Romantic Times recap

I know everyone’s been writing their recaps of the RT 2012 convention, so I thought I’d throw out a few thoughts as well. And…yes…it’s taken me this long to recover enough to string a few lousy words together. I was a bit of a zombie the first couple of days back!

(Speaking of zombies, Lexxie Couper and Sami Lee made brilliant ones at the Friday night party!)

The event is always an exciting one and for so many different reasons. First of all, it’s a wonderful chance to connect with readers. I was finally able to put faces with the names of beloved ladies who’ve written, tweeted, and “Facebooked” me with words of encouragement throughout the year. All I can say is these folks are even more awesome in person. I smiled so much my face hurt because I was so genuinely thrilled to meet them.

(Gigi, KittyKelly and Shari–a portrait of awesomeness!)

Secondly, the event allows me time to sit down and have a little face-to-face time with my editors. I was lucky because both my Samhain and Ellora’s Cave editors were there. I work very closely with these amazing ladies throughout the year, so being able to talk to them in person is a true gift. I’d met them both before, but I feel like this year, I got some really great quality time with them. So yay!

(Lexxie Couper with our beloved EC editor, Kelli)

Finally, I was able to spend time with other writers. Being an author is a very solitary career and there are very few people in my “real life” who know that I write. It’s lovely to be “Mari Carr” for a few days. To talk about the business, the heartbreaks, the joys, the frustrations, and all the crazy stuff that makes up being a published author. For the first time since its inception, we had NINE of the 12 International Heat ladies in the same place at the same time. These gals are the sisters of my heart and our time together last week is something I will always treasure!