It's Thursday, and, by now, everyone who's coming to the national Romance Writers of America conference in San Francisco is probably here. Besides writers--you would expect to see a lot of those here--there are publishers and editors, agents, booksellers, and
distributors. Everyone who has anything to do with the romance industry is here.

The workshops begin today. There are classes geared to every level of writers' skill, as well as those that address the business of professional writing--something for everyone. It’s a day to take care of business...authors meet their
agents, talk to their editors, go to the RWA general meeting.

Informal groups get together to discuss their blogs and any other projects they might be working on together. Writers who only “see” each other online throughout the year make in-person connections with these good friends over breakfast, lunch, or cocktails.

It's an exciting time for all of us to get together, especially those of us from Avon. We practically own the RITA category for regency historical romance, with three of our authors nominated: Shana Galen, Julia Quinn, and Anna Campbell--twice!

We've got Avon authors Laura Lee Guhrke and Julianne MacLean finaling in the historical romance category, with Rachel Gibson, Toni Blake, and Terri Garey rounding out our list of RITA finalists.

It's a whirlwind of a few days for many of us who normally spend our days alone, with just the people in our heads for company. The convention is loud and exciting and, at times, overwhelming. Everyone who has been to previous national
RWA conferences knows how important it is to schedule some “down” time, just to regroup and get ready for the next onslaught of information and sensory stimulation.

And, since my “down” time is over...I guess I should get back to it! :-)

Margo Maguire

THIS JUST IN--tomorrow, Friday, Liate Stehlik (Senior Vice President and Publisher of Avon) & Beverly Jenkins (Avon Author) will appear on TODAY (NBC)...we're told after 8 AM.

PS--be sure to check back throughout the day for more posts from other Avon authors.