Oh, what a lovely time we had at the conference! I quite agree with Marissa that the best
part of conference is spending time together. Sometimes we attended
workshops as a pair; sometimes we divided and conquered, sharing notes with each
other afterward.
Two special moments involved tea.
The first was the Beau Monde mini-conference. As we have
mentioned, the Beau Monde Chapter of Romance Writers of AmericaTM promotes excellence in romantic fiction set
primarily in the Regency period (1811-1820). Marissa and I are both members. The
workshops on travel, Bow Street, rebellious ladies, and inheritances were
excellent, as was the keynote by fabulous author Cheryl Bolen. And after
all that information and inspiration, we were treated to tea, followed by an
elegant soiree in the evening crowned by the announcement of the winners of the
Royal Ascot contest. This contest highlights up-and-coming authors. Remember
the name of Lesli Lent. I predict you’ll be reading great books from her soon.
Friday, Marissa and I had the honor of being invited to tea
by the incomparable John Charles, reviewer extraordinaire. We joined the likes
of Kristan Higgins, Jane Porter, Evelyn Richardson, and Elizabeth Boyle for a
splendid tea at the Brown Palace Hotel. This Italian Renaissance-style hotel in
downtown Denver opened in 1892 and was one of the most expensive and luxurious
hotels then and now. Tea was served with delicious treats, on the traditional
three-tiered tray. Because I have food allergies, the hostess brought me my own
plate. The conversation, my dears, was as delightful as the company and the
fare.
And then we returned to the less rarefied but much beloved
air of our homes, our families, and our books. Stay tuned next week for a very
special announcement on the last from Marissa. Two words: awesome story!
