Amidst the many laughs we had, we got to talk about some of our hopes and dreams for the romance world and communities in the future.

The power of book events is evident in this interview. I get to talk to Terreece M. Clarke and Devyn Sinclair. Two authors I got to know at the Smut Lovers conference. They also met at a conference JUST in April. I loved getting to know them in person and feel so lucky to have them share with you all.

Conferences aren't just a great place to get books signed by your favorite authors. They are also where book people can come together and talk about the growth (or lack thereof) of the industry. Where we need to evolve. Who is leading the charge. And so much more.

Until this year, I had never been to a book convention. I dived into the deep end and attended 4 between May and October. Here's what I've learned along the way.