Thursday, August 24, 2017

READERS RULE! by Brenda Whiteside


In October, I’m attending the InD’Scribe Conference in Burbank, California for the first time. I’m a touch…hmmm…nervous, no…anxious, no…I’m not sure what. Maybe a little of both. This is a conference to recognize and introduce authors who are published through small houses or self-published to readers. This should be a lot of fun. I love to meet readers. 

Okay, we’re all readers, yet readers who don’t write are the most fun to meet. Not that I don’t like meeting reader-authors, but someone who already writes isn’t mystified by the whole process. Readers give us a chance to talk about our creative process, brag about our stories, and introduce them to our characters who are real enough to us. I’m not an introvert so I enjoy the interaction. 

My trepidation comes with the hype on this conference, second only to the academy awards. There’s the award ceremony when the RONE Award winners will be announced (of which I am a finalist). Evening gowns are a welcomed mode of dress. (I don’t even own a dress…unless you count a couple of bridesmaid dresses that have hung in the back of my closet for a few years) One night, there is a costume ball and the theme is medieval. I am just not a dress-up kind of person. I don’t even do Halloween. Then there is a Rave Table Luncheon. This is an extra cost where an author buys a special table to host for their fans. I can only picture a disastrous ending…me at my table all alone. I’m not exactly Brenda Novak (who will be there) YET. 

I bought a long black skirt which I’ll wear with a T shirt type top and jewelry. That’s as dressy as I’ll get. I’m not dressing up for the costume night either. I’ll go as myself. And I’ll eat lunch with whoever I sit down with. In spite of my rebel ways, I plan to have fun. Fellow authors, Rolynn Anderson and J L Wilson will be there too, which will make it all the more fun. Haven’t seen either in years.

I encourage all and anyone to attend. It's going to be so much fun.

Oh, and wish me luck. The Power of Love and Murder is up for a RONE in the Romantic Suspense category. No, I don’t have a speech prepared to thank all the little people who helped me achieve my dream. I’ll wing it!

The Power of Love and Murder, RONE Award Finalist

For thirteen years, Penny Sparks has managed to hide from the political powers who murdered her family. When she unwittingly exposes her true identity, not only is she marked for death, but the people closest to her risk meeting the same fate.

Jake Winters is out of rehab and coming to grips with his demons. When he meets his sister’s roommate, Jake believes Penny might be that someone who can help him find life after rock star status…until her secrets blow up his world.

With a government agent turned hit man closing in on her, Penny and Jake race to expose the presidential contender behind the murders of her family. Even if they win the race with death, the murder that stands between them could end their hope for a new life.

12 comments:

Leah St. James said...

Sounds like a fabulous time, Brenda! I think readers will be thrilled to meet the awards finalists. I would! I wish I could be there, but it's a loooong way from southeastern Virginia and we've blown all our vacation money on Son No. 2's wedding. :-) That conference is definitely on my bucket list of things to do though, along with meeting the other Roses!

I just finished THE ART OF LOVE AND MURDER, BTW, and loved it! THE POWER OF LOVE AND MURDER is next on my list. Wishing you much luck with the awards. Have fun, enjoy the experience...and make sure to tell us all about it!

Andrea Downing said...

Having been at the first (with Rolynn, who was a terrific pal there) when it was in Vegas, I'd say just relax Brenda, and have fun. We didn't do the costume ball either but there was plenty to keep us busy. Have a great time--enjoy yourself!

Diane Burton said...

Brenda, you will have so much fun, esp. with Rolynn and JL. Wishing all of you good luck and happy times.

Jannine Gallant said...

Have a GREAT time. What is it with themes and dress up at conventions? I'm determined to go to RT in Reno next May, and their theme party is peace, love and romance. Pack your bell bottoms. A little easier than medieval, but still! Best of luck winning that RONE!

Rolynn Anderson said...

Brenda, maybe you and I can come as Medieval peasants. My yard work clothes would do if I dirty them up a little more :-) As you know, I'm working to get readers to your signing table with the Scavenger Hunt (we have 51 signed up and a $100 prize for the winner of the Hunt). InD'Tale is young and small in the world of conferences, and I'm glad to be part of its upbringing. We still have the chance to develop it into what we want it to be...to gather writers and readers in the best forum possible. I'm glad you're along for the journey! Burbank or bust!

Brenda whiteside said...

Oh, Leah, I know how weddings can hit the pocket book. Maybe I'll see you next year. And thanks so much for reading the books! Glad you enjoy.

Brenda whiteside said...

Thanks, Diane and Andrea. I know it will be fun.

Jannine, I'd love to do RT. If there's anyway possible, I'll see you there. I could do bell bottoms and love beads!

You rock doing that, Rolynn. It's a great idea. Yes, Burbank or bust!

Alicia Dean said...

Sounds like a great time! I'm sure you won't be all alone at your table. Best of luck with your finals. Can't wait to hear all about it!

Alison Henderson said...

I love to meet readers, too. The costume events? Not so much. The three of you should have a great time. I hope the conference is a huge success, and best of luck with the RONE!

Brenda whiteside said...

Thanks, Alicia and Alison. I'll report back.

Margo Hoornstra said...

First of all, pulling for you and the RONE. I agree about the costumes/dressing up. Your outfit sounds fine. Ally and I met face to face for an hour long lunch and had a great time, you three will have a blast. Enjoy!

Brenda whiteside said...

Thanks, Margo. I'm looking forward to it!