my kids were all involved, so . . . stay tuned for pictures, lots of fun, even in silence. Oh, well. We live and learn! This morning, Harley Jane Kozak, Dave, Connie, Lance, my daughter, Chynna, and I headed with a little skit to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. I was grateful to be there -- set up by CJ Lyons. There is nothing like performing for children, and nothing like seeing what little ones suffer to put any little problem in life in perspective. Harley is amazing. When she performs, I know why she was always such a good actress. When she speaks, her sense of humor, her grace, charm, poise and humility let me see why she writes such clever, funny, and intriguing novels! So, TV station, library, workshops, Golden Era party, workshops, rehearsals, Fairy Ball, Christine Feehan's wonderful 20's party, TV station again -- freezing, but hey, we suffer for our art, eh? More rehearsals, tech challenges and minor disasters, and amazing costume changes, the medieval skit for the kids, the bookfair. No one puts on a bookfair that can compare. Oh, I forgot the tribute to 25 years. 25 years--since my first book, and for RT. Scary and great. I do mean great. I'm looking forward to the next 25 years. Next year, we'll be back in my home state. Florida. Orlando. Easy for me, great. I love Orlando. Hey, y'all come down and see us. I know the hotel, it's beautiful. And you need extra days -- you don't get out much at an RT! Give me a few weeks, and then, please, check in at heathergraham.tv, eheathergraham, and theoriginalheathergraham.com. You've got to see a few of the costumes we've had going . . . . And I sure hope to get to see you next year. Oh, wait, still tonight to go. Still tomorrow morning. Hey, I never knew quite how my life would change when I met Kathryn Falk 25 years ago! Heather Graham
Guest Blogger: Angela Knight
 I love RT Convention! You never know who you’ll meet. For example, right now I’m sitting next to Heather Graham typing this blog! Insert fangirl squee here… I also won a Career Achievement Award Friday, which totally stunned me. I have been a devoted reader of RT since the 1980s, when I used to sit in the food court of the mall and devour the latest reviews, looking to see which books were scheduled to come out. So to be honored by RT after so many years of being a fan – well, it’s a dream come true. I am just as fond of the convention itself. My husband and I have attended several RT conventions, and we always have a ball. It’s just such fun meeting the fans and booksellers, who are always so kind to me. I love talking to them and signing books - it’s the most enormous rush you can imagine. Being a promotion ‘ho, I seized the opportunity to tell everybody about my new series, TIME HUNTERS: WARRIOR, coming in July from Berkley. Genetically engineered studs leaping through time solving crimes. I’m hoping people will enjoy it. And then there’s the costume balls. I always get a huge kick out of seeing what creative, clever costumes people put together. Tawny Taylor, for example, wore this glorious nineteenth century gown to the faery ball with seashells worked into her hair. She’s so gorgeous – I could hate her if she wasn’t so nice. I also participated in three panels and moderated a fourth. J.R. Ward and her crit partner Jessica Andersen were on one of them with me, which was huge fun. I adore J.R.’s Brotherhood of the Black Dagger series. We also ran into one of the cover models who was a dead ringer for one of the Brothers. He was 6’4 or so with shoulders four feet wide. I gaped at him shamelessly. Oh, and I made Barry Eisler blush during the erotica panel opining on the subject of my favorite dirty words to use in love scenes. That was fun. He was such a good sport about it – not to mention so darned cute – that I had to buy his book during the book fair. I can’t wait to read it. I have a feeling it’s going to be really good. I understand next year’s event is going to be in Orlando. I can’t wait! See you then! Angela Knight www.angelasknights.com
Guest Blogger: Bobbi Smith
 Hi! Wow! Here we are on day 6 of our excitement in PA! RT rules! The Advanced Writers’ Track went great! There is soooo much talent out there! I can’t wait to see if any of the aspiring writers sell so I can stand in line to buy their books! It’s been a wonderful time! Everyone is so friendly. This conference is all about love. The love of books, the love of writing and the love of romance. The autograph party was busy! The crowd was friendly and bought a lot of books! That means everything to the authors. I was honored to be included in the pioneers of romance salute. Maybe that’s why I write so many westerns, ‘cause I’m a real "pioneer". It was a blast to see Janelle, Bertrice, Thea and everybody else! We haven’t aged a day! The hunk contest tonight should be fun. The guys are all gentlemen and I wish them the best of luck. I’m not sure what cover the winner will be on, but they’d all be good! There are all kinds of filming crews here, so maybe we’ll all end up with movies being made of our books! That would be cool. I’m looking forward to the Cover Model Reunion Dinner tonight. That will definitely be fun. David Johnson was the first winner and he was on the cover of my book HEAVEN that came out back in the 90s. I was honored to get to meet him and to go on tour with him. He’s definitely a hero! My next book out from Leisure is WANTED! THE HALFBREED is coming out in June. My oldies are being re-released again. I’ll have RAPTURE'S TEMPEST back out in November and CAPTURE MY HEART in October. Thanks for all your support and hope you enjoyed the blog! Bobbi Smith
RT Convention Video Blog: Day 3
It's Been a Ball
Tonight was Heather Graham's Vampire Ball and I got to have dinner with Jason Santiago. I was at a table with some documentary filmmakers, Circle of Seven Production and, of course, Mr. Santiago. Few men can pull off the suit and shirt combo he wears, but he does it well and with panache. And who knew F. Paul Wilson could do a decent rendition of "Hotel California" by the Eagles? I went to the R&R Soiree hosted by Renee Bernard and Robin Schone (in absentia). There was champagne, port, dark chocolate and chocolate-covered strawberries, which were divine. They also gave away a necklace based on the one in one of Ms. Bernard's books. Meeting people has been a blast. I have lots of links and stories to share, once I have let my brain settle down from all of the input of the last several hours. Tomorrow is going to be so exciting! Book Fair! Fabio! Mr. Romance! Boots! Tune in tomorrow for more exciting happening here at the 25th Romantic Times Booklovers Convention! Nicole
Quick check-in
Not a lot of access to the Internet, so I am taking advantage while I can. I got to attend a panel this morning - Demons Are the New Black. Many of the players for the paranormal world where there. Kim Harrison, Richelle Mead (a fabulous moderator), Caitlyn Kittridge, and more. It was a blast and I got to learn quite a bit. Also got to play in Club RT, meeting publishers and vendors. Now, I am getting ready to attend the R&R Soiree and then later, Heather Graham's party. Keep your fingers crossed for access tomorrow. Blog posts for Angela Knight, Bobbi Smith, Robin Owens and Heather Graham should go up. And a bit of a look at the Cover Models, too. I took some hot pictures, just to whet my appetite for the Mr. Romance Competition tomorrow and the Cover Model Reunion Dinner. See you tomorrow! Nicole
Guest Blogger: Barry Eisler
 Hi, Barry Eisler here, blogging from my first Romantic Times. Please forgive any spelling errors; I was up late at the Fairy Ball (hmmm, don't think I've ever uttered that particular sentence before) and even later at the poker tournament... If you know my books -- a thriller series about a half-Japanese, half-American assassin named John Rain whose speciality is making it look like natural causes -- you might wonder what I'm doing at RT. Well, it's like this: my thrillers have a lot of romance and sex in them, and women seem to like them a lot, even though my publisher packages them more for men. So I started looking for ways to meet more female readers, and a friend told me RT would be a good place for that... and holy smokes, was my friend right. Today's my third day at the convention, and here are my impressions so far: first, what an incredibly engaging, enthusiastic, eclectic group of readers! Everyone's been exceptionally friendly and approachable, and even as a first-timer (a virgin, in RT parlance) I've felt welcome from go. Second, these people read a lot of books! I wonder if anyone's done a study about the number of books romance readers read per year versus the number read by readers in other genres? Something tells me romance readers do it more (sorry, I couldn't resist). Third, romance readers read a lot more than romance. When I first decided to come to RT, I thought my books would be a good fit because of their strong female characters and romantic plot lines. Thrillers with romance... as a category, not so far from Romantic Suspense, right? But in fact, most of the readers I've met at RT read romance as a kind of core interest, with lots of other genres and story types forming concentric circles around the core. In other words, you don't have to write romance: if you write great stories with compelling characters, you'll make plenty of new friends at RT. If we didn't have a chance to meet at the convention, stop by my web site discussion board -- a fun forum with a lot of interesting people talking about reading, writing, sex, politics, single malt whisky, and anything else that strikes people's fancy -- and say hello. Or shoot me an add request on MySpace or Facebook. And if we have met, come by so we can stay in touch. Okay, signing off now, hopefully to take a nap. I need to rest up for tonight's Vampire Ball (another sentence I don't think I've ever uttered before) and for tomorrow's big book signing. Thanks for making me feel so welcome and see you in Orlando! Cheers, Barry www.barryeisler.com www.myspace.com/barryeisler http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=561186047
RT Convention Video Blog: Day 2
I Never Think of It as Work
That is the sentiment of Marjorie Liu, who is as beautiful as she is talented. I got the wonderful opportunity to interview Ms. Liu this morning. She is sweet and charming and so much fun to talk to! Nicole: Is this your first RT? Marjorie: No. The first one I went to was St. Louis, so I have lost track, so, there was St. Louis, Daytona and last year. I always have so much fun. Everyday is something different. I would say, when I first went RT, I was totally unprepared for Ellora’s Cave’s party, I was totally unprepared. It was completely fun. And now it’s old hat. Nicole: What do you look forward to the most when you come? Marjorie: Oh, seeing everyone. I don’t see people most of the year, because I am locked up [at home] and so when I come here it’s so much just seeing everyone I know and meeting people, especially seeing the readers. It’s such a reader convention. [Other conventions] are nice, but it’s as reader oriented as this one is. And it’s a lot of fun, it really, really is. Nicole: Tell me about your current and upcoming projects. Marjorie: Okay, current projects… something that will be announced this weekend at Comic Con is that I am relaunching a comic series for Marvel. And that is six issues coming out in August. Which I am really excited about. I have seen some of the art, and written some of the scripts, so I was thrilled. And then, plus, in July, I have two books coming out. One’s an anthology called HOTTER THAN HELL, and then the second one is the first book of my new urban fantasy series called THE IRON HUNT. It’s about a woman with living tattoos that peel off her body when the sun goes down, and they create their own army and fight bad things. It was really interesting write and I really loved the character, Maxine Kiss. And the third book coming out is THE WILD ROAD, is the 8th in the Dirk and Steele series and it’s kind of the unofficial sequel to A D…. it’s another Gargoyle book, it’s one of the Gargoyle brothers and it’s kinda like a thriller/road trip/magical… I don’t even know how to describe it. It takes place in the Midwest, starts in Chicago and moves down into Indiana. It’s also an unofficial sequel to the Dirk and Steele prequel story that was published in MY BIG FAT SUPERNATURAL HONEYMOON. And next year, there will be some more anthologies, another Hunter’s Kiss book, more Dirk and Steele and more comic books. I am busy, things are busy. I don’t know how I do it. I think I need to slow down!
Nicole: Is there anyone you are looking forward to meeting this time? Marjorie: I look forward to meeting everyone. I have to say, meeting you… I have friends I only see once a year. And you are bumping along, and you meet people, and it’s just a lot of fun. There isn’t one person in particular, it’s just kinda this wonderful circus/circus/circus… it just goes on and on and on. I don’t rest when I am here.
Ready for More
First, I must say that S.J. Willing is the sweetest man EVER! He KNOWS his RT audience. The man came prepared with gifts such as adorable stuffed animals, cool notebooks and more. I was very excited to win a copy of POSEIDON VII and have it signed by him. I attended the bookseller party Afternoon Delight, where there were lovely ladies and wonderful giveaways. Hosted by Anne Elizabeth, Angela Knight, Jade Lee, R. Garland Gray, Kathy Love, Erin McCarthy, Shiloh Walker, Diane Whiteside and an absentee Christina Skye, there were cakes decorated like bookcovers, good food and drink and roses, roses and peacock feathers! I am getting ready for the Faery Ball shortly, and planning to wear my hand-painted silk scarves with fairies on them. FINALLY, the ultimate excuse to wear them! And after the Ball, it's time to get down and dirty - I am attending the Afterhours Speakeasy with Christine Feehan. I haven't played Texas Hold 'Em at a table in years and I will be competing with 24 other lovely ladies for gift baskets. Wish me luck remembering when it's time to be the big blind and what the Turn means! More goodies, prizes and author interviews coming soon! Tomorrow is Barry Eisler, Robin D. Owens and Brenda Jackson - and whomever else I can tie to a chair and make talk to me! Nicole
Guest Blogger: LA Banks
 Whoooo Hooo! Being at RT is one of those annual experiences you don't want to miss. It's like a huge family reunion, or at the very least, like a fun high school reunion on steroids. As an author, this is where you meet the fabulous people who show you some love--those readers whom we all bow to, because were it not for their love of books and their fav characters, we wouldn't get to do what we do (much love!) So, this year in Pittsburgh is no different. At this 25th Anniversary bash, I have seen friends from across the country--stopping in the halls and screaming, "Girl, how the hell are ya?!" Actually, that’s one of the highlights for me, just cruising the halls, seeing who came, catching up, bumping into folks, and generally laughing all week. We do paaartaaay here, be clear: this is a "don't wanna miss" event! Yesterday, I sat on a panel with crazy MaryJanice Davidson and Dakota Cassidy, along with Monique Patterson (St. Martin's Press, Senior Editor), and authors Cheyenne McCray, Kelley Armstrong -- can I tell you the twosome first mentioned cut up so badly that my face literally hurt from laughing. MaryJanice got started, which just became irreverent contagion that spread to the audience, and there was no such thing as control. We'd lost it. The conversation went wild, albeit managed to somehow stay on topic--go figure? Yeah, we were a disruptive bunch. Probably has something to do with those who write paranormal. But before that particular panel devolved into sheer mayhem, the vampire crew hooked up and paneled together--Caridad Pineiro, Kim Harrison, and Rosemary Laurey, moderated by Jeanne Stein. Good people, good fun, everyone came out of the room buzzing about the discussion. I think that's when you can tell if things went well... folks keep walking and talking about what went on and carrying the conversation out into the next session. But, alas, my age and fitness level told on me. Last night I went up to my room, called my daughter to be sure that my 17-year-old hadn't completely lost her mind in my absence and to be sure all my parental "look outs" had scouted no sign of a party taking place in my home -- and then was so exhausted from coming off deadline (maybe it was relief that no young men had crossed my threshold or there was no teen party taking place), that I passed out. My intentions were good. I was going to get up in an hour and go down to the Ellora's Cave Ball. Instead I woke up to the Eleven O'Clock News going off! OMG! It is a sign of age when you have to take a nap and set an alarm clock to get up for a party. (Shaking my head.) But tonight I will be ready, I will not lie down, I will never surrender. I will be at the Faery ball, dammit! Plus, I must make it to the Vampire Ball--what self respecting writer of vampire slaying could miss that? However, I am going to blame my stamina issues on the adrenaline rushes that we mothers get from our kids while on the road... you know, the phone calls filled with mystery and hysteria, the strident voice that shouts, "OMG, Mom, call me!" So you, as a responsible Mom, break away from the session, call your child, where you are informed that your child hates her English teacher. Okay. That call just took 3 years off my life, but I'm cool, LOL. Then you go back to your panels and other events, constantly double-checking your cell phone... not being a diva, being a frazzled mother (I wish I had Wall Street or Hollywood-level calls incoming that required my immediate attention, LOL... nah, just a Mom having teenage angst moments.) Nice thing, though, I did get a call that my boo made FIRST HONORS. Big Grin. So, as they say, it's all good. Now, back to panels, gonna go kick up my heels and laugh some more. Hiding from my homegirl, Pat Simmons, LOL... love her--she's hunting me down to make sure I show up on time for interviews... but how is that possible when you bump into so many friends enroute to everywhere? Thank you, RT, for having this for us all! Big shout out to Liddy Midnight (my co-wife--that's a loooong story, LOL), Cindy, Rene, Michelle, Kimberly... I shouldn't have started, the list is too long and I'm gonna get in trouble for forgetting somebody. Oh, yeah, and I'm trying to avoid Mona at Frozen Light--her jewelry creates addictions and takes advance checks! Every conference, I leave with something I swore I wasn't gonna buy; forget willpower :) LA Banks
Guest Blogger: Caridad Pineiro
 Another year at RT and it’s great to be around old friends and make new ones in Pittsburgh! It’s always interesting to talk to everyone about what’s happening in their lives, how their bookstores are doing or what’s new with their latest novel. I guess that’s the thing I love most about RT - that even though there are published authors, pre-published authors, readers or booksellers, we all have one big thing in common – WE LOVE BOOKS! In particular, we all love romance! So for the last two days, I’ve been catching up on what’s new with everyone and sharing my good news with them. What news? Well, MORE THAN A MISSION came out as a way cool Manga book in Japan recently. THE CALLING vampire series will be continuing in late Spring 2009 from Silhouette Nocturne and wait . . . Totally exciting for me is another Silhouette Romantic Suspense – A COWBOY’S SECRET CHILD in December ’08 -- and a new sale to Grand Central Publishing for the start of a paranormal romantic suspense series that will be published in 2010. TAINTED BLOOD is about a cancer victim who undergoes radical gene therapy and finds herself gaining inhuman powers and accused of a murder she didn’t commit. Did I mention that the bounty hunter sent to find her is totally hot and doesn’t know how to deal with a woman who might be able to kick his butt? I think I might have even found the perfect model for that bounty hunter – Big John Fish who is one of the cover models shooting for the title of Mr. Romance. Big John – and yes, he is an incredibly tall and well-built man – is about as handsome as they come and has great dimples when he smiles! If you check out my blog at www.caridad.com next week, I’ll have some pictures of him dancing with me as well as some awesome eharlequin.com mouse pads to give out as prizes for visitors. The mouse pad is quite eye-catching and you may want to Super Glue it to your desk so it doesn’t disappear. When I’m not busy tripping the light fantastic on the dance floor, I’ve been doing some great workshops. I’ve had the opportunity to meet LA Banks, Kim Harrison, Michele Bardsley, Mary Janice Davidson, Rosemary Laurey and Heather Graham. We’ve been doing a series of workshops about the state of the vampire romance genre and it’s been exciting to hear that we all believe that there’s still a lot of life in our undead friends. After the panels, it’s time to hang out and head to one of the great costume theme parties that RT puts on for the many attendees. The first night there was a glam Hollywood party hosted by Ellora’s Cave (where I danced with Big John). Tonight there’s a Faery Ball, followed tomorrow by the Undersea Ball. Of course, my favorite one is Heather Graham’s Vampire ball, duh! I just love vamps of any kind and it’s great to see people get into the immortal spirit of things. What do I wear to the costume parties? I must confess to being a lurker since I’m really kind of shy and can’t muster the courage to dress up. Maybe next year! If you haven’t been to the RT Convention, I hope you’ll come join all us romance book lovers next year in Orlando. Come talk, party and pick up all the free books and other goodies available. If you want to come visit with me before then, just drop on by at either www.caridad.com or www.thecallingvampirenovels.com and send me an e-mail. I love hearing from you guys! Caridad
Guest Blogger: Lori Avocato
 Well, I'm at another RT Convention. This is so exciting! I just love RT because of all the fans that attend. It's so much more fun than some conventions I attend! I'm a bit jet-lagged, though, as I just arrived home from England and Scotland a few days ago. That, my dears, was a fantastic, magical trip. I even saw a fairy! Really! Now I'm even more excited to attend the Fairy Ball here. She might have flown over from England to join the madcap fun of RT! If you've read my books, you'd know that the sleazy boss in all of them is named Fabio Scarpello. Well, I got an email while I was in England from a real Fabio Scarpello! LOL He lives in Bali, Indonesia! He thought it quite hysterical that his name was used and says his employees now call him "Sleazy!" I'm thrilled that they read my series in Indonesia! My character Pauline is a burned out nurse who becomes a medical insurance fraud investigator. There's a genuine hunk in the books too. Jagger. Yum. Not unlike the cover models lighting up the hallways of RT! My books are humorous, mystery and romance so I've taken the humor over to my blog: www.loriavocato.com/blog I write daily LTBs (Lori Tid Bits) so stop by if you need a chuckle. Oh, I also have some pics of my trip. I'm already looking forward to RT next year cause it's in Florida! I get to leave New England for the warm, sunny weather, the fabulous fans and the Jagger-like male models. What fun to look forward to! Well, my dears, I must scurry off now as I don't want to miss a second of the RT convention. There's way too much going on! Feel free to pop over to my website, www.loriavocato.com Lori
Whew! Need a nap!
 ( Marjorie M. Liu and Anne Elizabeth ) I have been running around this hotel like a madwoman. I had breakfast this morning and got to see the wonderful Brenda Jackson at the next table. Kim Harrison and the Guy in the Leather Jacket were at the buffet. That moment of peace went by fast, because then it was on my way to other things. Like, a quick stop into Club RT. I got to visit a few of the tables, like the Lotus Circle and Resplendence Publishing. I plan to go back again later to see what else is there. I had to leave quick, tho, so I could meet up with Lori Avocato, who just got back from a trip through England and Scotland. Her blog post will be going up soon. After meeting with her, I had to hotfoot it back downstairs to meet the beautiful Marjorie Liu. Her interview has lots of interesting news and will be going up this afternoon. While talking with Ms. Liu, I also got to meet with Anne Elizabeth. Anyone who has attended RT in the last few years remembers Ms. Elizabeth, because she is EVERYWHERE! She also has a new book coming out soon and I talked with her awhile. Now, I am sitting with historical/paranormal Bonnie Vanak and in a few hours, her post will be up. So sit back and stay tuned, there's a lot more coming your way! The luncheon starts in a few minutes and there will be posts from LA Banks and Caridad Pinero later today. Nicole
RT Convention Video Blog: Day 1
Interview with Kim Harrison
 Or, OMG I just met my favorite author! Yesterday, I got to meet with Kim Harrison (and the Guy in the Leather Jacket). The following is an interview with Ms. Harrison about RT and her upcoming projects. Nicole: Is this your first RT? Kim: Is this my first RT? No, I believe this is my third. Well, let’s see. EVERY WHICH WAY BUT DEAD had just come out, so that’s been about 2 years. So it was the one in Daytona (2 years ago). Nicole: What are you looking forward to for this RT? Kim: For this RT, mostly meeting and greeting the fans. I am really looking forward the mass signing, I love that. Nicole: Are there any panels you are going to be on? Kim: There are three, two of which I have already been on (Razor’s Edge and Infusing New Blood in the Vampire Genre), which was fun because I got to see LA Banks again, and she is just a wonderful woman in person. Demons Are the New Black on Friday which is right up my alley. I have been told I am going to some kind of challenge. I think they are putting it on the close-circuit TV around the conference. But it’s the mass author signing that I am really looking forward to. Nicole: I read in our own RT magazine that THE OUTLAW DEMON WAILS was supposed to be the end of the Rachel Morgan series. Kim: Orginally it was. But no, it’s not [the end]… Well, it seems that family is about to become a lot more important to her and with that comes the history and her background. We will see her in the ever-after a little bit more, which I am really excited about. We are going to see a little bit more Trent, which I am thrilled [about] because I love writing Rachel and Trent together. I am looking at another six books, maybe four, maybe somewhere in between. I know where I am going with it, and I don’t really want to give too much away. I am ready to write it and see where I go. Nicole: I know you do quite a bit of short stories, and most of them have been Rachel stories. Is the one in HOTTER THAN HELL (June, 2008) a Rachel story? Kim: It is. This one involves Mia, and we saw her first in DATES FROM HELL, and her band. I am bringing her into the HOTTER THAN HELL and then to the regular books. Nicole: Is this the last bit of your tour for OUTLAW DEMON WAILS? Kim: No, this is not. I am actually going to Memphis in a couple of weeks, but it has not shown up on the board yet because I don’t have the details finalized. And then I am going out to LA at the end of May/June for the BEA conference. Which will be cool, and then they will leave me alone and I can write. Nicole: Are there any authors here at RT that you wanted to see this year? Kim: Well, there’s Jocelyn Drake, an up and coming urban fantasy author. Her new book comes out in July, NIGHTWALKER, which I cannot stand the wait. She won’t even show me the cover of it! I am really looking forward to that and getting to see her has been wonderful. Rachel Vincent and her Werecats series. She’s on a couple of panels. It’s been really fun to see her take off and become everything she’s wanted to be. Other than that, just running into old friends. Nicole: To the Guy in the Leather Jacket: Anything you want to say? Guy: No comment. It’s all about Kim. Nicole: Tell me about your new young adult series. Kim: Well, you can get a taste of it in the anthology edited by Meg Cabot, called PROM NIGHTS FROM HELL. It introduces the character named [Madison] Avery. I had a good time writing that one, and the publishers liked it so much they asked me to do it as a series. The first one comes out in June of 2009. It’s coming out in hardcover. It’s a new universe, new characters, it’s not the Hollows. In fact, it’s more urban fantasy than the Rachel books. Nicole: So the upcoming books are…? Kim: HOTTER THAN HELL in June, and spring of next year is the next Rachel. The title of the next Hollows book is WHITE WHITCH, BLACK CURSE. They are also re-releasing the Hollows books in hardcover, starting with DEAD WITCH WALKING starting next month. For more info, check out www.kimharrison.net.
Howdy in Pittsburgh!
 It's been one crazy day, and the RT Convention is barely getting started. First, I will say that the city (what I have seen of it) is beautiful. I am nearly at the top of the hotel and if I lean a bit to my left, I can the Three Rivers not far from here. I got my nifty RT tote full of goodies. Then I had lunch with some wonderful women including Pat Simmons (author and publicist extraordinaire), Amanda McIntyre (luminous and fascinating author), the ever wonderful Lisa Berger, the always on-the-ball Lisa Watson and the so-talented-it-kills-me Patty Harrison. Next, I got to talk with Tawny Taylor, Ellora's Cave author. Below is her post, the first of many great guest authors we will be featuring. Later, after the Ellora's Cave Fantasy Party, I will post the interview with Kim Harrison. The E-Book & Independent Pubs Expo was a rousing success. Tons of authors were there, selling their books, signing autographs and generally just having a ball. I learned so much just from walking around the room! The picture above is of Christiana France, Chevon Gael and Charlotte Featherstone who looked like they were having so much fun, I just had to stop and say hello! So keep your browsers pointed this way and feel free to leave comments for the authors. If you have any questions or want to know about something specific, feel free to ask in the comments below! Nicole
Small (Press) Fish in Big RT Sea
 Hello, RT! For those who don't recognize my name, I'm Tawny Taylor, erotic and paranormal romance author... and RT costume geek. Today, as I wind through crowd-packed hallways and wedge my body into overloaded elevators, my "hello-I'm-friendly-talk-to-me" smile in place, I can't help but marvel at all the amazing talent we have packed into one hotel. OMG, talk about fangirl moments! I've met, talked to, and even hugged authors I've been reading (dare I admit--worshipping?) for years. In a way, all this phenomenal talent makes me feel like a little guppy, lost in the ocean. Outsized, and maybe a little invisible. I'm swimming with the big fishes. Eek! Like many small press authors here, I've launched my career with indie presses and electronic book publishers like Ellora's Cave, and have been slowly building from there. I attribute a fair amount of the success I've achieved (not that I'm this "big thing" yet, LOL) to the Romantic Times Conference. This is my third RT conference, and every year I go home on fire, excited about all the new friends I've met, new projects I want to tackle, and new opportunities I see on the horizon. It's a huge thrill to sit down and talk to a New York bestselling author about her next book over lunch, to chat with my dream agent in the elevator, to sit next to an editor at the bar. This year's RT has just started and already so much has happened, I couldn't begin to write it all down. But it's not all about business. What makes RT even more special for this little guppy are the bookstore owners, reviewers, and readers who know my name. Who smile and say, "I know you. I've read your books." I am incredibly honored and flattered. You may not realize this, but those words make this little guppy feel a lot less *little*. So, what's RT mean to a guppy like me? Lunch with Erin McCarthy and Kathy Love. An agent approaching me in a hallway and handing me a card. An impromptu breakfast with an editor. Dinner with Angela Knight. A guy in a vampire band wearing a t-shirt advertising DARK MASTER, my new vampire novel. One night feeling like a princess, dressed in peacock feather gowns and ornate headdresses that would make a Vegas showgirl green with envy. And last, but most definitely not least, a hug from a reader who loved ANIMAL URGES and can't wait for my next book to come out. Thank you, RT! Tawny Taylor
Making My List, Checking It Twice
Oh, wait, wrong time of year. I am getting ready for Pittsburgh and there's a lot to remember. I don't want to forget my boots for the These Boots Were Made for Stomping party on Saturday. I want to make sure I have my mailing labels ready for Club RT (was told last year that this makes filling out all the forms for the various drawings a lot easier). I want to bring a few books to be signed by favorite authors. And of course, I can't forget my laptop and camera, because after all, I will blogging about the events of the convention. I will be attending a variety of panels, parties and other activities and documenting it all. Also, several authors will be contributing the blog and I will be interviewing others. Authors who have agreed to be a part of the convention blog include: Heather Graham Barry Eisler Linnea Sinclair Bobbi Smith Angela Knight LA Banks Lori Avocato Bonnie Vanak Caridad Pinero Marjorie Liu Tawny Taylor Kim Harrison Robin Owens Jade Lee Sharon Sala So check in here starting Wednesday afternoon and throughout the rest of the convention. And in the meantime, I am going to try to find those boots. Nicole
Guest Blogger: Heather Graham
 We're almost there! It's amazing. Every time an RT ends, everyone is sad. It was a great time, and it's over, and we have an entire year to go before there is another, a long time between seeing friends. It seems forever away. And it was. But now, it's rushed up, and, of course, we're not ready. But getting there. I take off on Sunday. We're stopping for a day in Philadelphia, and then heading in on Monday night. I'll be stopping by Bobbi's classes on Tuesday, and starting to get together with my vampire crew on Wednesday. So much going on! So much to do. How is it in life that we can have so much time, and then, so suddenly, we're not quite ready? Ready or not, it's count down time. This year, so much will be new for me. With Helen Rosburg helping out in hosting, we're sure to offer more and more at the vampire party, Friday night. Also, I'm delighted to say, we'll have a special guest in the show (actually, we're having several, but we'll give this guest his due first!) F. Paul Wilson. I fell in love with his work when I first read THE KEEP, and then, THE TOMB. Now, I'm crazy over his Repairman Jack series. (Soon to be a major motion picture, folks!) Life is sometimes good to us. I was an avid fan, shaking, when I found myself next to Paul at an autographing set up by Levy (some of the world's most wonderful booksellers.) The amazing thing was that I discovered he not only wrote incredible books, but he was an incredible person. Fun, down to earth. And a musician. And we wound up together again in the Killer Thriller Band, along with Harley Jane Kozak and Alex Sokoloff (who joined me last year) and Dave Simms, who will also be joining us this year. He's helped me out with Writers for New Orleans as well (yes, folks, we're doing it again! Great to see the French Quarter doing well, but the outskirts remain in some major trouble.)   So, we have quite a cast going--the Usual Suspects--though I am heartbroken to be missing Mary Stella and Beth Ciotta this year--they just couldn't make it. And Rich Devin, who had a conflict. But Helen Rosburg will up there, along with her daughter, the beautiful Ally. Watch out. Sleeping Beauty will be making an appearance. And, of course, we'll have all kinds of prizes, with the first prize being . . . . you guessed it! $400 in airfare, two nights at the Hotel Monteleone, and two registrations for Writers for New Orleans. Raffles, baskets, and books galore--thanks to Kevin Beard, who has more organization in his little finger than I have in my whole body. And, of course, Connie Perry, and I even believe that Elvis will be in the house. Dress to kill, or dress as if you were killed, or as your favorite fairy tale character--or in that thing you were just always dying to wear. Even a little black dress. First off, though, I'm delighted to be attending some great parties. Wednesday night, Thursday night. Wow. It's here. It's almost here. Can't wait to see you all. P.S: A few members of ye olde Slush Pile Players are headed off to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh on Saturday morning to entertain and bring presents. Anyone who would like to bring a new (Hospital rules!) toy or children's book to the vampire party will automatically be entered into the drawing for the Writers for New Orleans Workshop and other prizes-- guess the perpetrator of evil deeds or not! We kindly thank Scholastic books for their donation, already received.
Six of One, Half Dozen of Another
 A friend of mine is reading the Rogue Angel series by Alex Archer. She bought the first 4 or 5 books a year or two ago, and has been reading the series ever since. Last month, the 11th book came out. When I asked her what she thought of the series, she shrugged and said, "I am not really sure if I like it or not." Ambivalence about a series is a sad thing for a reader. We get all excited about an author and/or a series and we start collecting all the books, anxiously awaiting the newest release. But sometimes, we continue in a series even when we aren't sure why we are still reading. Many fans of Laurell K. Hamilton have experienced this with the Anita Blake series. I have been told by many fans of hers how disappointed they have been in the last few books, but they keep reading them because they loved the first books so much. And while I have heard that that series will return to its roots in future books, for some fans, it may be too late. Reading an iffy book in the middle of a series can be enough to turn even the most ardent fan away. I love the Kitty Norville series by Carrie Vaughn, but KITTY TAKES A HOLIDAY was not one of my favorites. I was disappointed in it, but bought the most recent one in the hopes that I would like it better (and I did). However, a friend of mine who reads the series decided after the last one that she wasn't going to read anymore of them because she was so disenchanted with TAKES A HOLIDAY. Another friend of mine loved the Bridgerton Family series by Julia Quinn, until the last few books. She felt it petered out towards the end of the series, but by the time the 8th and final book came out, she felt like she had to get it because it finished the series. She still hasn't read it. I don't get upset with the authors when I don't like their books. I realize that I may be the only one to feel that way, or that the book serves a purpose in the series whether I liked it or not. But it's disheartening nonetheless to wonder why you are reading a book you feel ambivalent about - especially when you have a TBR pile that you could be digging into. Nicole
Guest Blogger: Bobbi Smith
 Hi Everybody! This is so exciting! Romantic Times' 25th anniversary! It's so hard to believe all these years have passed. I still remember my first time attending at the Roosevelt Hotel. I had never flown before and I didn't know anyone, but I got on a flight and showed up in New York City! I had paid to attend the opening night cruise, but the flight was delayed and I missed it! Darn! After the first year, I was hooked. This is definitely the best place to make contact with booksellers and readers. It's always fun. And the hunk contest is a blast. I was so lucky to have David Allen Johnson on the cover of my book HEAVEN. He toured with me and we had a great time. He's a gentleman of the first order. I'm going to the reunion dinner, so we'll see if David shows up. It would be great to see him again. I've been very excited to be running the Advanced Aspiring Writers' Track. The unpublished authors are an inspiration to me. I still remember the day I finished writing my first book. I was working part-time at a bookstore and went to work that night. I was stocking the psychology section and crying and my friend Margie asked me what was wrong. I told her I finally finished my book. (It had taken me 2 1/2 years writing long hand back in 1980-81.) Margie gave me the best advice ever - she said, "Okay, Stupid! Sell it and write another one!!!" Wow! It had never occurred to me to think past that first book. And now, because I've been so blessed, here I am 25 years later with almost 50 books published. I want to encourage other writers the way Margie encouraged me. I'm really looking forward to seeing everybody and getting to visit. Writing is a very solitary career, and I miss being with real live people! This is a fantastic year for me. I'm going to have 4 books out. Wow. What's never happened before! Too cool! My new western is WANTED! THE HALF-BREED coming out in June from Leisure. My hero is convicted of a murder he didn't commit and sent to prison. He manages to escape a chain gang and returns to find the real killer. The heroine has always loved him and helps him track down the murderer.  Zebra already released TEXAS SPLENDOR this spring and this fall Zebra is putting CAPTURE MY HEART, a pirate book, back out after many, many years and Leisure is re-releasing my 4th book RAPTURE'S TEMPEST. If you like hidden identities, you'll love RAPTURE'S TEMPEST. The heroine disguises herself as a cabin boy for the hero, who's a steamboat captain. It's a fun read. I love these stories! And I'm honored that they're back in print again.   Only about 14 days and counting!!! See you soon! Bobbi Smith
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