Authors After Dark

AADNOLA Questions Round 2: Answers!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:05:00 +0000

I figured I should address other concerns that seem to be popping up (and Incidentally, if people would contact me personally and ask about these things, hard feelings wouldn’t happen, as we could have an adult conversation about it--- I am not an ogre, I do listen to people’s suggestions and incorporate when we can to help this con evolve and grow with the ever growing and changing needs.)

I. Why does AAD have an Author Cap:

AAD has author caps because of three things: 1. Author to reader ratio, 2: Space allotment, and 3: Bookseller ordering. All three are taken into account when deciding the cap for authors so that it’s fair and people don’t get screwed.

Every convention has featured authors and author caps, even if they are identified by different labels.

At RT, those authors on panels, that have events and parties… they are FEATURED AUTHORS.

At the RAW event, it’s the authors promoted on the publicly posted list.

At RomCon, it’s the authors that, again, do the parties and the events.

EC’s RomantiCon? It’s the authors that are slated to do events, workshops and parties.

Lori Foster weekend? The official list is put up of “Attending” authors. Even Lori Foster's event explains that the list is not generated by favoritism, but by those who have attended all or most past events, contributed largely to the event, or are part of the attendees “Most wanted” authors – meaning the readers have requested them.

Authors After Dark is no different, simply referring to the authors on panels and doing events with an official label of FEATURED AUTHORS.

THIS HAPPENS AT EVERY CON.

At no time anywhere at any of these (that I am aware of but correct me if I’m wrong) are just attending authors not allowed to promote their work or books. AAD is NO DIFFERENT. Those attendees not on the Featured Author list who are authors will have have plenty of opportunity to network, talk up their books, hand out swag during those conversations and Meet Readers.

AAD is just upfront about it. We try to be fair, and wish we could have everyone be a FA, but from year to year, space changes and as AAD’s focus is the readers, we have to change the author acceptance to fit our space allotment.

(And just an FYI, Savannah will have an author cap of 100 authors for the Featured Author spot because the space we have allows for it.)

AAD is the ONLY con that offers the spots to everyone that registers as an author. Everyone gets the same email about being a featured author (Until we close the acceptance because we have hit our cap.Yes, AAD is upfront with what we want for the con because it does nobody any favors to not be concise and honest about what we expect from the authors we have as Featured. Again, ALL CONS ARE LIKE THIS. For AAD, we ask for things that HELP YOUR CAREER --- good promo, books from your publishers, participation in events that keep your name in the forefront of the reader’s minds.

II. Why don’t you take Paper promo?

The reason we don’t take paper promo is in Philadelphia (2010) we threw away 9 bags of garbage that was ALL paper promo, one entire bag was “trading cards.” Attendees were taking the paper out of their bags and not even looking at it and tossing it in the trash. So, in a bid to help your wallet and the environment, we have limited the paper promo.

Yes, I know it’s cheaper and YES I know it’s easier to get that stuff when you are not getting huge royalty checks--- but I also know that if you plan correctly you can have a LOT of good promo and not spend an arm and a leg. It takes a little diligence on your part, but it is possible.

III. The issue with hotel rooms

AAD’s NOLA hotel has MORE singles then doubles. They did not tell us this when we signed the contract and ASSUMED (and you know what happens when you assume) that since it was a romance con (IE; they thought Dating and such) that Singles would be fine. When it was straightened out, they gave us EVERY DOUBLE IN THE HOTEL. Their room availability is NOT AAD’s fault and we have been working hard to make sure we get all 400 attendees in the hotel.

Some people were upset that they had to switch rooms. Please note that we ASKED you to, but that didn’t mean you had to. To those of you that did, THANK YOU, because you helped us get this sticky situation rectified.

Because of the issues this year with room options, we made sure that Savannah has MORE doubles (which they do: 85% of the rooms in the hotel are doubles) and the suites are open to our use and EXTREMELY cheap. Those of you that have moved your rooms this year without issue, we have some cool options for you for next year if you attend so be sure to contact us about it.

It saddens me that we have to talk about this yet again… all this information is actually in the FAQ’s in some fashion, and I hope that seeing it explained further will quell any issues you may have had with this. I know I can’t please everyone. If these answers aren’t satisfactory enough for you, then, well, you will be missed at the con.

Callum: The Cursed Clan NEW RELEASE

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Schroeder) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000

YAY! I am so excited about this release. I came up with the idea of The Cursed Clan over four years ago. After trying to get it published everywhere, and having deals fall through, I decided the best thing to do was self-publish the book. It is truly a book of my heart. I have not written a lot of paranormal, so taking on an idea that spans five books was daunting, but I could not let the story go.

For those of you attending AAD, this is one of the two books I will be featuring at my Cursed n Blood Affair. By Blood: Desire is the other book, a Victorian vamp that will release this July, and I will be signing both books at AAD in print. Make sure to check out THE CURSED CLAN website!

CALLUM

AMAZON
ARe
B and N
SMASHWORDS

Will desire be the answer or the ruin of an entire clan?

The Cursed Clan, Book 1

As Laird, Callum Lennon feels he has always failed to protect his cousins. Callum’s impulsiveness caused the death of his father and the experience has scarred not only his body, but his soul. From that point on, he made sure to always go with the more logical choice in every matter. When his younger cousin Angus finds clues that might help break the curse, Callum begrudgingly hires Phoebe Chilton to investigate. Callum doesn’t like bringing outsiders into their family affairs. Their life would become fodder for the tabloids if anyone were to find out about the curse. It doesn’t help that the instant he meets Dr. Chilton he’s attracted. But, he doesn’t really have a choice because she might be their last hope.
An expert in archeology, Phoebe has always been dwarfed by her parents’ shadow. Their high standards had her in college by thirteen and earning a second PhD by twenty-two. But her career and her broken marriage have left her needing something more than just diplomas and degrees. She wants to prove that her interest in legends, especially Celtic legends, is as important as her parents’ work. When the Lennon family contacts her, she sees the opportunity to win a massive research grant. With a long-time rival breathing down her back, she jumps at the Lennons’ offer her, hoping it will ensure her the grant. But uncovering the Lennon family secrets, and her attraction to Callum, could prove more than she can handle.
Forces outside the family are determined to ensure that they fail. When an old enemy threatens both the well being of the clan and the fragile new love, Callum will have to choose between believing his mind or his heart.

The sexy paranormal world of the Cursed Clan is so unique and compelling it's destined to enthrall readers and win hearts. -Shayla Black, NYT Bestselling author

Read an EXCERPT!

January's Featured Authors Spotlight Recap

noreply@blogger.com (Carolline Greene) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:54:00 +0000

It’s hard to believe we are a week into February already! How was January, did you make your resolutions and are you sticking to them? The AAD NOLA Bloggers have kicked off the New Year with some pretty great interviews with our Featured Author’s. Just in case you missed any of the Spotlights last month here is a recap:

The Qwillery

Rosalie Lario http://qwillery.blogspot.com/2012/01/authors-after-dark-spotlight-interview.html

Beth Williamson http://qwillery.blogspot.com/2012/01/authors-after-dark-spotlight-interview_15.html

Julia Talbot http://qwillery.blogspot.com/2012/01/authors-after-dark-spotlight-interview_22.html

T.J. Michaels http://qwillery.blogspot.com/2012/01/authors-after-dark-spotlight-interview_29.html

Red Hot Books

Pamela Palmer http://www.redhotbooks.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-pamela-palmer.html

Melissa Schroeder http://www.redhotbooks.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-giveaway-melissa.html

Kris Cook http://www.redhotbooks.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-giveaway-kris-cook.html

Darynda Jones http://www.redhotbooks.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-darynda-jones.html

Beth Williamson http://www.redhotbooks.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-giveaway.html

BookWenches

Rosalie Lario http://www.bookwenches.com/aad12rosalielario.htm

Mia Watts / Katie Blu http://www.bookwenches.com/aad12miawatts.htm

Trinity Blacio http://www.bookwenches.com/aad12trinityblacio.htm

Kristen Painter http://www.bookwenches.com/aad12kristenpainter.htm

Yummy Men & Kick Ass Chicks

Carolyn Crane http://yummymenandkickasschicks.com/?p=12042

SA Price http://yummymenandkickasschicks.com/?p=12078

Jessica Jarman http://yummymenandkickasschicks.com/?p=12192

Kelly Meding http://yummymenandkickasschicks.com/?p=12257

Feature Post AAD http://yummymenandkickasschicks.com/?p=12282

MamaKitty Reviews

Joey W Hill http://mamakittyreviews.com/?p=3085

Kris Norris http://mamakittyreviews.com/?p=3204

Brynn Paulin http://mamakittyreviews.com/?p=3225

That's What I'm Talking About

Kris Cook http://www.twimom227.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-kris-cook.html

Tilly Green http://www.twimom227.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-tilly-green.html

PJ Schnyder http://www.twimom227.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-pj-schnyder.html

What Book is That?

Kristen Painter http://www.whatbookisthat.com/2011/11/aad-author-spotlight-kristen-painter.html

Tilly Greene http://www.whatbookisthat.com/2011/11/aad-author-spotlight-tilly-greene.html

PJ Schnyder http://www.whatbookisthat.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-pj-schnyder.html

Stephanie Julian http://www.whatbookisthat.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-stephanie-julian.html

Katie Reus http://www.whatbookisthat.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-katie-reus-with.html

Good Choice Reading

Melissa Schroeder http://www.goodchoicereading.com/2012/01/author-spotlight-guest-post-giveaway-by.html

Kristen Painter http://www.goodchoicereading.com/2012/01/aad-author-spotlight-guest-post-by.html

Smexy Books

Stacey Kennedy http://www.smexybooks.com/2012/01/aad-spotlight-stacey-kennedy-and-giveaway.html

Carolyn Crane http://www.smexybooks.com/2011/12/aad-spotlight-carolyn-crane-and-giveaway.html

Mari Freeman http://www.smexybooks.com/2011/11/aad-author-spotlight-mari-freeman-and-giveaway.html

Eliza Gayle http://www.smexybooks.com/2011/11/aad-spotlight-eliza-gayle-and-giveaway.html

Melissa Schroeder http://www.smexybooks.com/2011/11/aad-spotlight-melissa-schroeder.html

Lara Adrian http://www.smexybooks.com/2012/01/aad-spotlight-lara-adrian-and-giveaway.html

Book Faery

Katie Reus http://book-faery.blogspot.com/2012/01/aad-nola-author-spotlight-katie-reus.html

Kristen Painter http://book-faery.blogspot.com/2012/01/aad-nola-author-spotlight-kristen.html

Boone Brux http://book-faery.blogspot.com/2012/01/aad-nola-author-spotlight-boone-brux.html

Diana Castilleja http://book-faery.blogspot.com/2012/01/aad-nola-author-spotlight-diana.html

Why #AADNOLA doesnt work with cover models (comments welcome)

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:44:00 +0000

Authors After Dark has been challenged recently about the policy on no cover models. I figured I would enlighten everyone on why I have chosen this, including my reasons and stipulations.

AAD is about the readers getting to know the authors they love, talking about the books the author writes and getting immersed in the characters, the writing and the stories.

AAD is also a nonprofit convention and we work to keep it cheap so that readers don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to meet the authors they love and still have money to buy books… the one thing that brings us together. And everyone (including myself) pays to attend this convention. AAD doesn’t make money off it, so comped registrations (for contests or auctions) are paid BY ME out of POCKET. Agents, editors, publishers, authors, readers, everyone pays the same price and I focus on their feedback.

Author feedback to AAD indicates that many feel cover models detract from their time with the readers. They are paying for the privilege they deserve the spotlight.

Reader feedback to AAD indicates that they love the programing and the atmosphere of AAD, their main priority being to spend time with their favorite authors.

Cover models take away from that. Now you don’t have to agree with me, but that is how I feel. Cover models are what’s on the front of your favorite book, not what is inside, and often times don't match the actual characters in the book. At AAD, we focus on the words inside, because really that’s what we are selling, our WORK. Of course, a good cover attracts new readers to purchase, but it's the story that stays with a reader.

With so many conventions rocking the cover model thing, AAD doesn’t have to, and I prefer not to. Safety and comfort are first on my list when it comes to my attendees. After seeing first hand at other cons the inappropriate behavior that can result, I decided it wasn’t what I wanted at AAD, and both authors and publishers have respected it. Readers have appreciated that the focus stays on their opportunities to get to know their favorite authors.

AAD’s programming and focus isn’t developed with Cover Models in mind. Programming is and has always been spotlighting the author and their work, not the pretty candy on the cover. Often times, authors have little or no say in the actual cover art and the cover model has never read the book. Instead, AAD does include programming featuring cover artists so readers can talk to the artist about how they designed the covers with the author's work in mind.

AAD has fast become a con readers want to attend because of its programming and price, if there has been a contingent of readers that go to see the cover models, they visit different conventions.

While this might seem harsh, it has worked for us the past three years, going on #4 and beyond with our attendance growing from 50 to the need to cap registration at 400 attendees. Publishers that work with cover models respect our policies and most authors do as well (and if they don’t, well they just don’t attend.) AAD is not for everyone, so we aren’t offended if people decide that because of these policies they will not attend. Its nothing personal to the models, but in this industry the spotlight should always be on the author when it comes to the reader, because without the author, those models wouldn’t have a place to show their talents.

For anyone that writes Steampunk...(not #AADNOLA releated)

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:36:00 +0000

Hey everyone!

Steampunk's worlds Fair is coming up in May in NJ and I'm helping with some of the insanity that is the goodies, events and panels. So the staff is doing a HUGE absinthe thing, and Authors attending, will be there in force LOL. We have decided to do Green frosted bags for the event, and hopefully fill them with goodies, promo and maybe books.

So Since you guys pretty much all write Steampunk, I'm asking you to help me help YOU by getting your promo into the hands of people who LOVE the genre. We are going to do 100 bags, filled with swag, and probably if we can swing it, 3-5 gift baskets to win while at the event.

If you would like to send anything, I would be grateful! If your interested, PLEASE let me know ASAP so I can send you my addy to get it to me. we will take anything, from bookmarks to flyers to awesome promo to books!

Thanks guys!

Stella

Please welcome to #AADNOLA's staff...

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 13:25:00 +0000

Carolline Greene!

Carolline will be running out PR, and online social media (including the twitter and posting here on this blog when we get overly busy!) and will be handling all the press for the event from NOLA.

So Say Hi, and good luck (cuz she is so going to need it... LOL!)

#AADNOLA room availability updates!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 23:46:00 +0000

We are close to closing everything down people! OMG and its only feb!

As of today, we have:
8/5: 2 rooms available
8/6: 4 rooms available
8/7: 2 rooms available
8/8: 10 rooms available
8/9: 12 rooms available
8/10: 12 rooms available
8/11: 13 rooms available
8/12: 27 rooms Available
8/13: 14 rooms available

So... Get your tookus in gear if you wanna come (and if you register and cant get the days you want, EMAIL ME ASAP! I cant promise anything but the eariler you register the better choices you have!)

Also, all rooms are KING ONLY!

So thats it guys!

S

TICKETS, PARTIES & FIELDTRIPS #AADNOLA

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:18:00 +0000

Hello Attendees!

So we are just about into feb and wow are things really trucking along well! Authors have been finalizing things, Schedules have been slowly coming together and we are 92% sold out of the con! I’m SO PLEASED about this, thank you everyone who is attending.

So we have lots to do this coming month, and I know you guys can’t wait to hear what’s going on… so I figured I would give ya all the skinny.

So since there’s so much going on, and certain events are going to be limited attendance, we are going to put “tickets” up on the website. These tickets will be for ALL the events (except Panels) so we can get a clearer head count of who is deciding to do what at the con (and it also helps us plan for next year as well!)

These are the events you will have to get “tickets” for:

Cursed N Blood Affair with Melissa Schroeder

Karaoke With Jennifer Armintrout and Resplendence Publishing

Late Night sweets with Jeaniene Frost and Pamela Palmer

Workshop: Worldbuilding with Kristen Painter

Workshop: Direct Your Book: Theatrical Techniques to a Blockbuster Novel with Leanna Renee Hieber

Worshop: Under the hood: Writers reveal their five favorite craft tricks! With Carolyn Crane and friends

Workshop: #romancekills With Erin Kellison and friends

Echoes of New Orleans Masquerade Ball

Wicked Bliss Chocolate Indulgence with Sophie Oak and Shayla Black

Roaring 20’s Event with Secret Cravings Publishing

Saturday reception with Samhain Publishing

Author Pub Crawl with 12 authors/ 12 bars!

ALL Fieldtrips with authors: Erin McCarthy, Suzanne Johnson, Adrian Phoenix, Jaye Wells, Kelly Keaton and others

Please be aware that tickets are FREE, you just need to go and Grab one on the site so you will be counted as attending that event. Also, Not all tickets will go up at the same time, so as to be fair. We will be sending out a NEWSLETTER via all registered attendees on what days the tickets go up. THE ONLY WAY YOU WILL KNOW ABOUT EVENTS IS IF YOU ARE REGISTERED!!!! (so that means, if you are on the fence about registering, get your tookus in gear, cuz we will not and cannot hold spots for anyone- registered or NOT.)

Some events will have 400 available spots, some will have as low as 10, so be vigilant! We will put the High number events up soon, but the lower number ones will not go up till we have hit 98% registered! So get those registrations in!

HELP WANTED FOR #AADNOLA

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:53:00 +0000

Wanted: Social Media and Media liaison for Authors After Dark

As AAD grows by literally leaps and bounds, we are now in need of a media liaison that will allow Stella to focus on the con, while ensuring her things are not going awry.

Duties to include but not limited to:

v Updating Twitter both before and during the convention

v Monitoring the forum for questions and new attendees

v Monitoring the blog for questions and comments

v Re-tweeting info about AAD

v Tweeting AAD Featured Author Spotlights and posting summary of spotlights to AAD blog monthly

v Monitoring AAD Facebook Page for questions and comments

v Fielding requests for interviews for staff

v Correspondence with TV/ Radio for city we are in

v Correspondence with specialty groups and events

v Liaison to visiting media at the convention proper

v Working with Hotel to ensure visiting media is taken care of

v Working with host city CVB for leads and scheduling

v On-site escort and liaison for visiting media during the Authors After Dark Convention

Applicants must have a sunny disposition, good people, organizational and networking skills and above all, TIME to devote to this. This is a full time endeavor, and the applicant must be online often to work this.

Applicant will work closely with Stella through the year till August, and at the con will be in charge of the visiting media (host city TV/ Radio/ Print). Applicant will be the face of Authors After Dark’s PR department for the next 2 years (NOLA and SAVANNAH).

Compensation: Perks package negotiable. AAD is non profit and no monetary compensation will change hands. Present your wish list for compensation during application.

All interested applicants: Letter of intent, including experience, hours online a day, number of hours a week you can devote to this endeavor, any pertinent credentials and compensation package.

Position starts Feb 20^th and runs till the end of Savannah 2013’s Event.

All applicants will be reviewed ASAP and a decision will be made soon after.

Contact: Stella Price- blueflamesabove@yahoo.com before Feb 3^rd.

I have received a few questions about this posting since it went up so I figured I would amend the listing so that all questions so far asked would be addressed:

Ideally we would like a blogger or reader to do this that has no ties to any other company in the industry or author because we feel only an impartial person can do this job in the spirit that AAD is intended.
YES, we are willing to train for this year, and YES perks would start for this year.
We would prefer a person that is not part of any other con's staff for this position, as AAD is a full time event and we cannot have split loyalties (split loyalties, at least in My (Stella's) experience lead to someone's important business being put on the back burner. You are either 100% committed to this endeavor, or your not.)
If you already work for a publisher, please do not offer your services. While its flattering, and awesome, it just wouldn't work. Publisher should ALWAYS come first and we respect that.
NO, I am not looking for someone that is an assistant, putting the work off on their own staff. This position is for ONE PERSON that is committed to doing the job and working with myself, and the AAD staff.

Thanks everyone!

the #AADNOLA final push contest

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 16:18:00 +0000

So we are in the home stretch! AAD is VERY close to selling out, and we would like that to happen sooner rather then later. We had originally thought to do this contest in Feb, but with less then 71 spots left, we figured now was the time!

So welcome to the final push contest!

Here’s the deal:

Between today, January 15 and Feb 15^th, One month, we hope to acquire a SOLD OUT on our Event Brite page and start a waitlist. So we have come up with one HELL of a contest to get the job done.

So starting today, everyone that registered will get entered in to win one of our fabulous prizes—with TWO entries. (Note: all people already attending are entered to win as well… Authors, bloggers, book club people are industry).

Winners will be chosen at the Welcome event At AAD NOLA and announced therein.

So what can you win?

Grand Prize:

Registration for AAD Savannah 2013 (MoC MaryJanice Davidson)(does not include room or travel)

Other prizes include:

1 hour drinks with Leanna Renee Hieber for you and 2 of your friends

1 hour drinks or Coffee with Yasmine Galenorn

A prize basket of books from Jade Lee/ Kathy Lyons

2 Autographed Books by Lacie Nation

Breakfast with Stella and Audra Price at Café Du Monde

A gift package from PJ Schnyder

And others!

So get your registration in! that’s all you have to do! Spread the word and good luck to everyone!

News From the Front: AAD's 2013 Master of Ceremonies!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:58:00 +0000

So I know everyone has been really excited about NOLA, I am too, and all the planning is coming along nicely, so nicely that of course we have started doing prelims for the 2013 event... and wanted to unveil a sneak peek to you today!

So who is ready?

AAD 2013 will be held in Savannah, GA On August 15-18th 2013 at the Savannah Riverfront Marriott (Which we have amazing rates for including Cheap rates for EVERY suite in the hotel!). They are offering us some lovely perks including 10% of all spa treatments and early check in. We will talk more about the hotel and the awesome it is giving us soon though, so stay tuned.

Now... about that Master of Ceremonies...

The 2013 Authors After Dark Master of Ceremonies is none other than

MaryJanice Davidson!!!

We are SO excited to have MJD as our MoC (giggle) for 2013 and cant wait to talk about the awesome we are planning for Savannah! So? Who is excited?????

(ooh and just a little FYI: The Savannah board of tourism is coming to AAD NOLA on sunday to get you guys pumped for Savannah, order raffle prizes and Savannah goodie bags!)

AAD hotel room updates

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:03:00 +0000

OK, in trying to keep everyone abreast of the events hotel issues, I figured I would give you guys the heads up on the hotel. We are close to selling out. heres the deal:

We have 107 spots left open for AAD NOLA in registrations.

In reservations we have this amount of rooms (by Day) available:

8/5: 2
8/6: 0
8/7: 0
8/8: 10
8/9: 61
8/10: 61
8/11: 61
8/12: 38
8/13: 17
8/14: 0
5/15: 0

Now what is left are ALL KINGS. This means that 2 people in one room will need to share a bed (and kings frankly are HUGE, I sleep in one and don't even realize Joe is in bed with me LOL). The reason for this is that the hotel only has kings LEFT in the hotel at all. We have sold out of Doubles.

So this means you NEED to get your room reservations in ASAP, and contact me with issues. Also, if you are reading this, and you HAVE reserved a double, only have 2 people and don't mind sleeping in a king, please email me ASAP. I can guarantee your "sacrifice" will be noted and rewarded. All kings will get a roll away if needed as well.

AAD Reading Challenge!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:51:00 +0000

the lovely Midnyte Reader has set up a LOVELY AAD Reader Challenge all on her own! its been amazing to see people jump on board for this, and we wanted to give YOU the option to do it as well... So heres the deal...

In anticipation of Authors After Dark 2012 in New Orleans, I created the AAD 2012 Reading Challenge. The goal of this challenge is to let readers, whether you are going to AAD 2012 or not, get better acquainted with some of the authors who will be attending this event.

Sometimes I go to conferences that feature authors who I am unfamiliar with. Then, when I read their books later I want to kick myself for not reading their work sooner, so I could have talked to them about their stories, gotten a book signed or just gushed properly.

I asked Stella Price, the organizer of Authors After Dark if there would be any issues with me hosting this challenge and she not only gave me the green light and is very supportive, but asked the AAD 2012 website designer Robin from RLD Design to to make me a button! Thank you Stella and Robin!

Guidelines:
•Although AAD 2012 takes place in August, this challenge will run from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012.
•Books must be read and reviewed in 2012.
•You can join at anytime during the year.
•Anyone can join (not just book bloggers).

To Join:
•Write a post about this challenge on your blog with a link back to this post.
•Include a list of the AAD 2012 books you hope to read in 2012. You can check out the authors on the AAD 2012 website HERE. (Then click on the authors link.) Please note that your list is not written in stone! You can change it at anytime.
•Grab the button and add it to your post or sidebar.
•Sign up on Mr. Linky below. Please enter the link to the AAD 2012 Challenge post on your blog, not your main blog page. (If you link to your main blog page, unfortunately it will be deleted.) If you do not have a blog, you can just sign up.

To post a review:
• This is just the sign up page, not where you will link up your reviews. To link up your Authors After Dark 2012 Reading Challenge reviews click HERE. When you write your review it would be great if you could mention that it is part of the AAD 2012 Reading Challenge.
•If you don't have a blog: You can link to Goodreads, Amazon, Shelfari, etc. OR, instead of linking to a review you can leave a comment below with your thoughts.

To find out more about Authors After Dark 2012 visit their website!

Check out Midnyte Reader on her blog and join up... and SHHH! not only is this an awesome challenge, but you could maybe get some sweet prizes from AAD itself for participating...

December Featured Author Spotlights

noreply@blogger.com (pj schnyder) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 12:33:00 +0000

Mistletoe Madness Blog Hop

noreply@blogger.com (pj schnyder) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:01:00 +0000

Thank you for visiting our stop on the Mistletoe Madness Blog Hop. This giveaway is now closed.

Congrats to LibraryLady on winning the AAD prize package!

Happy Holidays, everyone!

AAD 2012 in New Orleans is filling up incredibly fast. We're taking a breather from planning and preparations to celebrate the holidays and wish you all a safe and happy holiday season.

In the meantime, Authors After Dark is pleased to offer this prize pack as part of the Mistletoe Madness Blog Hop. Included is an exclusive Authors After Dark tote bag and various print books and swag from the fantastic authors of AAD 2011.

To enter to win, please leave a comment and let us know what's at the top of your holiday wish list. This giveaway is open to international entries.

Also, remember to visit the Contests page to enter to win the Grand Prize!

Thank you for visiting us on the blog hop. Have fun and good luck in the other giveaways!

D'Arc Side Doings...

noreply@blogger.com (Bianca D'Arc) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 15:34:00 +0000

My turn to blog again! Yay! The past month has been a busy one. I had a new novella come out a few weeks ago, the first in a new series of very hot space opera romance called KING OF SWORDS. It's available now on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and in a few other places including Smashwords, which has a choice of formats. Within the next week or so, book 2 in the novella series will be released. It's called KING OF CUPS and picks up where the first book left off.

I've also been writing a bit. Working on a new Dragon Knights book for release sometime next summer. We're planning a re-release of all the Dragon Knights books, with new covers. The first two books in the series might also be lengthened a bit and re-edited. When they were first released in print form, they were short enough to be packaged together in a single print volume, but that's proven very confusing for readers. The re-release will hopefully alleviate some of that confusion and I might finally get the really sexy covers I've been hoping for! LOL.

I'm also in the middle of edits for two paranormal stories right now. The first is a novella called THE PURRFECT STRANGER that will be released by ARe sometime around Valentine's Day. The hero is a werecougar - a cousin of Matt Redstone, a popular character from earlier in my Tales of the Were series. The heroine is a failed witch. It's a very light paranormal with a few amusing bits and a whole lot of love. I hope it will bring you some smiles on Valentine's Day. ;)

The second thing I'm working on is my April release from Samhain, titled BROTHERHOOD OF BLOOD: WOLF HILLS. It's a paranormal novel focusing on the last of the study group friends featured in the other Brotherhood stories. We're just starting the editing process now and I expect to start seeing cover art soon. I'll post it on my site as soon as it's finalized.

Other than that, I'm working on a little surprise for my blog over the 12 Days of Christmas - which technically BEGIN on December 25th. With a little luck, I'll get it together in time and we can have some fun over on my blog during the festive season between Christmas and New Year. Come on over and check it out! :)

Bianca D'Arc
Come over to The D'Arc Side... www.biancadarc.com

BOOKCLUBS!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 16:51:00 +0000

Are you in a Book club and Coming to AAD NOLA? PLEASE FILL THIS OUT (Cuz Stella's Book club database she was creating on her compy went missing... and this is safer!)

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dDlKNWRTOHRsaWlUbngxcnBHS1RXbUE6MQ

Thanks guys! This is going to be SO COOL!

A question that keeps coming up... Answered!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:39:00 +0000

So we have been monitoring the new form we put up and a question came up about “Authors attending AAD that aren’t Featured” and having a list of them. I figured I would address this early as it is bound to come up more and more.

Please note that every author that registered for AAD was sent an email explaining the responsibilities, commitments, and perks of Featured Authors at AAD and given the opportunity to become a Featured Author. It was their choice to participate as a Featured Author or not.

Because of this, the only attendees designated as “Authors” by the con are the ones that are Featured Authors, and will be designated as such with an Author Ribbon. Attendees that are not featured authors will not have a ribbon, but will have an AUTHOR designation on their badge so you will still be able to identify them, talk with them and socialize.

The Featured Authors are those who committed to attend AAD and contribute to panels, special events and activities, making themselves available to the readers. Thus, we can focus on promoting them based on their commitment and also their contribution to the great prizes, swag and books the attendees will enjoy at AAD NOLA. We do not have the same from other authors and would not be able to maintain an accurate list of those attending the convention due to cancellations, conflicts in schedule or other unforeseen circumstances.

Updates from Stella: AAD 2012!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 23:10:00 +0000

1. AAD is now full for featured authors! There is a wait list but with all the hubbub about being a FA, I don't think we will be dipping into it.

2. Balcony rooms: PLEASE NOTE: Join the AAD forum, where we will give you info on how to request a balcony room for 2012. ALSO PLEASE NOTE: Just because you asked for one when you got your reservations doesn't mean that you will get one. We have a limited amount of balcony rooms, and everyone that gets one MUST SIGN A WAIVER that states that anything thrown off the balcony, all fines and fees will be absorbed by the attendee in the room, not the convention. If you do not sign this, you will not get a balcony room. (And Just an FYI: The fines are around 5k for ONE PIECE OF MATTER thrown or dropped from any of the balconies...)

3. join the AAD forum! All the info on events, parties and special goodies will be talked about and announced there! THIS IS THE ONLY PLACE TO GET ALL THE INFO FOR THE CON!

4. we are about 75% full! If you know someone that is on the fence about going, let them know! We are filling up SO quickly, I thank everyone that's registered this year so far. We are now the fastest growing convention in Romance!

5. rooms are filling up quick! Dont forget to get your room ASAP!

Ok thats it from Stella... Im back in my packing hole to move!

Good Stuff Galore!

noreply@blogger.com (Tilly Greene) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 18:33:00 +0000

Okay, I'm halfway through holiday craziness and wanted to let you guys know a few things that you might find interesting.

First up, the Perfect Gift is a Book event and contest is on and there's still time to enter! Some of your favorite authors and those new to you are sharing their favorite books to give as gifts...a wonderful window into the person behind the book. Comment once or everyday and that's how many times your name is put into the bowl to win a fab bag from Rome that has something from all the places I'm spending time in this holiday season, including a gift certificate from All Romance [who have kept me in ebooks!]. I'm all about sharing the fun :-)

Also, go check out What Book is That - they are also taking part in the event above :-) I did an AAD Author Spotlight and it was probably one of the most fun interviews I've ever done :-)

In book news, Konnichiwa Cowboy [2nd installment in my Branded series and is a BDSM Contemporary Multicultural Erotica] was released, Highland Heat [BDSM Shapeshifter Erotic Romance] was chosen as a Night Owl Reviews Top Pick, Tied Up For Love [5th installment in my Mythological Messes Redux series and is a BDSM Paranormal Erotic Romance] was nominated as a BDSM short story for an AAD Bookie, and whether you're in a frozen clime or hanging out on the beach, Missing in Paradise [BDSM Contemporary Erotic Romance] is another recent release. Yeah, lots of cool stuff is going on!

Phrew, told you - it's a crazy time and all good :-)

Tilly Greene
Scorching romances full of twists, turns and ties.
www.tillygreene.com

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November Featured Author Spotlights

noreply@blogger.com (pj schnyder) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:19:00 +0000

New Sci Fi Erotic Romance from Bianca D'Arc

noreply@blogger.com (Bianca D'Arc) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 20:58:00 +0000

It's been a while since I checked in here. I'm not really sure if this is supposed to be a blog just for the AAD convention or if we're still supposed to blog about other stuff when our day rolls around. Whatever! ;-) I got a notice to blog, so here I am! :)

I've been busy since AAD, working on new projects and celebrating a couple of new and upcoming releases. Finally! I know it's been a while since there's been new material from me. I'm glad to finally end the long dry spell.

Just lately, I've had a couple of romances in futuristic space-faring settings. First, a new novel that starts a brand new trilogy from Samhain Publishing, called HIDDEN TALENT. It released in ebook on October 25th and will be in print sometime next year. The second book in the series is titled TALENT FOR TROUBLE and the third will be called SHY TALENT. I anticipate those being released next year, but don't have exact dates yet.

HIDDEN TALENT is based on the premise that in the future, humans have developed and utilized certain kinds of psychic Talents. In some parts of the galaxy, gifted people share their strengths on a Council of those with Talent who rule over a group of planets. In other parts, people with Talent are hunted for their power. Jeri, the heroine of this story is on the run from one such place and she crosses paths with a StarLord, Micah, who is on a covert mission for the Council. He recognizes her abilities and takes her with him aboard his starship.

What happens then is an education for the shy woman who grew up very repressed by Council standards. Aboard the good ship Circe, pleasure is shared freely in pairs or multiples as a way to enhance and recharge Talent. Micah teaches her all about her abilities and how to harness them. He never bargained on falling in love with her, but there it is. They race to help an agricultural world under attack and together, they learn that they are more powerful than either one is alone.

KING OF SWORDS will be rereleased shortly in ebook formats. It is the first story in the Arcana series of novellas that ties into my Jit'suku Chronicles. Other books in the series include the Sons of Amber: Ezekiel & Michael. This story had been previously released as part of an anthology called FORTUNE'S FOOL, a couple of years ago from Phaze. That anthology is out of print now, so I'm reissuing this story in preparation for releasing the other stories in the series.

KING OF SWORDS is set in the Jit'suku universe, a few hundred years before the Sons of Amber stories. I anticipate having a number of related books set in this world, creating a generational saga that follows the consequences of human tinkering with soldiers' DNA, making them Enhanced, better than they were before and more dangerous to both races.

This particular story introduces a little bar on a space station called The Rabbit Hole, where information is passed back and forth to a network of spies working for the good of humanity. When aliens attack and try to subdue the station, it's up to a couple of retired soldiers turned spies and a clairvoyant civilian woman to repell the invaders. She teams up with one Enhanced soldier in particular. Together can they retake the station and find a love that will last for all time?

The second Arcana story is called KING OF CUPS and will be out in December. It follows the proprietor of The Rabbit Hole and his clairvoyant card dealer on an adventure into Jit'suku space. Few who have gone there have ever returned. They find themselves on an adventure of epic proportions simply by tryinig to help someone out of a jam. Trapped aboard an alien spaceship, they can no longer deny the attraction that has raged between them for months. Can they overcome their differences and find a solution to an intergalactic problem at the same time?

That takes me to the end of the year, but I have a lot more planned for 2012, so stay tuned! :)

AAD NY AUTHOR ACCEPTANCE IS CLOSED

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:14:00 +0000

We have gotten all the NY authors Accepted as of Today (with two that will not be announced till after January). Thank you to everyone that is coming and to those that registered but never got back to us about being a FA- YOU ARE NOT A FA because you never contacted us back about being one IE: you probably haven't been checking your email). The Featured Authors for 2012 for NY authors will be up on the website as of MIDNIGHT Friday.

Thanks to everyone! We still have several small press spots open though. if you are a small press author, registered, and dont see your name on the website, you are NOT a FA. You need to contact us about that.

Thanks ALL!

S

Attention Book clubs!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 13:42:00 +0000

Are you attending AAD NOLA With more then 4 members?

Wanna set up a special book signing with 3 favorite authors attending?

How about a a special book club meet and greet with potential new to you authors?

How about helping us out with the book club panel and workshop?

Contact Stella ASAP with this information: Bookclub Name, # and names of the attending members, Book Club focus, Favorite Authors and where is the Book club set up! (blueflamesabove@yahoo.com)

in regards to questions I have been getting lately...

noreply@blogger.com (Stella Price) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:54:00 +0000

Running a con is never an exact science. So many factors come into play for so many different subjects, it’s hard to be able to include everything. The key events for AAD 2012 are locked down way in advance and we're in full swing nailing down the details of the conference for you all.

We have been getting constructive feedback on the way things are run for 2012 and have already started putting plans into motion to address those suggestions in 2013.

For example, I can speak of the Strictly Self-Published authors out there and their involvement with the con itself. As of this time, AAD doesn’t have a precedence for SSP authors, or didn’t until we realized we needed to for the future cons. With AAD’s 80 authors list already locked in, we will not be accepting any SSP author for this year. In the past, we have never had a SSP author with us so it honestly didn’t cross my mind. Now that there's interest, I'm putting things into place to include them for 2013.

For 2013, SSP authors will have to meet several requirements to be a featured author. I’m working out the kinks on it now, but we are striving to make it fair and beneficial to all involved, especially the readers. I will be putting the requirements out for 2013 once everything is figured out.