It's July which means fireworks and BBQ's and watermelon. But to those of us in Romance Writers of America, it means Conference. I'm already getting excited. The Literacy Signing on Wednesday night is always great fun and an opportunity to meet readers, both those who have read you before and stop by to just tell you how much they enjoyed your last book or how they're looking forward to the next, and new readers who are buying you for the first time. It wasn't too long ago when I was on the other side of that table and I still get star-struck around my favorite authors. And then there are the workshops. I'm not giving one this year and it will be so nice to actually attend a few for a change. I'm really looking forward to that. This year the conference is in Dallas and I'm so excited about getting back to Texas for a little while. I'm going in one night early so that I can spend one night with my brother and his family – I so miss my nieces!
At the end of the month my husband and I head back to Texas, this time where my parents live. I'm having two booksignings while we're down there, but mostly I'm just so excited to get back home for a while. We'll, no doubt, be in Austin for much of that trip eating at some of our favorite restaurants. If you've never been to Austin, you're missing out. They have the best restaurants there, not chains, mind you, independent eateries that are inexpensive, tasty and eclectic. And did I mention the Tex Mex? You can't get that here in the hills of Tennessee and this Texas girl misses her enchiladas!
My husband and I have started having Scrabble tournaments this summer. Just the two of us, but it's a great way to spend the hot, summer nights. So far, I'm the reigning champion, which I can say I'm thoroughly enjoying. Especially since my dear love has a PhD, you'd think he'd be a word wizard. But I think his vast vocabulary and love of big words actually handicaps him in the world of Scrabble. If you haven't had game night at your house in a while, give it a try, it's wonderful entertainment.
I was thrilled to find out that Tempted At Every Turn received a 4 ½ star, Top Pick review from Romantic Times bookreview. Kathe Robin always writes the best review and in this one she even compares me to one of my heroes, Amanda Quick! Two other great reviews came in this past month, so be sure to check them out. And don't miss the latest excerpt of Willow and James' story.
Anne Mallory and I have joined forces again for our monthly contests and you have a chance to win an autographed book from each of us. Be sure to enter both contests to double your chances.
Enjoy your 4th of July, your family vacation and your time at the pool. And don't forget a good book to read. On July 31st, you can pick up a copy of Tempted At Every Turn!
