
I’m here to dispel the myths and/or assumptions of what happens at a conference.
The actual book selling is usually about a two to four hour session depending on the size of the convention. This is a time when you can walk around and get books signed and chat up the authors… but it’s not the only time. And trust me, the authors are not your overly pushy conventioniers who are trying to sell you the latest gadget. Nope, we’ll talk to you and tell you about our book, see what you like when you read and hope we fall in your favorite genre.
Now aside from the book signing have a full weekend of activities. I’m not sure what happens at other conventions, but at romance writer ones here’s a few things that might just happen.
Cover models show up… some take off their shirts… sometimes there are strippers. You may learn a new hobby, have an intimate lunch with your favorite author, or play games. You’ll definatly come home with at least one to fifty free books, on top of the ones you pay for. You’ll learn about the writing process, how writers keep themselves from going insane and maybe even dance.
At conventions I’ve sang karoke… my apologies to those in the crowd. Been spanked, had a model tattoo me (temporary) although there have been conventions where you can come out with a real one. Listened to a model who’s also a singer, danced like no one was watching and pulled a few shy readers in with me because you might as well have fun. Had a consultation with a romantic items distributor (sex toys). Played naughty mistress says (a take on Simon says), naughty scrabble, naughty… well you get the picture.
Conventions are fun for all with a mixture of events going on at all times. Maybe you don’t want to attend the memosas and scavenger hunt, that’s okay, check out the paranormal group and discover your inner supernatural being.
This year I’ve already attended a one day fun author event, but there are more to come. So why not take a weekend and spend it with those who take you away to other worlds.
April 24th-25th, A Day With the Authors (was expanded from just a lunch and man will it be fun. Come to my party I’m hosting with four other authors on Friday night) $50 for a reader ticket $75 for VIP reader ticket. In Nashville, TN.
May 15th -17th Interracial Romance Authors Expo, in Orlando, FL. Character ball and all sorts of fun all on the Disney property.
September 25th-27th RomCon in Denver, CO. Everything and then some. Have lunch with me while a keynote speaker inspires us then party into the night.
October 22nd-25th Midwestern Book Lovers Unite, Mall of America in Bloomington, MN. I know I’ll have cover models taking pictures with attendees, Jackson Young will serenade you and then there’s the other fun stuff.