Thank you to all of you who came out to the Romance Rendezvous Book Blast in Cedar Falls, Iowa this last weekend! It was so amazing to be a part of this amazing local event — especially since I have attended so many times as a reader myself. But it meant even more to be attending as a published author this year!
The event itself was so much fun! I got to make new friendships with authors and readers alike. I really hit it off with some special people at the event — particularly my table neighbors and table mate. Originally, I was supposed to only have a half table and share with Victoria Hyla (an AMAZING author) but someone canceled last minute so I got upgraded! And boy am I glad I did, because I may have…over prepared… And it also meant Victoria got her own table as well!
Although I didn’t get to share with Victoria, I still really connected with my table neighbors — Robin Andrews and J.M. Blake. A special shoutout to J.M. Black, who after finding out it was my first signing event, took time to check in with me throughout the event to make sure I was having a good time. It was times like that I felt extra special to have been a part of RRBB.
Not only did I meet some incredible authors (and make new friends) but I also met some fantastic readers as well! I sold multiples of each of my books, which made me feel elated and like I was officially doing this — I was officially a selling author…even typing it now makes me so overwhelmed with joy.
I also want to shout out to my amazing husband (who managed to dodge all chances at a photo) and my amazing best friend (who was also my table assistant) for all they did to help me prepare and be at this event. If you both are reading this, know I honestly and truly couldn’t have done it without you!
As I said, the event was joyous and already has me planning for the next one (which probably won’t be until 2022, sadly). I have more ideas for stories, swag, raffle baskets, and more…assuming it will all fit on my table. I will definitely request a full sized table next year. Having the extra room was nice to spread out and display all the fun things people could grab as giveaways!
By the end, I had not only sold books, but bought many myself. And won a raffle basket from the amazing Ava Cuvay! I can’t wait to go back to the event next year. I will treasure my new friendships and hoard my new pile of books. It was so fun to spend the day with all the readers and get to know everyone better.
Check out the following authors — Ava Cuvay, Beverly Ovalle, Maggie Rivers, CJ Bower, Kristine Plum, Anastasia Austin, Dawn Sullivan, and Sophie Stern.
It was especially touching for me to get a hug and welcome from one of my favorite authors at this event, Tricia Andersen. She was the first author I bought from (her Gods of DC Series and Hallow Brother Series) when I first attended RRBB all those years ago. I have been a big fan of hers for so long, and to have that special moment where she smiled and welcomed me into the author’s circle, it meant so much to me!
Be sure you put the date on your calendar now for next year’s Romance Rendezvous Book Blast (August 20th, 2022 — Cedar Falls, Iowa), as it is sure to be an amazing time with amazing authors and readers! Until then, be sure to check out my latest novel, “A Second Chance”, and keep an eye out for more updates soon! ❤
Stories by Shanna Pikora 