Romance Slam Jam (RSJ) is a readers and writers event promoting diversity in romance books. The first conference was held in 1995, in response to publishing gatekeepers who used to claim, "People won't buy black romance." Over the years, RSJ has helped demolish many barriers in the Romance Book industry. The conference, and now convention, is designed to provide networking opportunities, education, and support for African American romance writers and readers. Black romance, interracial romance, and LGBTQ+ romance are all part of the convention's focus.
Attending RSJ in the past has always felt like going to a family reunion. Both published and aspiring authors, as well as those who are 100% readers participate. The convention especially welcomes bloggers and reviewers who love romance books and want to meet authors, get free books, and a chance to win book related prizes (including a kindle). All are welcome to join in disussions on discussions on diversity in books, regardless of race and/or role in the publishing industry.
 |
| Me with authors KD King and Beverly Jenkins at RSJ 2018 |
In the past, RSJ was held in a variety of cities, including Chicago, Illinois, Dallas, Texas, Los Angeles, California, New Orleans, Louisiana, St. Louis, Missouri, and Detroit, Michigan. Unfortunatly, Covid impacted this event as it did so many others. But now RSJ is back as a virtual event, and I am ready. Entertainment included city and museum tours, dances, and even a dinner - mystery theater night. I have to admit being at home will not match that.
I am so looking forward to networking with passionate readers, and with other authors who write diverse books. I'm especially looking forward to the pajama party event. The night's schedule includes "cliffhangers," readings from stories that are designed to leave us on the edge of our virtual chairs. My fingers are crossed that we will achieve some of the energy that the in-person events always produced.
I have already marked the schedule with the sessions I want to attend and hope to learn from. There is always room for more information on marketing. The other sessions I am hyped about include workshops on comedy writing, pitcing, deep POV, cultural diversity and LGBTQIA+ romance books. I'm even looking forward to one called "Novel Writing Basics." It sounds like something for beginners, but every writing workshop I have ever attended has taught me something I could use to improve my own craft.
There will also be meetings and discussions with publisher representatives from BETHANY HOUSE PUBLISHERS and HARLEQUIN, along with scheduled pitch sessions with several agents and editors.
I admit, three days of Zoom sound a bit overwhelming. But the chance to talk and listen, to discover diverse authors new to me, and talk with readers from across the country, leave me eager to get started.
Bring it on!
PS - I get a box of books sent to me as part of the convention!
5 comments:
Barbara, I spent last week in St. Louis at my first in person conference since the fall of 2019. While it was great to see long time friends and actually see the "whole" of the people I've met over the past four years, it was a bit nerve-wracking for me because not everyone was even vaccinated. Also in a big hotel, just going anywhere exposed me to whatever. I was the only person at the conference who wore a mask except when eating or when presenting (I had control of the space around me so I was more comfortable). Planes and airports? only a few of us at the most wore masks. I think I would have enjoyed it more if it had been virtual...I'm not sure when I'll be comfortable being in a group of strangers without masking and sanitizing.
I'm sure you'll enjoy RSJ. Do share your adventure with us. I've always enjoyed your past posts when you do talk about your RSJ adventures.
Barbara,
I've never done a virtual zoom conference. But after reading your blog, I think I might enjoy it too!!
I do miss seeing and talking to other writers.
Romance Slam Jam sounds like a wonderful conference . Enjoy and do report back.:))
Barbara, your excitement is contagious! Can't wait to hear about your experience!!!
Is there a mailing list I can get on to get updates and announcements for next year?
Sarah, and everyone else, you can get information, see this years schedule, and get on the mailing list for future information at their website - https://rsjconvention.com/virtual-romance-book-con-event-schedule/
And for any aspiring authors, they have a contest that is open until the end of July. They are looking for romances with multicultural protagonists. The finalists receive mentorships wih published authors. Information is also on that link.
PS, I will try to take good notes.
Sounds like an awesome conference, Barbara!
Post a Comment