Oct 24, 2011
I had a real blast at the New Jersey Romance Writers Put Your Heart in A Book conference held in Iselin, NJ this past weekend. Not only did I get a chance to present my talk “Unraveling Romantic Suspense” but I was able to sign SENSELESS and MERCILESS at the book fair and attend Sunday’s booksellers luncheon. Talks by Eloisa James, Suzanne Brockmann and Rachel Gibson were wonderful.

Eloisa James was the keynote speaker at the Published Author Retreat.

Sally MacKenzie led the 'Agents and Editors' roundtable discussion at the Published Author Retreat, which also featured wine and chocolate.

Giveaways at Saturday's breakfast included books from Brenda Novak and Suzanne Brockmann.

Here I am at Saturday's booksigning with copies of SENSELESS, MERCILESS and cover art for BEFORE SHE DIES (Feb. 2012).

I dontated a first chapter critique for a budding romantic suspense writer.

Writers Mary Burton, Shirley Hailstock and Terri Brisbin join booksellers at the NJ luncheon.

Victoria Alexander (right) and bookseller.
Oct 2, 2011
Just returned from a great trip to Atlanta, Georgia where I attended the Georgia Romance Writers 29th Annual Moonlight and Magnolias conference. I had the chance to present “Unraveling Romantic Suspense”, sign with some great gals and meet some very welcoming and charming folks. If you’re looking for conferences next year, definitely consider this event.

I usually pack more giveaways than clothes when I attend conferences!

Met up with my Aunt Peggy, who lives in Atlanta, for dinner! It's been far too long since we last visited.

While walking the lovely streets of Decatur I spotted fellow Virginian Thomas Jefferson.

Signed next to fellow author Kate Brady. Great signing with you Kate!

A few of the great GRW gals I met at the conference!


Big thanks to volunteers who made the conference happen!
Sep 26, 2011
For anyone who writes mystery or suspense, you must consider attending the Writers Police Academy held near Greensboro, N.C. Recruits not only got to see a mock hostage situation but were able to hear experts discuss topics such as cold cases, cyber crimes, arson investigation, DNA testing and uncover work.




Jul 1, 2011
Just returned from RWA held in New York this year. The conference hotel was right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Times Square which added lots of great energy to the conference.

The view outside my hotel window.

MB at the mega book signing on Tuesday night. All proceeds were donated to the Literacy Foundation.

I signed next to Shannon Butcher this year. Great time!

Here I am at the Kensington offices during the party they held for their authors.

Jen, Nalini and Carol of Spencerhill Associates at their client party.
Jun 6, 2011

My giveaways were in custom handmade bags from Beth's Bagz at http://www.etsy.com/shop/bethsbagz.

More Mary Burton giveaways stuffed in a Beth's Bagz creation.

A record number 400 readers and authors attended this year's event.

Readers surprised Lori Foster with a cake celebrating her 15 years as a writer.

The cake was delicious and it went fast!

MB with Lori Foster.

Author Ann Christopher and MB hosted an Intimate Chat with readers.

Just for fun...cutouts of some of Lori Foster's characters!
May 16, 2011
I had the chance to go to a pig roast outside of Lexington, VA this past weekend. The weather was great and the views from the mountain top farm were stunning.

By 6 p.m. the pig had been in the smoker for twelve hours.

The peonies were in full bloom.


A collection of old trucks and cars outside the barn.

