First, let me say that I had an absolutely wonderful time at my local chapter’s writing conference (Silken Sands). I met so many fabulous and friendly people, I listened to some great presentations, I visited with writing friends, and, hey–I was even lucky enough to see dolphins swimming in the water near the conference hotel each day. Very cool.

I thought I’d share some pictures from the conference because, yes, I had my camera and I was snapping like crazy!

In the above picture, we’ve got author Amber Leigh Williams, author Joan Turner, Megan Records (Kensington), Margo Lipschultz (Harlequin), and author Amanda Collins. Do you see that gorgeous beach behind the ladies? Isn’t that awesome?

And in this photo, we’ve got, um, me, and Amber Leigh Williams–this was right after the banquet on Saturday night.

And this is Fran McNabb–the first recipient of the Fran McNabb Service Award. Fran is absolutely wonderful, and, yes, she completely deserved to have an award named after her.

This is me and…Sherrilyn Kenyon!! Have I ever mentioned how much I love her Dark Hunters? And let me say, Sherrilyn is such a gracious lady. She was our speaker at the Saturday night event and I know she inspired everyone in the room.

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The editors who came down for the event–Megan Records from Kensington, Margo Lipschultz from Harlequin, and Deb Werksman from Sourcebooks–they were all such great ladies, too! It was a pleasure to hear their takes on the industry. Literary Agent Caren Johnson was also in attendance–another fun and charming woman.

Hmm…did I say that I had a great time? I did–and can’t wait for 2010–and the next Silken Sands Conference.

Ah, one final picture to share. No, this isn’t a shark–look closer! A dolphin shot from Pensacola Beach:

That’s the title of the workshop I”ll be presenting this Sunday at the Silken Sands Writer’s Conference. Actually, the title has a subheading, too (cause I was being crazy wordy):  “Giving human flaws and characteristics to your non-human characters.”  🙂

So, if I’m not posting much over the weekend, well, it’s because I’m at the conference.  My local RWA Chapter is putting on the event–this is the first time I’ve attended the conference and I’m looking forward to it!  I’ll post pictures next week.

As I did some final prep work for my workshop, I became very curious about the sheer number of paranormal books that are being released out there in bookland. According to the RWA site, paranormals accounted for 9% of romance sales in 2006.  That was a good statistic, but I wanted to know more. So, I posted a message on my FF&P loop, and Michele Hauf, super author and all-around great lady, was kind enough to email me back about her Ultimate Vamp List.  With her list (and it is a most impressive list), Michele attempts to keep track of all the vampire books that are released each year.  She told me her list wasn’t scientific, just a general compilation she’s made–and, hey, I was happy with that.

Here are some of the numbers that Michele was kind enough to give me from her vamp list.  Have you wondered just how many vampire book are being released these days? Well, wonder no more…

1997 – 11 vamp romances pubbed
1998 – 7
1999 – 8
2000 – 16
2001 – 19
2002 – 50
2003 – 70
2004 – 87
2005 – 108
2006 – 131
2007 – 158

Thank you, Michele!  And may I say that as a vampire lover…I really like this upswing.

I am very, very happy to report that Kensington has offered me another three-book contract–I’ll be writing more of my paranormals for them. Yay!!!! This means I get to dig in and become very busy on my WIP, one tentatively titled BETWEEN THE DEVIL AND MIDNIGHT. For those out there who’ve gotten a sneak peek at HOTTER AFTER MIDNIGHT, my WIP is about Niol. 🙂

Did I mention this offer has made me extremely happy?

Is anyone out there planning to attend the big Romantic Times Convention in Pittsburgh?  It’s just a few weeks away…

Unfortunately, I’m not attending this year (dang it!), but I’ve sent lots of promo items–so be on the lookout for my goodies!  I autographed 300 bookmarks, 150 postcards, and 25 brochures that I mailed off yesterday for use in Promo Lane. Hmm…yep, I’ve got a bit of the carpel tunnel going on right now.

But enough about my hand woes…If you are planning to attend RT, you MUST check out the reader party, It’s the Love Shack! (Hosted by Lauren Dane, Anya Bast, Ann Aguirre, and Megan Hart.) Alas, I, too, was supposed to be a hostess, but, even though I’ll be absent, I’m still sending special goodies for that party–goodies you won’t find on  Promo Lane. The party is on Friday, April 18th, from 10-11. Definitely check it out!!

And be sure to check back here soon for some great news I’ve recently received…

A review of HOTTER AFTER MIDNIGHT has been posted at Sensual eCata Romance. Amelia gave the book 5 stars and noted, “With an intriguing plot and vividly thought out scenes, this paranormal story by Cynthia Eden is thoroughly spellbinding. The multilayered storyline is fascinating all the way through, keeping readers totally captivated with the lives of the characters and their distinctively unique personalities.”

You can read the full review here.

Thank you very much, Amelia!