Thursday Thirteen - 222 - 13 Books on My TBR Pile From the RWA Conference in NY

If you recall my earlier post about attending the Romance Writers of America conference in New York in late June/early July, you'll remember me mentioning the various publisher-hosted booksignings, as well as the literacy fundraiser booksigning event.

Because I had read about this conference book binge on various blogs following previous conferences, I remembered to leave extra room in my suitcase, as well as to pack an empty carry-on.

My nefarious plan worked like a dream.

No extra-weight fees charged at the airport. No books left behind at the hotel room.

But lots and lots of books for me, for my best friend Connie and for my mom.

Here are thirteen of the books currently on my To Be Read pile:


1 - An Unlikely Countess by Jo Beverley

I'm currently reading this one.

I just adore this cover. I had to force myself not to buy it when it first came out this spring, as I was hoping she would be at the conference, where I could get it autographed by her.

And there she was! And so my copy has a lovely signature inside it.




2 - Blood of the Rose by Kate Pearce

Also currently reading this one.

Also really into this cover. It's awesome.










3 - Butterfly Swords by Jeannie Lin

Had been wanting this one for awhile - so glad to buy an autographed copy at the literacy signing.













4 - Sweet Revenge by Andrea Penrose

A cozy Regency mystery featuring chocolate recipes.













5 - The Fallen: Raziel by Kristina Douglas

Love the flames-as-the-letter-'I' in the title and author name.














6 - Ravishing in Red by Madeline Hunter

Another cover I really love. Authentic frock, and I love how she's leaning out of range.













7 - Nightfall by Ellen Connor

Book 1 of a 3-book apocalyptic series.

4 1/2 stars Top Pick from Romantic Times magazine












8 - Personal Protection by Leah Braemel

My first chance to buy my blog buddy's book - which I did, at the literacy signing.













9 - Heiress in Love by Christina Brooke

My first chance to meet my Australian blog buddy In Real Life - and buy her autographed book! Such a joy.














10 - Save the Cat Strikes Back by Blake Snyder

I bought this one at the Barnes and Noble mini store set up in one of the conference rooms. My friend Annette warned me there were only five copies left when she dropped by our hotel room one evening - so I hightailed it there first thing the next morning and snagged one of the last copies.

So far it has already helped with my revisions. Thanks, Annette!






11 - A Season of Seduction

Jennifer used to be a fellow blogger at The Popculturedivas. It was great to meet - and let's face it. Can I resist a Christmas cover like this?














12 - A Secret Affair

Another luscious cover.

And it's Mary Balogh.











13 - No Mercy

This was given to conference goers at one of the luncheons where the keynote speaker was Sherrilyn Kenyon. It was actually one of three of her books waiting for me on my chair in the banquet room.

She gave an inspirational speech that was packed with emotion whenever she spoke of her brother, who was instrumental in setting her along her path as a writer.

And for anyone whose non-writing hurdles can seem overwhelming - this courageous woman is proof that YOU CAN DO IT.