We’re all readers. If you weren’t, you wouldn’t be reading this blog! And romance??? What’s better than getting together with other people who love reading romance novels as much as you do?
I love going to romance events with readers and writers alike. And this weekend I attended a great one! For five years now Lori Foster and Dianne Castell host a reader/author get together in West Chester, Ohio. It’s casual, it’s fun–and attendance set a new record this year with about 350 people and 150 raffle baskets!
Here’s a shot of the room. I was at the midway section toward the front so you’re only getting one side.

WOW.
Even better, I won two prizes! Lucky me won beautiful hand-made cards created by Daphne Wedig, and a gorgeous necklace and earrings set made by Kay Sturm. Beautiful! Best of all? The raffle sales made over $6,000 for a local charity for children. That rocks. We had a blast and supported a great cause. Isn’t that what it’s all about?
I also met up with friends I only get to see once a year or so. Here’s a pic of some of us. I first met this group of ladies through Lori’s Bookjunkys group and then in person at this event. Over the years we’ve become great friends. The lady by me? That’s our own Marcie, an eharlequin reader and aspiring writer who hangs out with us over on the Superromance discussion board. So good to see you, Marcie!

I met sisters Jaime and Ashley two years ago at a different event and this year they took my advice to come join the fun. Sitting with these girls and chatting reminded me of why I love events such as this. So many readers hesitate to approach an author for one reason or another, but the reality is we’re friendly, shy ourselves and LOVE talking to our readers. So, don’t be shy! Come chat with us when you can.
Aren’t they adorable? Jaime is now an aspiring author and Ashley is showed her support by attending the event with her big sis as well as encouraging her sister’s raffle ticket addiction! 

Lori did something a little different this year and hired a videographer to come tape the event. Here, Michelle Buonfiglio from Romance: B(u)y the Book is taping a segment for the video. We’re lined up as official Bookjunkys to send a message to those who were unable to attend. The message? “We wish you were here!”

And last but not least, here is a shot of the Superromance raffle basket. Inside were lots and lots of Superromances (33!), chocolates and more. The winner was soooo excited! I had a shot of her with her prize but it didn’t turn out so the basket will have to do.

The Superromance authors are putting together a FABULOUS get together at RWA’s National Conference in Washington, DC. It’s the second year we’ve done this and we’d love to see you there! Do you attend reader/author events? Booksignings? Would you consider going to an event if your favorite authors were there and accessible? What holds you back? What would convince you to come and join the fun?
Kay