Ellora’s Cave certainly knows how to throw a party and organize a convention. This past RomantiCon Convention in Richfield, OH, October 9-11^th proved that. This was the publisher’s first sponsored convention and it was a huge hit. About 200 authors, readers, reviewers, EC staff members and other media attended and are still raving about it on blogs and posting photos at various sites.

There were several workshops and panels that were geared toward readers, authors or both. Readers had the opportunity to speak up on what they really want and don’t want in their romance and erotic romance, and what’s taboo. Publisher and editor Raelene Gorlinsky gave a workshop on choreographing action scenes, demonstrating errors found in published works. She gave and example where a villain had a knife at the heroine’s throat and was pointing a gun at the hero with his other hand, then answered a cell phone to speak to the hostage negotiator. Can’t happen unless he has three hands. Other specialty panels included researching and writing for Historical, Paranormal, M/M, GLBT and BDSM. There were workshops for promotion, advertising and marketing too.

Bobby, "Austin" and Taylor

The tie-dyed program book that contained the schedule and workshop handouts was a brilliant idea. It also had the author names and EC cavemen with spaces allowing for signatures so readers and authors could sign each other’s books. I felt like I was back in high school asking friends to sign my year book. It was a great ice breaker and a way to start a conversation.

Author Mania was an opportunity for readers (or other authors) to meet, chat and get books signed by authors who were scheduled at specific times.

The Psychedelic Soiree was probably the biggest hit. A 60s theme party of tie-dyed shirts, miniskirts, go-go boots, gauzy dresses, and there was one Austin Powers look-a-like. All were doing their groove thang, dancing to 60s music along with the hunky cavemen. Oh, and Austin’s shoes! The gold platforms were amazing. I give him credit for wearing them all night.

An awards dinner highlighted the next evening with authors receiving recognition for exceptional work, and the cavemen entertaining us with a show to kick your heart rate up a few beats. If you don’t believe me, check out the Youtube video:

 EC Cavemen – You Can Leave Your Hat On

A packed book signing on Sunday, and then Bingo Sunday night to finish off the weekend—the most fun I’ve ever had at a convention. I’ll be there next year.

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