2009 Romantic Times Booklovers Convention

This is me just before they opened the doors to the Giant Book Fair at last year's RT Con -- 350 authors and 3,000-5,000 fans.

I'll be speaking on a panel and signing at the book fair at the Romantic Times Booklovers Convention at the Wyndham Orlando Resort in Orlando, FL, April 22-26, 2009.

Yeah, I know it seems a little early to talk about convention appearances for next year, but in case some of you are interested in going, it's not too early to put it on your calendar. Rooms in the convention hotel get snapped up quickly. Here's a link to the convention's "pre-website" where you can sign up to get notified via email when convention registration opens.

I consider myself to be a fantasy author, but since my book has what the industry calls "romantic elements," I've been enthusiastically embraced by romance fans. Thank you!! Last year was my first time at the RT Con, and I had an absolute blast -- and as an added bonus, I got to speak to Fabio in a hotel hallway (apparently we were staying on the same floor). FYI -- I'd never been a Fabio fan before then, but for the record, he's very tall and extremely yum. And heck, blonds aren't even my type. ; )

Once again, Linnea Sinclair (romantic sci-fi author extraordinaire, mentor, and author gal pal) has invited me to speak on her panel STARSHIPS & SORCERY. It'll run for 2 hours, and here's the session description:

Explore the best of both universes with today's top science fiction and fantasy romance authors. Learn how these bestselling authors build their worlds and craft their characters in the most imaginative of genres. What are the five worst mistakes a science fiction or fantasy author can make? What were these top authors' scariest moments in writing? And why are men now flocking to read science fiction romance? Have questions about these authors' books or characters? Bring 'em! Don't miss this out-of-this world panel, and, oh yes, there will be a door-prize drawing. MODERATOR: Linnea Sinclair PANELISTS: P.C. Cast, Stacey Klemstein, Cindy Holby/Colby Hodge, Lisa Shearin, Robin D. Owens, Ann Aguirre, Eve Silver/Eve Kenin, Karen Miller, Michele Lang. More authors to be announced.

Upcoming topics through next week: Writing discipline, writer's block, 1st person vs 3rd person, writing & critique groups, music I listen to while writing, and how I plot a book.

Lisa