RT Recap - Grand Finale

The Giant Book Fair is the jewel in the crown of the RT Booklovers' Convention.  I swam through the crowds to meet Sara Flynn, the pen name of Meg Tilly.  From Amazon,

She may be best known for her acclaimed Golden Globe-winning lead performance in the movie Agnes of God. However, Meg Tilly is taking on an exciting new persona these days, as debut romance novelist Sara Flynn.

Set on an island in the Pacific Northwest, SOLACE ISLAND tells the suspenseful story of a woman, dumped by her business partner/fiancé during her bachelorette party, who discovers a rewarding new career, romance and threats on her life in an idyllic vacation community. Two more Sara Flynn romances set on Solace Island will follow.

Tilly has three grown children and resides with her husband in the Pacific Northwest. She is currently at work writing that second Solace Island novel.

I chatted with Sara for a few minutes - she is a fan of Lorraine Heath!  I purchased SOLACE ISLAND and look forward to posting a review in the future.

On Sunday morning, as I was exiting the hotel, I spotted Charlaine Harris.  I thanked her for her son's service in the Army.  Outside, as I waited for my cab, I offered to share it with Helen Hardt.  From Goodreads, 

#1 New York Times bestselling author Helen Hardt's passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award winning author of contemporary and historical romance and erotica, she’s a mother, an attorney, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family.

She then noted E.L. James was standing next to us.  Not one to waste an opportunity, I introduced myself to the author of FIFTY SHADES OF GREY.  We chatted about her home in England. I mentioned that my mother hailed from Torquay in Devon.  E.L. paused and replied, "Oh, I had a night in Torquay."  Perhaps we can expect a book in the future about Torquay ...

Thank you, RT Booklovers' Convention, for an action packed week in Atlanta!  

For this week of recaps, I am giving away a sampling of books and swag from RT. To enter the giveaway,

1. Leave a comment about beaches - do you have a favorite?

2. Comments are open through Monday, May 15, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I'll post the winner on Tuesday, May 16.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Babbacombe Beach in Torquay - Nicknamed the English Riviera

RT Recap Day 5 - Historical Lunch, Spectacle of Lights, and Awards Ceremony

The best part of RT is spending time with favorite authors!  I invited a group of historical authors to lunch to exchange information about the Historical Romance Retreat (link). Elizabeth Hoyt, Elizabeth Essex, and reader Anna attended last year ... and Anna Harrington, Janna MacGregor, Cathy Maxwell, Kate Pearce and reader Tamara are attending this year.  Rounding out our table was my partner in crime, Kim Rocha, and Author RX founder, Mel Jolly.  A lady never discusses the secrets she hears ...

Fortified with a delicious lunch, I helped set up for Avon Presents A Spectacle of Lights:

Enter a Kaleidoscopic swirl of color and light at Avon's annual party at the RT Booklovers Convention, where special photo stations will be set up for readers to take pictures with their favorite Avon and William Morrow authors. There will be plenty of complimentary books and eBooks for attendees, as well as sweet reading surprises! As always, sweets will be served, and readers can raise a toast to romance as they mix and mingle at this prismatic Friday night party. 

Appearing(s): Ilona Andrews, Jennifer L. Armentrout, Lenora Bell, Viola Carr, HelenKay Dimon, Megan Frampton, Alison Gaylin, Shelley Shepard Gray, Lorraine Heath, Beverly Jenkins, Laura Kaye, Cathy Maxwell, Charis Michaels, Julia Quinn, Alisha Rai, Lia Riley, and Karin Slaughter.

Once the doors opened, I served an an author assistant to ... Cathy Maxwell!

I had just enough time to change for the RT Awards ceremony cohosted by actress-turned-author Meg Tilly and former Mr Romance Mark Johnson.  Meg was wonderful - she truly loves romance books!  I sat next to Lenora Bell who had not eaten ... so I shared my grapes.  I cheered for Lenora, HelenKay Dimon, Lorraine Heath, Cathy Maxwell, and many more.  

For this week of recaps, I am giving away a sampling of books and swag from RT. To enter the giveaway,

1. Leave a comment about flowers - what is your favorite? Like authors, I love all flowers!

2. Comments are open through Monday, May 15, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I'll post the winner on Tuesday, May 16.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

RT Recap Day 4 - Military Tribute, Avon Romance, and Margaret Mitchell

How about a cowboy to start off the day?  I attended the Librarians/Booksellers' special program - In Conversation with BJ Daniels, Lorelei James, and Lorraine Heath:

Cowboy books have never been more desirable--Meet some of the genre’s biggest stars - they will share personal anecdotes, the history of the genre, where they think it’s headed and how they started out.

I moseyed on over to the annual SOS Military Tribute:

Our military is the backbone of our country. They pay the price for our freedom through all of their sacrifices. This military tribute is a multi-author-sponsored event to pay a moving tribute to our military and all they have done for our country. This event is open to all. Tables will be decorated by authors representing Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, etc.

Hosts included KaLyn Cooper, Cristin Harber, Elle James, Cat Johnson, Kim Lowe, JM Madden, Trish McCallan, Donna Michaels, Megan Mitcham, Caitlyn O'Leary, Ella Quinn, Julie Rowe, Susan Stoker, Natasza Waters, and Sabrina York.

It amazes me each year how much readers appreciate our military. Thanks to the authors who made this an emotional event.

I reported for duty at the Avon Romance Reader Party - Clinch It:

How daring are you? Find out at this fun game-show style event, which will pair readers with Avon authors in a series of fun challenges, with participation judged by a panel of judges. Earn points for participation! Winners take all ... the books, that is! The winning team will win totes generously stuffed with books and swag, compliments of Avon.

Authors included Lenora Bell, Viola Carr, HelenKay Dimon, Megan Frampton, Lorraine Heath, Beverly Jenkins, Cathy Maxwell, Charis Michaels, Alisha Rai, and Lia Riley.

I was honored to be asked by Pamela Spengler-Jaffee, Senior Director of Publicity for Avon Romance, to serve as a judge along with historical author Beverly Jenkins and editorial director Erika Tsang.  I put my math skills to use as the scorekeeper, too.  Let me tell you this was the best reader party, second only to the SOS Military Tribute. Readers were laughing, singing, posing, and conspiring with the author at their table to win the big prize - a tote bag stuffed with romance books and a bottle of wine! Charis Michaels belted out THE DEVIL WENT DOWN TO GEORGIA to lead her team to victory!

Clearly Avon was on my mind as I followed the historical authors to the Margaret Mitchell House for a special Q&A with Lenora Bell, Megan Frampton, Lorraine Heath, Beverly Jenkins, Cathy Maxwell, and Julia Quinn.  Charis Michaels moderated this lively discussion of historical romance in one of Atlanta's sacred homes.  Thanks, Avon Romance, for a fabulous day!

Margaret Mitchell House 

For this week of recaps, I am giving away a sampling of books and swag from RT. To enter the giveaway,

1. From the authors I have listed in today's blog, who would you like to meet? 

2. Comments are open through Monday, May 15, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I'll post the winner on Tuesday, May 16.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Margaret Mitchell House

RT Recap Day 3 - Breakfast, Bingo, and Historical Babes

Wednesday brought the first full day of the RT Booklovers Convention. Tamara and I skipped the crush of readers attending the kick off party to enjoy a leisure breakfast in the hotel restaurant - we loved the vegetable hash made from sweet potatoes with a egg on top!  This hardy meal fortified me for BEACH BLANKET BINGO with:

Christi Barth, Julia  Day, Eileen Dreyer, Elizabeth Essex, Avery Flynn, Maggie Mae Gallagher, Andrew Grey, Heidi Hormel, Jessica James, Harper Kincaid, Geri Krotow,Tamra Lassiter, Rae Latte, Ann Lethbridge, Siera London, Janna MacGregor, Stacy McKitrick, Kate Pearce, Ella Quinn, Julie Rowe, Jessica Ruddick (AKA: Jessica Linden), Dawn Ryder, Joanna Shupe, Teri Anne Stanley, and Beth Williamson

Bingo took a back seat to singing - the Historical authors sang Abba's DANCING QUEEN, the spicy authors sang Pat Benetar's FIRE AND ICE, and the contemporary authors sang the Beach Boys' KOKOMO.  Thanks to the authors for joining the fun! 

Once we cleaned up, it was time for an early dinner!  I dined with Tracy Solheim, Kate Pearce, and two other readers at SWEET GEORGIA'S JUKE JOINT (link).  The combination of Southern food and jazz music was the perfect setting for winding down after a busy day. 

After dinner, I peeked into the Romance Rockabilly Street Festival.  Publishers hosted game booths while the band played swing music.  Many readers dressed in polka dots dresses and rolled up jeans. Cathy Maxwell and Heather Graham showed us how to dance!

For this week of recaps, I am giving away a sampling of books and swag from RT. To enter the giveaway,

1. What song would you have sang with authors ... feel free to name any song!  Or what is your favorite Southern food?

2. Comments are open through Monday, May 15, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I'll post the winner on Tuesday, May 16.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Below is the historical authors at the Pistols and Petticoats party ... 

Aloha to Beach Blanket Bingo, Maggie Mae Gallagher, and ASCENDED (The Cantati Chronicles)

We are less than a week away from the RT Booklovers' Convention (link).  I'm packing up my goodies for Beach Blanket Bingo (link),

Join Annette Funicello (Kim Rocha) & Frankie Avalon (Kim Lowe) for a special edition of Book Cover Bingo. Expect spontaneous singing, dancing and flirting with lifeguards inspired by the beloved 60s film. Readers will join sun-loving authors at their favorite beaches and compete for the book laden gift baskets ... perfect for the sand and surf!

I am looking forward to seeing (again) my fellow college alumni, Maggie Mae Gallagher - she attended the University of Tampa several years after I graduated.  From her bio (link),

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Maggie grew up listening to Cardinals baseball and reading anything she could get her hands on. She remembers her mother saying if only she would read the right type of books instead binging her way through the romance aisles at the bookstore, she’d have been a doctor. While Maggie never did get that doctorate, she graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with an M.A. in History.

Maggie is a bestselling and award-winning author published in multiple fiction genres. She also writes erotic romance under the name Anya Summers. A total geek at her core, when she is not writing, she adores attending the latest comic con or spending time with her family. She currently lives in the Midwest with her two furry felines.

Maggie attended the University of Tampa several years after I graduated.  Maggie recently celebrated the release of ASCENDED, Book 3 of the THE CANTATI CHRONICLES:

War. It’s here. The last war of mankind. The winner takes Earth as its prize. 

My name is Alana Devereaux. I am an elite Cantati Forces Lieutenant from Earth’s desolate future. I was sent back through time to save your world. My mission to stop the Mutari faltered. Demons infiltrated our world when the walls between Earth and Infernus fell. Millions died in the first volleys.

The Mutari changed me on an elemental level and my new powers scare the bloody daylights out of me. Formorian Hunters are closing in on my trail with a singular goal, to enact the death warrant placed on my head by their Queen. Now I am running for my life, on a quest to discover a way to kill an immortal on a power trip, stuck between mortal enemies, and everyone else wants me dead.

For the month of April, I am giving away a box of books from authors attending RT. To enter the giveaway,

1. Let's chat about baseball - my father, like Maggie, grew up listening to Cardinals' on the radio. My oldest son was born on Scott AFB, across the river from St. Louis, so he too is a Cardinals fan.  How about you?

2. Comments are open through Sunday, April 30, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I will be offline from Monday, May 1 - Sunday, May 7.

4. I'll post the winner on Sunday, May 8.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Books 1 and 2 in the series 

Aloha to Beach Blanket Bingo, Rae Latte, and BOOKS I LOVE A LATTE

We are 10 days away from the RT Booklovers' Convention in Atlanta!  Kim Rocha and I are hosting Beach Blanket Bingo;

Join Annette Funicello (Kim Rocha) & Frankie Avalon (Kim Lowe) for a special edition of Book Cover Bingo. Expect spontaneous singing, dancing and flirting with lifeguards inspired by the beloved 60s film. Readers will join sun-loving authors at their favorite beaches and compete for the book laden gift baskets ... perfect for the sand and surf!

Event Date:
Wednesday, May 3, 2017 2:45pm – 3:45pm
Location: LL2/Exhibit/Reader Level
Room: Grand Hall West, 3

We invited 25 authors ... and 1 blogger ... participate.  It is my pleasure today to introduce you to our fellow blogger, Rae Latte, from Books I Love A Latte.

Kim: Tell us about your blog - what inspired you to create Books I Love A Latte?

Rae: A few years ago Donna MacMeans posted on social media that Advanced Reader Copies were available for her then upcoming book The Whisky Laird's Bed (Rake Patrol). As a lover of whiskey and romance, I knew I needed to get my hands on that book.

For years I’d been keeping a journal of all the books I’d read and periodically posted my thoughts on Goodreads. Within a half hour, I’d secured a Blog name, website, Facebook account, and Twitter account. The rest is history!

Over the years I’ve grown my reader following and in January launched a new website as I continue to expand and promote must read books. One of my favorite features is my Coffee With posts where I interviewed Actors, Authors, Cover Models and other professionals in the industry. Some notable guests at the cafe have been Actor Scott Kyle from Outlander (Season 2) on the Starz network series, Chef Dan Churchill, Cover Models Scott Nova and Charles Paz. If my guest can be connected to a great book, then they are welcome in the café on the blog.

Also, I also feature new releases, cover releases, reviews, participate in Blog Tours and make sure to connect on social media.

As a book reviewer, I prefer only to post reviews of books that I love. Most book review blogs feature a rating system to inform readers of what’s hot or not so hot. While I might not connect to a particular book, the time it takes to craft a book from the first page to the last is both time consuming and someone’s baby. If I tell you it’s a miss, you might have just passed on the one book that could change your life! So, the only thing that I rate is a spicy meter for some of the books that are beyond the normal zest in a romance novel.

Donna MacMeans

Kim: You mentioned living in Nice - jealous! What was your favorite sight, sound, and smell of the French Riviera?

Rae: One of the things I loved about the French Riviera was that everything was within walking distance or a quick hop on the bus. I enjoyed meandering through the streets and browsing in the shops.

I vividly remember the aroma as I walked past a boulangerie-pâtisserie on the city street. Everyone walking past knew when fresh pastries were pulled hot out of the oven. It was a miracle that anything made it back to my apartment, some days it didn’t ;)!

At night I enjoyed sitting at the beach or walking along the Promenade de Anglais and listening to the water pull along the rocks as the tide came in. Enjoying it with friends under a sky full of stars, it was paradise. 

Nice, France

Kim: What are the rewards and challenges of book blogging?

Rae: The rewards of book blogging are simple; I am privileged to read books before they are released. Afterward, I can then share my joy with other book lovers. As a blogger, I love that I can connect with Authors, Publicists, and Publishers to help promote their books. In fact, I look forward to finally meeting many of them at RT in Atlanta next week.

While blogging is rewarding, there are also challenges, specifically the moments when I don’t receive a book that I’ve been patiently waiting to read. But, I’m just one of many in the blogging world, and I’ve learned to accept it and move forward. Just because I am a book blogger does not guarantee me an advance copy of any books. It just depends on where the books are being distributed from and by whom. For the books that I can’t read early, I wait like everyone else until release day. I then purchase those books and dive into that story.

Every review on my site has a disclaimer that I receive books in exchange for a fair and honest review. While I receive many in that manner, I still purchase books or visit my local library to do my share in supporting the industry.

I look forward to whatever is next in my blogging journey. If you see me at RT please be sure and say hello!

Mahalo, Rae, for sharing your blogging journey!  Learn more about Rae Latte and her blog at booksilovealatte.com.

For the month of April, I am giving away a box of books from authors attending RT. To enter the giveaway,

1. Let's chat about boulangerie-pâtisserie -  bread and pasteries!  Yum ... what is your favorite treat to buy from a bakery?  I would indulge in a mille-feuille aka Napoleon!

2. Comments are open through Sunday, April 30, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I will be offline from Monday, May 1 - Sunday, May 7.

4. I'll post the winner on Sunday, May 8.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Mille-feuille aka Napoleon

Image by George Seguin (link)

Aloha to Beach Blanket Bingo, Tracy Solheim, and SMOLDER

I have started packing for the RT Booklovers Convention in Atlanta, Georgia!  Kim Rocha (Book Obsessed Chicks) and I are hosting Beach Blanket Bingo:

Join Annette Funicello (Kim Rocha) & Frankie Avalon (Kim Lowe) for a special edition of Book Cover Bingo. Expect spontaneous singing, dancing, & flirting with lifeguards inspired by the beloved 60s film. Readers will join sun loving authors at their favorite beaches and compete for the book laden gift baskets ... perfect for the sand and surf!

Wednesday, May 3, 2017 2:45pm – 3:45pm
Location: LL2/Exhibit/Reader Level
Room: Grand Hall West, 3

Kim and I invited 26 authors to join us, including Atlanta local Tracy Solheim:

Tracy Solheim, a military brat who now makes her home near Atlanta, began her writing career as a teenager when she penned a column in her town's local newspaper. Then, it was on to journalism school and a brief stint with NBC sports. After spending nearly two decades writing reports and testimonies for Congress, she delved into fiction. She lives in the suburbs with her husband, two teenagers, a Labrador retriever who thinks she's a cat and a horse named after her first novel. When she's not writing, she enjoys photography, cooking, and reading. A frustrated sports writer, the books she loves to read--and write--feature athletes and the women who capture their hearts. See what's she's up to at www.tracysolheim.com.

Tracy is know for romance set in the sports world and small towns ... but roared onto the scene with a smoking hot romance, SMOLDER:

Former Army Ranger, Sam Gaskill, is starting over in Glacier Creek, Montana - far away from the plains of Texas and the memories of his late wife. Taking charge as the new captain of a squad of smoke jumpers should provide him with enough adrenaline to chase away the ghosts from his past. Until a sexy, green-eyed temptress with a sassy mouth enters the picture…

Laurel Keenan, champion horsewoman, couldn’t wait to escape her hometown. But instead, an ailing mother and an unplanned pregnancy landed the impetuous dreamer right back on her father’s ranch. Laurel has managed to lead a quiet life with her young son—until she sets eyes on the tough guy with the sexy ass.

Sam already failed one woman; he won’t trust his heart with another. And Laurel is determined not to risk her heart—or her son’s—on another thrill-seeker. Can their slow burn lead to a love that lasts?

Glacier National Park

Public Domain (link)

For the month of April, I am giving away a box of books from authors attending RT. To enter the giveaway,

1. Readers - do you have any advice for authors at conventions?

2. Comments are open through Sunday, April 30, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I will be offline from Monday, May 1 - Sunday, May 7.

4. I'll post the winner on Sunday, May 8.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Ask a Blogger: Roll Out the Red Carpet for Readers - Maximizing the Author Experience at Romance Conventions

I have a new feature here at SOS Aloha - Ask a Blogger. Several authors have asked me what to expect at the RT Booklovers Convention, coming to Atlanta from May 3 - 7 at this link. To answer their questions, I offer an article I wrote for RWA's monthly magazine, the Romance Writers Report with a few updates:

Roll Out the Red Carpet for Readers - 

Maximizing the Author Experience at Romance Conventions

Convention season is upon us. It is prime time to meet readers, reviewers, and bloggers who can make (or break) your writing career. I’ve traveled over 2500 miles, across the Pacific Ocean, to attend conventions. So I have high expectations of the author experience. I offer several tips for you to offer the ultimate author experience for the readers you meet.

Before you go,

- Update your social media, including your website, Facebook, Twitter, etc.  Make sure that readers can follow up their personal experience with online access to your bio, books, and contact information.

- Order promotional material that readers will want to take home. All materials, at the very least, must direct the reader to your online presence. It may be easy to hand out buttons at a panel discussion. The challenge is to inspire readers take the buttons home. Suitcases grow fatter as each day passes as a convention. Make sure your promotional material is relevant, informative, and useful – enough so to make the cut in the limited luggage space.

- Know your audience. Does the convention appeal to a wide range of readers or is it a genre focused? Is it large enough to attract readers from around the country or will there be a regional draw? Knowing your audience helps you pack your promotional materials and prepare your public persona.

During the conference,

- Be the rock star readers think you are. I have been attending RT since 2006 and RWA since 2009; I still get goose bumps when I meet an author. No matter where you are in the convention area - workshops, hallways, elevators, restaurants – you will be on public display. Be prepared to sign books, hand out bookmarks, and take photos with your adoring fans. If you need a break from the fishbowl, escape the convention hotel to a nearby restaurant for some down time with your chapter mates.

- Create a signature look. Cherry Adair wears a bright colored flower pinned to her dress.  Jaffe Kennedy sports a large hat. Cathy Maxwell laughs out load. These public personas invite readers to interact with the authors.

- Be spontaneous. If a reader is walking around the lobby, looking for a place to sit, invite the reader to sit with you. If your table at the book fair intersects with the overflowing line of a popular author, engage the readers waiting in line. Break away from your comfort level of being with your author friends to stand in line with a group of readers. You will not only introduce readers to your public persona, but learn firsthand what they want from romance.

- Create opportunities. If readers identify themselves as reviewers, ask for a review. If they identify themselves as bloggers, ask to be a guest. If you commit, follow through with that commitment. Nothing turns off readers more than opportunities that fizzle.

- Be prepared for all personalities. Some readers, like authors, claim to be introverts. Employ techniques to draw these readers into conversation. Other readers are in/out, maximizing their limited time at the book fair. Respond accordingly and send them on their merry way. You will also meet readers who will want to monopolize your time – I’m guilty! Find the balance of including the enthusiast reader while drawing in the introvert.

- Be gracious. I’ve seen fans give nominal gifts to their favorite authors, only to hear the authors later make fun of the gifts. Don’t gossip - remember the fish bowl. Even if you are dining away from the convention hotel, be aware of who may be listening at the next table. Save your complaints for your pet at home. Your pet gives you the opportunity to vent without the possibility of it being repeated.

- Have fun. A smile speaks louder than words.

Once you go home,

- Share your experience, and especially pictures, on social media. Readers will enjoy your musings. Even I enjoy reading authors’ perspectives of the conventions I attended. Give away some of the swag, including your own, so your fans feel a part of your travels.

- Follow up with the contacts you made. Check out the social media of the readers, reviewers, and bloggers you met. Contact them for reviews, promotion, or even just a thank you for their company at the convention.

- Take note what you learned about the convention and share with your chapter. Provide constructive feedback to the convention organizers so they, too, can improve the author experience for both the reader and the author.

Kim Lowe created her book blog, SOS Aloha, as virtual connection to Romanceland while living in Hawaii. Readers’ interest in Paradise lead to her travel blog, ALOHA ON MY MIND. Kim now lives in the Baltimore, bringing the Aloha Spirit to Charm City. You’ll find Kim at romance events in her signature look – an Aloha shirt.

For the month of April, I am giving away a box of books from authors attending RT. To enter the giveaway,

1. Readers - do you have any advice for authors at conventions?

2. Comments are open through Sunday, April 30, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I will be offline from Monday, May 1 - Sunday, May 7.

4. I'll post the winner on Sunday, May 8.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Aloha to Beach Blanket Bingo, Christi Barth, and TRYING IT ALL (Naked Men Series)

It's a gloomy day in Baltimore ... so let's escape to the beach! We are counting down to the RT Booklovers Convention (link), May 2 - 7, 2017, in HotLanta!  Kim Rocha and I are hosting Beach Blanket Bingo (link)

Join Annette Funicello (Kim Rocha) & Frankie Avalon (Kim Lowe) for a special edition of Book Cover Bingo. Expect spontaneous singing, dancing, & flirting with lifeguards inspired by the beloved 60s film. Readers will join sun loving authors at their favorite beaches and compete for the book laden gift baskets ... perfect for the sand and surf!

Christi Barth is joining us to celebrate the May release of TRYING IT ALL, Book 4 in her Naked Men Series: 

Order. Attention to detail. Never leaving anything to chance. These are the qualities that make Riley Ness such a terrific federal agent . . . and a pain in the ass to everyone else. The only time Riley lets loose is when he’s hanging out with his closest pals. So when he’s thrown together with gorgeous, flighty Summer Sheridan, Riley’s brain tells him she’s a ticking time bomb—but his body doesn’t want to play by the rules.

Riley has to be the most irritating man Summer has ever met. The brooding hunk thinks he needs to teach her a few lessons about real life, while she’d rather show him how to enjoy it. But her BFF’s all but engaged to Riley’s best friend, and besides, their intense physical chemistry is all too real. Summer just needs Riley to try to meet her halfway and take a chance with the one thing that matters: his heart.

Christi is an author local to me ... from her bio (link):

Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series. Christi can always be found whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.

Christi's favorite beach is .... Ocean City!  For the month of April, I am giving away a box of books from authors attending RT, including Christi!  To enter the giveaway,

1.  Leave a comment about gourmet meals ... do you whip them up like Christi?  Or do you prefer the role as taster?  Do you have a favorite "gourmet" meal to make or taste?

I prefer to be the taster ... I'm open to almost any "flavor" - Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Indian - as long as it doesn't have unusual ingredients.

2. Comments are open through Sunday, April 30, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I will be offline from Monday, May 1 - Sunday, May 7.

4. I'll post the winner on Sunday, May 8.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

More books in the Naked Men series ...

Aloha to Weekly Winners, RT Booklovers Convention, and Authors Galore

We have winners from last week's posts - Kim H. and Maureen win a book choice from my convention stash.  

Speaking of conventions, the RT Booklovers' Convention is one month away in Hot Atlanta!  From its website (link),

The RT Booklovers Convention is the book-industry event where you can mix business with pleasure. Attend more than 200 workshops as well as numerous parties and reader events that will keep you informed and in touch while having fun. It's where friends new and old come together to learn about the industry we love and to have fun with authors and fellow book lovers. Fifty percent of conventioneers are first-time RT Convention attendees, and many travel by themselves. However, almost all leave having made new friendships they'll cherish for years to come.

I am participating in four events:

Great Expectations - Virtual Assistants

Looking to build a successful partnership with a Virtual Assistant?

Virtual Assistants Kim & Kim explore what a virtual assistant can offer an author, including social media, newsletters, and blog tours. Kim & Kim will offer a step by step process to find the right assistant so authors can focus on the creative process.

Speaker(s):
Kim Lowe
Kimberly Rocha

Event Date:
Wednesday, May 3, 2017 11am – 12pm
Location: LL3/Conference/Industry Level
Room: Fairlie

Beach Blanket Bingo

Join Annette Funicello (Kim Rocha) & Frankie Avalon (Kim Lowe) for a special edition of Book Cover Bingo. Expect spontaneous singing, dancing, & flirting with lifeguards inspired by the beloved 60s film. Readers will join sun loving authors at their favorite beaches and compete for the book laden gift baskets ... perfect for the sand and surf!

Appearing(s):

Christi Barth
Christi Caldwell
Julia Day
Eileen Dreyer (AKA: Kathleen Korbel)
Elizabeth Essex
Avery Flynn
Maggie Mae Gallagher (AKA: Anya Summers)
Andrew Grey (AKA: Dirk Greyson)
Heidi Hormel
Jessica James
Harper Kincaid
Geri Krotow
Tamra Lassiter
Rae Latte
Ann Lethbridge
Siera London
Janna MacGregor
Stacy McKitrick
Kate Pearce (AKA: Catherine Lloyd)
Ella Quinn
Julie Rowe
Jessica Ruddick (AKA: Jessica Linden)
Dawn Ryder (AKA: Mary Wine)
Joanna Shupe
Tracy Solheim
Teri Anne Stanley
Beth Williamson (AKA: Emma Lang)

Host(s):
Kim Lowe
Kimberly Rocha

Event Date:
Wednesday, May 3, 2017 2:45pm – 3:45pm
Location: LL2/Exhibit/Reader Level
Room: Grand Hall West, 3

SOS-Military Tribute

Our military is the backbone of our country. They pay the price for our freedom through all of their sacrifices. This military tribute is a multi-author-sponsored event to pay a moving tribute to our military and all they have done for our country. This event is open to all. Tables will be decorated by authors representing Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, etc.

Host(s):

KaLyn Cooper
Cristin Harber
Elle James (AKA: Myla Jackson)
Cat Johnson
Kim Lowe
JM Madden
Trish McCallan
Donna Michaels
Megan Mitcham
Caitlyn O'Leary
Ella Quinn
Julie Rowe
Susan Stoker
Natasza Waters
Sabrina York

Event Date:
Thursday, May 4, 2017 12:20pm – 1:20pm
Location: LL1/Ballroom Level
Room: Centennial III

Finding the Balance

Kim Lowe (SOS Aloha Book Reviews) and Kim Rocha (Book Obsessed Chicks Blog) guide authors on finding the right balance between public interaction and private life. We offer tips to effectively launch a book, organically engage readers, and still find time to enjoy the fruits of your success. The results: relaxed authors, increased sales, and satisfied readers.

Speaker(s):
Kim Lowe
Kimberly Rocha

Event Date:
Thursday, May 4, 2017 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Location: LL3/Conference/Industry Level
Room: Lennox

For the month of April, I am giving away a box of books from authors I will meet at RT.  To enter the giveaway,

1.  Leave a comment about your plans for April - anything fun in the works?

2.  Comments are open through Sunday, April 30, 10 pm in Baltimore.  

3.  I will be offline from Monday, May 1 - Sunday, May 7.  

4.  I'll post the winner on Sunday, May 8.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Aloha to Beach Blanket Bingo, Teri Anne Stanley, and A SHOT WITH YOU

Puerto Vallarta
freephotooftheday.com

We are counting down to the RT Booklovers Convention (link) and the Beach Blanket Bingo (link):

Join Annette Funicello (Kim Rocha) & Frankie Avalon (Kim Lowe) for a special edition of Book Cover Bingo. Expect spontaneous singing, dancing, & flirting with lifeguards inspired by the beloved 60s film. Readers will join sun loving authors at their favorite beaches and compete for the book laden gift baskets ... perfect for the sand and surf!

Teri Anne Stanley is joining us for Beach Blanket Bingo.  From her bio (link),

TERI ANNE STANLEY has been writing since she could hold a crayon–though learning to read was a huge turning point in her growth as a writer. Teri’s first stories involved her favorite Saturday morning cartoon characters, followed by her favorite teen idols. She has also authored a recipe column (The Three Ingredient Gourmet), and scientific articles (Guess which was more interesting!). Now she writes fun, sexy romance filled with chaos and havoc, populated by strong, smart women and hunky heroes.

Teri celebrated the print release of A SHOT WITH YOU (link):

Bourbon is in Brandon Morgan’s blood. His family owns the best bourbon brand in the country—or it will be with his marketing genius. And after meeting the fiery daughter of a tequila distillery owner, he’s never been more sure.

His barrels, her tequila. It’s a match made in heaven. But only if he can keep his hands off the owner’s daughter…and his secrets to himself.

Lesa Ruiz will do anything to keep Little Possum afloat, but one look at Brandon’s gorgeous dimples and Lesa knows two things for sure: forever is not in the cards with this man and he’s way too sexy to resist for long.

Well, three things… Brandon is hiding something, and she’ll need to get a lot closer to figure it out and save her family’s legacy. Shots, anyone?

Puerto Vallarta
visitmexico.com

I am giving away a book choice from my convention stash to one randomly selected commenter. To enter the giveaway,

1. Teri Anne is featuring Puerto Vallarta at her table.  Have you visited Puerto Vallarta or any other Mexican getaways?  I have only crossed the border into Tijuana for the day.

2. Comments are open through Sunday, April 2, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3. I'll post the winner on Monday, April 3.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City