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| Stephenie Laurens, Pamela Spengler-Jaffee (of HarperCollins and Victoria Alexander |
The official start of RWA and people were lined up for registration at 7 a.m. After waiting in a very long line, I found out that my stuff was at a different location. I got my name badge, Barbara Bey, close enough. So, we took a marker and made the B a V (they have since printed a new one spelled correctly).
The Librarian breakfast is always a wonderful event. These people know their books and are so enthusiastic about it. Dorthea Benton Frank was the speaker and she entertained with tales about how she came to writing. She wanted to buy her mother’s house and they didn’t have the money, so her husband challenged her to write a book to pay for it. She did.
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| Historical Group: Maire Jolie, Hanna Rhys Barnes, Annemarie Hasnain, Deliah Marvelle |
The luncheon speaker was Stephanie Laurens who used science to explain why everyone should read romance. Her ultimate proclamation: "Read romance or perish." The librarians at my table were planning on making banners to hang in their libraries.
I stopped by the Beau Monde and Hearts through History gathering. They had panels like Life as a Roman Centurion, Victorian Clothing, My Lady’s Boudoir, Historical Medicine and Illnesses and Sex through History. Obviously, these writers do a lot of research and it shows.
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| Kris Hohls, me and Lucy Abarcia |
The Literacy Signing had 450 authors signing their books for charity. It was packed as usual, but some very happy readers went home with arms full of books signed by their favorite authors. While I was I was there I met Kris Hohls from Germany who does LoveLetter Magazin and Lucy Abarcia from Austraila with Ever After – The Romance Book Specialists. Once they said they read my blog all the time, I knew we’d be BFFs (best friends forever).
Sherrilyn Kenyon brought along two of the characters from her popular Dark-Hunter series, Acheron (Ash) and Nick. These guys were very much in demand for photos, so of course, I had to get in line for this. St. Martin’s had a party after the signing and the first 200 fans that had books signed were invited. There was a DJ and a cake with the cover of her new book, Acheron.
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| Ash (Michael Johnson), me and Nick (Forrest Koig) |
Next up was the Romance Bandits party. This online group had Tim Tams (Austrailian cookie covered in chocolate) since some of their Austrialian members took the long journey here. I heard one person say it took 3 days with all the airport delays. No thanks.
The OCC (Orange County Chapter) gave awards away at their party. The rectangular acrylic blocks were engraved with the winner’s name and catagory. I’m going to have to write a book so I can win one.
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The Romance Bandits |
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The Orange County Chapter |
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Nora Roberts Shoes |
Now for my special feature. One of the big topics is what shoes Nora Roberts is wearing. So everyday I’ll try to hunt her down and get a picture of her feet. Here’s what she was wearing at registration.
And, for your enjoyment, a couple of Drive By Videos with authors Jill Monroe and Gena Showalter (they are wild and crazy in person too).
Bottom Line: Since I was wearing my orthopedic shoes, I won’t be posting a picture of my feet.
Authors Jill Monroe and Gena Showalter








Wonderful reporting, Barbara. Reading your blog is very exciting. Keep giving us the great stories. And next year, I’m tagging along. Joyce Ann
Hey Barbara, love Nora’s shoes! Whoo Hoo, what a cool way to start the conference rolling! Loved all of it.
I can’t wait for Acheron! I want my own Dark Hunters!
I can’t wait for Acheron! I want my own Dark Hunters!
LaDonna and I think alike. I loved Nora’s shoes too. And your hair looks great, Barbara!
Barbara, I was there for almost all the events you talk about and yet it’s a ton of fun to read about them on your blog. It’s like getting to do it all over again.
Hi Barbara, loved the video. It was an amazing experience. On the night of the signing, Nora was wearing black heels…were those things 6 inches? I could have sworn they were. I met both Gena and Jill, and you are right…they are wild and crazy in person. They are so nice. I got pics of the two sides of Jill, and I got a pic of Gena too…it was great meeting them. Peace and love, Paula R.
Hey, Barbara! It was great to have you stop by the Romance Bandits party last night. And how fun that you’re showing Nora’s shoes each day.
Love your column and Nora’s shoes.
Just fun keeping up with your adventures!
Just fun keeping up with your adventures!
Okay that’s it, Barbara I need a copy of your conference schedule so I can go to everyone you go to. They just sound like I’m missing out on all the good fun when you report them!
I just want you to grab hold of Ash and Nick and take them home, they’re not to be left alone in a room full of romanced up women… lol. How fun.
Gosh – I wish I was there but I’m glad you are sending back reports from the front lines. Have fun for everyone who cannot attend
Hi Barbara! I just got in from a turbulent flight back home (Is the room rocking?) but wanted to say we loved having you at the Romance Bandits Bash!
Wow Barb–I can’t say enough about your videos! Thanks for keeping us so up-to-date at the seminars you attend! It makes us feel like we are there with you!
I really like what you guys are up too. This type of clever convert and reportage! Enter up the superior activity guys I’ve else you guys to our blogroll.
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