RT Houston: To market, to market…

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In real estate, it’s “Location, location, location.” In publishing, it’s “Marketing, mar…” OK, you get the point.

I hit the ground running with this. After registering, I had a great chat with Publisher’s Weekly Beyond the Book blogger, Barbara Vey. She’s already mention me in her blog (and linked my site! Thanks, Barbara!), and I sent two hours this morning getting tips on marketing books online.

One concensus? “myspace, myspace, mysp…” – at least as a beginning. Free and easy to post updates and links to other authors (and author friends) of similar works. Lots of other tips.

The best bit about this convention (unlike my other two favorites ICRS and RWA) is that you get to connect with the readers. Like a good, strong science fiction convention (say, oh, DragonCon), this is a READER’S convention. I get to listen to who’s reading what, and on Saturday, at the book fair, I hope to get a chance to see who’s lining up at which author’s table.

I’ve talked to some inspirational writers who avoid RT because of the strong erotic elements. Erotica is the queen of the convention – it’s everywhere. Ellora’s Cave is a major sponsor, and their catchy little “condoms on a stick” were one of the giveaways in the welcome bag.

Yet I am meeting lots of other folks, those who read (and write, hi Jill!) inspriationals or sweets, but who want to hang out with other readers and maybe pick up on some new authors. I’m hoping some will come to my panel this afternoon.

They served a delicious chicken caesar club for lunch, very healthy, followed by a “Dark Seduction Dessert.” Dark Seduction is the title of Brenda Joyce’s new book, and she co-sponsored the luncheon with eHarlequin and Sony – who gave a good presentation on the eReader and gave away four.

Time for the next sessions…

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