Okay so wow, it took me a week or two to finally get to chronicling the MAIN day!! You know why? ‘Cause I don’t want it to be over yet, and “journaling” Book Bash kept it going, you know? This will be the end until next year… *sigh*.
You wanna know what else? I can’t remember walking into Book Bash, Saturday morning. Nada. Nothing. I remember doing my hair with Tarryn Fisher earlier that morning. Yep!!! Crazy right? I got to help straighten Tarryn’s hair. It’s beautiful, by the way. All shiny and soft. But I digress. At some point we separated, and when that happened, my mind went blank. I lost my tie to her, and apparently lost my tie to reality…
I can’t remember leaving my room, taking the elevator down, or entering the event. I don’t remember seeing… anything. I can’t remember sitting down at my table. There are pictures of me from that morning that are helping me piece it together. It’s like it was such an explosive, monumental moment for me, that I went completely… blank. I was walking, talking even. And so happy! There are pictures that prove this. Pictures, that I don’t even remember posing for.
I was functional and obviously on auto-pilot. Maryse was there, but she wasn’t “home”. LOL!!!! Sensory overload? I suppose it was either go blank, or faint. I was both excited and frightened out of my skull. Literally, it would seem. It’s so crazy how the brain works at a time like that. When it’s just SO much… too much, that you overload into… nothing.
Wait. I just had a flash!! Eddie, my event manager coming up to me with a silly grin on his face, squeezing my hands together and saying… “Everyone in both lines have all been scanned in and wrist-banded, already.” I think I squee’d at him and wrapped myself around his neck. That was one of my big fears, you know? I wanted everyone to be ready to enter when the event opened. And so I remember the relief when he confirmed this.
After that? I think my next memory is when Sylvia Day walked in. YES!! I remember that, walking her to her table, asking if she needed anything. I totally remember taking a few pictures with her a little while after that, having her sign my book. Eddie, just as excited to meet her as I was, huddling next to me. She was beaming, and so were we. That was SO cool!
Oh!! I remember when my mom and aunts entered the room… again, before the event started (during setup). My mom was waltzing down the middle of the room, all glamourous-like. In slow motion, no less. I swear it’s how I saw her! And Eddie (yes, Eddie was holding me up that day) behind me, muttering in my ear… “Here comes mama.” LOL!!! Yeah, she can put on a show when she wants to. I remember that! My mom laughed when I described that moment to her. She insists it was nothing like that, but hey, I’m just telling you what my mind remembers.
I remember the author and volunteer group photos, and the videographer’s crazy hovering-helicopter camera capturing that moment. The balloons flapping with the gusts, Kendall Grey’s hair blowing dramatically in the wind (no for real – look at her picture – she’s in the front) and the camera guys telling us to just… “ignore the helicopter above our heads”. Yah right!!! LOL! But actually, the authors did ignore it and they took THE BEST pictures ever!
Oh!! Tarryn just told me what happened. She said:
“You went down before me. With Kevin.”
GAH! I left her. Yep! My husband just told me the rest. He came up to our room and said “Maryse! We gotta go downstairs!” and I said “But we’re not done yet…” He said I looked done, and Tarryn said she’d be down soon, and for us to go ahead and Kev called out “Bye Tarryn!!” and kidnapped me.
Yep. I left Tarryn freakin’ Fisher to get ready by herself. In my room. *giggle*
At some point during setup, we met up again ’cause look! There’s a picture. And you guessed it. I don’t remember taking it. 😉 But apparently she was none the worse for wear ’cause she looked GREAT! ———>
But what I do remember clear as day is when Eddie announced that we were opening the doors, and from that moment forward, everything came into focus. We were so ready!! I remember my excitement as I saw everyone filing in. The energy was amazing and stayed that way throughout the day. Everyone was smiling. No. BEAMING. And I got to hug SO many of you in person.
It was the best day of my entire life. Happy *squeeee* moments as we finally got to meet for the first time. Calm and casual. But that’s ’cause I was at the very front, facing the “quiet” part of the room. The entrance. And since everyone had already “entered”, my entrance-view was a serene one. But all I had to do was look over my shoulder to see the electrified, pulsating packed room behind me and I’d *eeeeep!!* and hyperventilate a little. 
My eyes bugging out at how AMAZING and a little crazy it all looked.
But, my husband, Eddie and the volunteers had this thing covered, so there I sat with Paul on one side of me and my mom on the other, keeping me grounded. All I had to do was look to the front, and my blood pressure would stabilize and I could breathe again. I can’t even begin to imagine how the authors were feeling amidst that incredible fervor. You know the old adage, “out of sight, out of mind.”? Well, okay, that’s pushing it in this case, ’cause there was no way I couldn’t feel that amazing energy coursing through the entire room, but you know… my calming front–view helped me. And there some of you were. Some of my fellow readers and friends, smiling back at me.
Ahhhhhhh panic attack averted (except for the times when I’d overhear my mom recounting my “childhood/teenage” moments to anyone that would listen. Usually, Paul. MOOOOMmmm!!!! 
Okay so I had teeny tiny mini panic-attacks as I’d try to reign her in. Hehe. I love my mom. Nothing fazes her.
Oh!! I remember another thing! When I was having a “bonding” moment with a group of fellow readers (we were… discussing the attractiveness of a few ummm… certain…) *blush* well anyway. 😉 I looked over and noticed the videographer pointing the video camera in our direction but from a good “sound-safe” distance. He was much too far, and the event was far too loud for him to capture anything I was saying from all the way over there. Except his grin had me nervous.
We all looked over at him, and I immediately felt for my “mic” (from where they had me wired up the previous night), and remembered… ahhhhhh. I’m free!! Nobody mic’d me today! YAY ME!! And I proceeded to inform the girls that we were safe, he was filming but he couldn’t hear me. Until he slowly shook his head side to side, grinning… suggesting that he could hear everything. WHAT!?? How?! Look up?
Awwwwwww COME ON!!!!! What the heck IS THAT? Oh. A Booooooom mike. Nice. Grrrrrrrr! Yep. He chuckled again and moved on to his next victim, I mean… subject. 😉
And here’s Abbi Glines getting the “Boom Mic” treatment, too. See? None of us escaped it.
LOL!!
But overall, the best day of my life and it went off, pretty much, without a hitch. It stayed busy and non-stop the entire time ending on a high note for everyone. I scrambled for a few last minute photos with exiting authors, and I received the most AWESOME signed photo frame (handed to me by K.A. Linde) – signed by all of the authors there, that day. WOW!!! Blown. AWAY!! I will be putting the author group-photo in it (and I think I want it to be the silly one). I love that one SO much.
I was thrilled! Plus, the day wasn’t over yet. There were still after-parties to get ready for. YAY US!!!
You guys wanna see even more amazing pictures of that day?
CLICK HERE to see them on the Book Bash Facebook page (and more will be added over the next week).
Things I learned that day:
- I can function well even on a mind that has seemingly went blank. I can even pose and smile for pictures that I may, later, not remember taking.
- Nervous Maryse will abandon her favorite authors in her hotel room without thinking twice about it. Okay I must have hesitated… right? Either way, I don’t remember that at all.
- Moms cannot be trusted with embarrassing childhood memories.
- Having a “Black Dagger” 😉 brother (okay… cover model) casually hanging around will surprise many (like Gloria from Globug and Hootie. She was sitting right next to us and her double-take had me giggling – I love her!!). Some fans might even (and one did!) burst into tears (not Gloria, but her expression was just as priceless). Darn why wasn’t there a video of those? Oh!! But there’s a tweet from her.
*giggle*
- I didn’t get to meet half of the authors I intended to. Well, I actually intended on meeting ALL of them, but we were all so busy throughout the entire day that I missed out on quite a few photo and autograph opportunities. Some of my books came back home with me, naked.
- Not being “mic’d” doesn’t mean I’m not being recorded… grrrr!!! I got caught on camera, AGAIN!
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Maryse and author Ryan Winfield Ryan Winfield is tall. Very TALL. And he’s very patient with the photo-ops and all of my silly giggling as my family and friends took pictures of our extreme height difference. I’m extra short, so yes… there was lots of giggling.
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Author Jamie McGuire and Maryse (she had to crouch so we could sort of match for the picture!) LOL!! Jamie McGuire is really tall, too! (Or maybe everyone just seems so tall because I’m so… NOT).
- Katie (one of our awesome Book Bash volunteers) is super-stealthy. Apparently she was enlisted as the big-secret-frame-signing girl (she carried the frame to each author that day), and I didn’t notice a thing. Not even when I walked right up to her and chatted (as she was holding the frame). No worries Julie. Apparently my mind blanked out then, too, ’cause I didn’t see a thing. Thanks for telling me that tidbit though. Tee hee! 😉
- Last minute author interviews between Book Bash ending and after-parties beginning is exciting (and nerve-wracking). I can’t even begin to describe how I felt when I looked over at my dinner table in my suite and saw our crew casually chatting with authors Sylvia Day and Shayla Black as we prepared for the interview sessions.
- Getting to go to two after-parties is fun!! And hectic. (more to follow on my “Afterparty Chronicles”).
- Book Bash official DAY 3?! Feeling ECSTATIC and ohhhhhh sooooo relieved!!! IT’S PARTY TIME!!!
Book Bash volunteers have some hilarious Book Bash tidbits of their own. Wanna hear what they told me?
VOLUNTEERS Chronicle their own version of Book Bash:
Maryse: Look what JA Redmerski calls you guys! “… team of superhero volunteers.” I think we’re gonna adopt it! 😀
Elizabeth: I was assigned to her row and she was SUPER nice! I think she was surprised that her line stayed so busy! So glad I got to meet her and her daughter.
Kirsten: I wanted to share this story yesterday because I thought it was funny but I never got around to posting it. I laughed at the bell hop as I checked out yesterday morning. He started asking me about Book Bash. He goes “we knew some sort of “book convention thing” was coming and we were expecting quiet people who like to read. On Friday I was tipped with a $10 bill and two condoms from a woman who said she was an author and I realized I probably had misconceptions about women who like to read.”
Emma: Epic!
Lori: That’s hysterical!
Laura: OMG I love this. So hard.
Elizabeth: LOL!! That’s awesome!! I asked the security guards Saturday morning if they were prepared for Book Bash. I don’t think they had any idea what to expect!
sidenote: we all “guessed” the same on who that author was. 😉 Love her! Who knows… maybe she’ll confirm. 😉
Elizabeth: I gave Kristen (Ashley) a hug and when I pulled away, I realized that both of our sequined shirts were stuck together! YES…one of the highlights of that weekend was getting stuck by the boob to Kristen Ashley! I’m so glad Lori got pics of that moment!
Lori: One of the most awesome parts for me was how many people had extra tickets and have them to me to give away. Elizabeth and I had a fair share of really happy/crying with joy ladies who flew in from around the country without a ticket and were so thankful and nice about it.
Elizabeth: Ohhh yeah!!! We absolutely did!! We even had a couple to fly in from Venezuela just to come to Book Bash!
Laura: I got the chance to go to Disney with Karina Halle, her editor Kara, and Chelsea Cameron. Kara sat in some gum so she and I became super close, because I had to pick it off her. I had Chelsea go get some ice to harden it up so I could get it. We got some funny looks in the bathroom Also – I GOT TO HANG OUT WITH FABULOUS AUTHORS.
Sherry: My 2 cents are, how AWESOME every one of those authors and assistants were..They were very easy to work for. Best time EVER.
Elizabeth: Katy Evans and JA Redmerski had their kids with them and they were all so great! I think they had a great time and didn’t expect to see that their moms are so popular.
Steven: After I left for City Walk, I had a group of girls run up to me and take my photo and they asked me what book cover I was on. I then had to tell them that I am not famous. They still brought me up to their VIP Booth though so, that was pretty sweet.
Lori: By the way, I LOVE the picture of all the volunteers, minus Steven done by the photographer. Steven, why weren’t you there?
Steven: I think I was busy with Andy and the videographer trying to come up with a gameplan.
Katie: SC Stephens had the longest line all day long!!! I was assigned to her row so I was tag teaming with her publicist to keep the masses happy & to keep people trying to get to the other authors tables on the back row moving. Shannon’s team did a bang up job and no one in line got upset about waiting. Her assistant & I passed out pens, swag & water to everyone. I was so impressed with her team & her fans. I already love her but I love her even more.
Katie: All Jamie McGuire asked of me was to get her a Red Bull! I went to the Gift Shop. The Cafe. The Starbucks… And nothing! I called my hubs in our room and sent him out. He went to 3 stores and came back with every energy drink on the market except Red Bull. If I ever come to Florida again I am bringing a case. Now I have a frig full of Monsters LOL <<< the RED BULL DIARIES
Katie: Kyla gave me the task of having all the authors sign a photo matte for you Maryse. I felt like a soldier out in the field battling lines & trying to be super sneaky so you never saw it. You even walked up to me to ask me a question while I was carrying it. I was so proud when I got the last signature. I almost ran off with it. LOL
Maryse: OH MY GOD Katie!!! I was wondering who managed that. I was wondering if they passed it around UNDER the table one table to the next, ’cause I didn’t see a THING. And I walked right up to you while you had it? LOL!!!!
Elizabeth: I remember that me and Maryse were trying to psyche ourselves up to get a picture with Dr. Ivan, but sadly it never happened…what a shame LOL
Sherry: hey I remembered one…it was actually waaaaaay back in my mind trying to forget…k, here goes. I had met Ivans dad a day before and we became *great buddies* well, the night of the Authors reception, either Paul wanted to meet Ivan or vice versa…..so we walk to his group w/his dad and assistant and introduce each other. So during some small talk Ivans dad looks at me and asks me if Paul is my son ……WHAT…..WHAT…,?!?! We got a good laugh out of that (kinda ;)) But Paul and I did the math, and I believe I would had to have been 12 or 13 when I had him…..so see why I didnt remember that *fun* little memory…..ugh
Maryse: LOL!!!! Ahhh yah I remember you telling me that. My funny memory is how I wanted to take a picture with him (Dr. Ivan) at the Pre-registration party, but I chickened out… sorta. I think it was Elizabeth and I were last-minute stalking him, I mean “following him” from afar as he moved about the room, but then he picked up speed and was heading towards the doors to leave. We had two choices, We would have either had to chase him (GAH!! I was already shy enough as it was to approach him non-nonchalantly – let alone CHASE him down) or let him go. So… we let him go. But! I had my chance the next day, you see. And STILL! I didn’t get my picture with him. *bok bok* <— me. chicken. 😉
Sherry: You shoulda put me on that!!! I would have asked him anything.
Elizabeth: I never did get a pic with him either! Boo!
Angie: Book Bash went by so quickly!!! I wish it was a week long…lol! I loved seeing my “book” friends!!
Maryse: Me too! It’s like all of our “internet world” came true.
Awwww! And then there was a HUGE “virtual” volunteer-group-hug. The best team ever! *sigh* I’m feeling all nostalgic again. Okay, I’m extending the post one more day. Actually, “night”. The “after parties” will be the next (and final) Book Bash 2013 posts. Unless we come up with more, but I think by the last post, y’all will have a good idea of just how awesome that weekend was. 😉 And for that giveaway, I’ll give out a K.A. Linde swag bag and a few Gallery Books goodies (since K.A. Linde was one of the authors that hosted it and Gallery sponsored it). 🙂
Ready for today’s giveaway? We came home with a few extra Book Bash t-shirts, swag bags and a WHOLE LOTTA swag. I’m giving away another THREE Book Bash “swag” kits tonight! Each contain a signed book, and TWO of ’em include one from Tarryn Fisher herself. A signed copy of “The Opportunist”!!!
So… a couple of books, a Books-a-Millions tote bag, a Book Bash t-shirt (with the attending authors listed on the back – you choose what size you want!), signed bookmarks and postcards – tons of goodies! A fun Book Bash prize package for us book-lovers!.
How to enter for a chance to win it? Just leave a comment below (any comment will work, but if you want to let me in on a secret, let me know what you were doing on Saturday June 29th 2013 – if you can remember that far back 
– hey I can’t blame you, I blanked out that day too!!!), and tomorrow night (Thursday July 25th, 2013) by 10pm EST, I will randomly select three winners.
The winners will be contacted and will have 48hrs to respond with a mailing address, so if you are picked, do not delay or you will lose your chance. This is a open to U.S. & Canada only (but you’re welcome to comment and join in any time!!).
Love your blog as always! Was prob reading during book bash!
Super cute dress Maryse!!!! Your soo tiny!!!
I can’t remember what I was doing, but I know I definitely read something and definitely checked your blog, cause I do both daily!
You all look like you had so much fun! I wish I could have been there to meet so many amazing authors and fellow readers!
I would love to win an awesome swag bag! Thanks for the giveaway!
Looks like you had so much fun..it must be so exiting being with so many authors.
Love you!! What was I doing? Reading, I’m sure!! Would love to win!! thanks!!
THANKS SO MUCH MARYSE!!!! Hmmm…I don’t remember what I did 2 weeks before but I probably read a book recommended from you!
This looks like so much fun!! Wow! On the 28th I was at my daughter’s softball game. I was probably sneaking a read on my phone’s kindle app whenever I could.
I remember what I was doing. I was sulking because I really really wanted to go :(. Thanks so much for putting us a lil cyber scrapbook together.Its the next best thing to being there.
I really don’t remember what book but of course I was reading! Any spare time and I am reading. Book bash looks like a blast! Thanks for the giveaway!!
I’m pretty sure I was reading on that Friday night!! Thanks Maryse!!
I was still working.
On Friday June 28, 2013 I was stuck in my office studying for the CPA exam wishing I could be reading any of the numerous books I have bought due to your suggestions. My TBR list is getting out of hand!
I was reading of course;)
I don’t remember what I was doing! I was probably stressing about a week long visit from my in-laws though 🙂 Thanks for the giveaway!
Looks like a blast!
I was at book bash! And GNO
I truly don’t have any idea what I was doing the day or night for that matter, but I’d love a sway bag. Thanks for all the great reviews and info!!!!!
I love your page and visit every day. I am so glad I stumbled upon it. On the 28th of June I was in Fort Bragg Ca camping with my family,
I was reading and wishing that I was at Book Bash!! I check your blog everyday!!
I have no idea what I did that day but I read a book that i’m sure hmmmm but i just can’t think of which one it was lol!
I’m not really sure what I was doing but I know I was most likely reading and surfing Goodreads for more books, as always 🙂
I love that you freaked like a normal person. You are wonderful. Thanks for the giveaway and all the fun.
Wow, you worked hard and pulled off a great event! Congratulations!
On Sat. June 29th I was working/weeding my flower gardens, then enjoying the evening on our deck with friends.
Thanks!
Love your blog was probably reading your blog.xoxo
Reading!!! Thank You for all you do!
I was at Universal Studios Orlando that day with my 3 kids. :-).
I do not know what I was doing that day, I have a horrible memory. I must take notes on almost everything I do just to stay sane. Thanks for the giveaway!
OMG…I just finished Shine Not Burn after not even a day and I have to say, I have a new leading man in my life (don’t tell my husband)!!! Mack.Mack.Mack! Ladies, do yourself a favor and read this book! I can only hope that Elle Casey continues their story-so much laughter, some tears and an unbelievable amount of amazingness in this one! I actually might start reading it again RIGHT NOW!!! Maryse, please tell me you have read it…if not, put it at the top of your list!!! I need more books like this!
I was wishing I was there!!!! Sounds like an awesome day.
Great giveaway! Wish I could have made it to Book Bash. Also I have no idea what I was doing that day!
*sniff* I was stuck in a different country..wishing I was a book bash!! Thanks for the giveaway & book bash chronicles!! 🙂
I was working, but wishing I was reading
I was wishing I was there to meet you and all the fantastic authors!
Wow! Sounds like an awesome day!!!
I was either reading or at clinical! 🙂
I wish I could’ve been here.
Thanks for having fun for me!
SMILE!
It was my husband’s birthday so I probably spent some part of the day with him. The other part I probably was reading and bummed I wasn’t going to Book Bash.
Love hearing about Book Bash! I hope to attend next year somehow. On June 29 I was in Ocean City, MD with family and jealously stalking my FB feed for updates about Book Bash! : ) I was also doing my second reading of the Experiment in Terror series at that time. LOVE.
I was actually at Book Bash helping one of the fabulous authors!! Thanks so much for the giveaway! You did an awesome job with the event!!!!!
Saturday I was flying back from a family vacation and tomorrow night I will be reading!! The kids are spending the night at grandmas….yay!!!!
I was at home stalking authors pages on FB seeing how much fun everyone was having. Still pissed at myself that I didn’t attend; however, if you do it next year I WILL be there. Please have it again next year.
Wish I could have been there but I was home throwing my stepson a graduation from fifth grade BBQ! Next year!
Wishing I could have been there!
I need another t-shirt my family is driving me nuts to get one and I want Opportunist!
Would love to win! June 29 I was 39 weeks pregnant waiting for my baby girl to come 🙂
ive had a rough week so hopefully this is my lucky day
That event looked incredible!!!! I was still catching up on Experiment in Terror on the 29th…sigh.
I just wanted to say that I am so happy I found this blog, and it is the first place I go to on almost a daily basis to get info on the newest book releases. I love the lists you have going and I get most of the books I read off of there. On June 29, I was probably working, but my iPad is always within reach no matter where I am at. 🙂
Looks like you guys had a blast! Wish I could have been there! Maybe next year….
I was working and wishing that I was at Book Bash!! 🙂
Another GREAT giveaway, you are the BEST! I was at a wedding Saturday, the 29th.
I’m sure I was reading….pick me, pick me
I was on a mini-vacation with my husband..Thank you Maryse!!
Jeez. I don’t remember what in the world I did last week.
I do love seeing the adventure that was Book Bash though. Looks so fun.
Reading of course!! I’m addicted to reading!!! I really wish I could have come to the Book Bash!! I’ve read a book from almost every author you posted pics of today. Hope you will be making a visit to Toronto sometime in the future. Will there ever be a Book Bash in Toronto??? I hope so!!
Words cannot express how wonderful it is to be able to experience Book Bash vicariously through your posts and photos, Maryse. I had hoped to attend, even though I’m probably MORE shy than Willow Aster admits to be, but had to call off our plans—return the tickets and cancel our hotel reservations. We ended up driving to Nags Head on the 29th and spending a week with my in-laws, which was very nice…I read FOUR books while there, so it was a very book-y vacation.
Thanks again!
I was working wishing I was there. . great giveaway
Looks like you had a blast! Wish I could have been there. Maybe next year!!
I was reading! And wishing I was at Book Bash!!
Hmmm…let me see…I was wishing I was at Book Bash 🙂
Love seeing the pics and hearing the stories!
Ugh I’m so jealous I was working….
Thanks for offering up some Book Bash swag! 🙂
Ahhhh memories,I love it.it was the most fun day I had these summer can’t wait for next year
Reding of coarse and wishing I was at book bash!!! Thanks for letting me live thru your pics and stories-looks and sounds like sooooo much fun-maybe next yr? That is if i stop buyin so many of your recommendations I can afford to come-what’s a girl suppose to do?????
This looks awesome! Umm…OH! I went out for drinks with my buddies! Thanks for the giveaway!
cant wait for next years book bash!!!
I just love reading all about your book bash experience. It gets me excited and hopeful that you’ll do it next year! I remember feeling like. Kid gong to Disney world when I entered my first author signing event! Thanks again for all the hard work that you and those wonderful volunteers did- you all did a phenomenal job! I was going to get Dr. Ivan’s autograph for a friend but I chickened jut when I saw him too!!
Sorry, apparently I can’t type very well….lots of typos!
Had so much fun meeting you, Maryse (and I secretly had a pre chat with one of the boom mic guys to make sure I would be pronouncing it correctly!). Met so many of my favorite authors– and the meaningful chats with them in person were one-of-a-kind!! Thank you so much for putting this all together! I can’t wait for the next one.
PS – this time my hubs was one of the few men in attendance. He became my non-complaining assistant (hold books, take pictures). Hoping he’s a lock for the next one, too! Haha!
Looks like so much fun. I cannot remember what I was doing. Probably reading!
Thanks for filling us in on Bookbash and especially posting your pictures. I just finished Thief and went online to see what others thought of it and I clicked on your website. I think my summer just got a whole lot busier with your recommendations… (insert big grin here). As for what I was doing, my day planner says that I ate, slept, read Kristen Ashley, and repeated. Ahhhh… I love summer. Thanks again for your stealthy photos!
Nothing exciting I’m fairly certain!!!
HOW. FREAKING. EXCITING. !!!!!!!! Love all those pictures, I have got to be at one of these some day!
I went out with some friends to see White House Down
This is my go-to website every day. I love this blog!! On June 29th, I was at my wedding shower during the day, then reading at night. 🙂 Unlike Olivia & Caleb in The Opportunist (and Dirty Red and can’t speak for Thief because only 50% done – so good!!!), I’m all about communicating my feelings to my guy! LOL.
Sounds like it was a total blast and I’d love some swag! So incredibly jealous of your awesome bash!
Can’t remember exactly, but I was more than likely reading!
Looks like it was so much fun!! I do not want to miss the next one!!
I was waiting patiently in line for the doors of book bash to open, chatting with all my new friends. I would love some swag to remember my awesome day!
Love your blog! I wish I could’ve gone to book bash! Maybe next year…
I’m so jealous! Thank you for sharing your experience and photos from Book Bash! 🙂
i just stumbled across your blog when reading info about Karen Marie Moning’s the Fever Series–my favorite paranormal series of all time! I don’t follow many blogs but will definitely keep up with yours. So much fun and always love to hear about great reads! On June 29th, I was out with my hubby for our 22nd wedding anniversary. We ran off to a spa for the weekend to celebrate and relax…and were caught in a thunderstorm while listening to great music and drinking champagne! a little rain didn’t spoil the mood.
I’m sure I was doing school work:(
Love your blog!
I’m so jealous! Wish I could have been there! 🙂 I’m pretty sure I was at home either reading or wii bowling with my daughter! lol Love your blog!
That looks amazing!! I was mourning not being there on June 29th! It looks like so much fun!
Hi! I’m sure I was at home with my family that day! I love your blog!
I was probably at home reading! Love your blog Maryse! 🙂
Love some swag! Pick Me!!!
I have no idea what I was doing that night, but wish I could have been at the Book Bash!
I know what I was doing! I was watching all the posts/pictures on Facebook about Book Bash and was mad I was not there!!
On June 29th, I was at Book Bash meeting some wonderful authors. I then took my official photographer, my son, to Universal & Islands of Adventure. We rode the Transformers ride, which was amazing.
I can’t remember what I was doing on that Saturday but I’m sure I did some reading and probably checked your blog several times waiting for your latest recommendation.
Hmm let’s see June 29th, I was at this little thing called Book Bash, having the time of my bookworm life lol. Seriously, Book Bash was so much fun and all the authors I met were so sweet.
I love the pictures!!! It looks like it was so fun, I wish I could of been there.
So sad I missed it! :/ But love reading all your experiences!
I had such an amazing time at Book Bash! That was my first time ever at a book signing or anything related to books for that matter. I LOVED meeting all the authors, fans, volunteers and especially you, Maryse! It was an awesome experience and one that I will NEVER forget!! Thank you again for all that you do 🙂
After Book Bash was over, I would have loved to gone to the after party (we won tickets) but my daughter and grand daughter live in Cape Canaveral and I only see them every 3 months, so we drove down to visit with them. Next year I plan on staying longer…..
Thank you for sharing – hope to make it next year ;). I do remember that I was at a soccer tournament in the hot sun that day… Wish I’d been at Book Bash!
You got stuck by the boob with Kristen Ashley?! I’m in awe! LOL
On that day, I was in a little bit of a funk. I really wished that I’d been there. I was completely jealous.
Great job! What an incredible event you put together.
I was visiting family, so we were probably having a BBQ. Wish I had been at Book Bash!
I totally remember what I was doing that day….I was on vacation with my family, and…. from 12-4, I was at BOOK BASH. It was so amazing!!!! one of the best experiences ever!
I was attending Book Bash. I hung out with an amazing friend there, met cool authors and bloggers and made some sweet book friends. I can’t wait to go next year.
I was at book bash and had a blast!!
I spent my unexciting day being jealous of everyone who was there and frequently checking Facebook to see everyone’s adventures at book bash!
Ohhh wow, what an amazing time there is no way I am missing it next year. That is just the best of the best. I actually do remember what I was doing June 29. I was actually shopping because in September I will be going to Europe for the first time and there was a sale at Macy’s so there I was buying shoes to wear in England and Scotland. Those swag bags are just amazing.
Saturday June 29th I was enjoying Book Bash, but I missed getting to meet you. Really enjoy reading your highlights.
I was just filling sorry that i could go
I was home, getting ready for my daughter’s wedding and the rehearsal dinner picnic we hosted in our backyard. Couldn’t stop thinking about you guys though! Next year!
Wish I could have been there, looks like everyone had a blast!
We were celebrating my father in law’s 80th birthday in Lake Tahoe.
On the 29th I was basically sleeping all day since my summer just started and tomorrow I will probably be reading all day. Thanks for the giveaway! 🙂 Wish I could’ve been there
I was at home being VERY jealous of everyone that where able to go to Book Bash 🙁
wishing I was there
Major jealous of your book bash fun! Saturday, I was home organising my kindle collectons all day on the deck as it was the official first day off work for the summer holidays as im a teacher yay!
The 29th I was in bed with a horrible sinus infection. I wish I was at the book bash looked like so much fun
I was sitting on a floatie in my pool reading. That’s where I am most of the summer. Love the blog!
I was at the beach in Port Aransas TX….kicking it old school reading an actual paperback !!!! (I KNOW) I almost forgot I couldn’t touch the side of screen to turn the page.
Pick me pick me….lmao
Love your blog and wish I had been at Book Bash!
I sooo wished I could have gone to book bash, everyone seemed to have had an awesome time. I love your blog and have recommended it to anyone I meet who LOVES to read. Thanks for all you do:)
I was at a soccer game and waiting to get my chance to read!!
Rough week and only half way through, this would brighten it up though. Love following your blog!
June 29th was my 30th birthday!!!! Still have mixed emotions about that:) it was a blast from what I remember. May have had a bit of wine that night??:) would love a nice belated birthday present like this one!
I know exactly what I was doing. I was trying to talk my prego best friend in to driving to Florida from Oklahoma. I even tweeted about wishing i could be at book bash. Every single one of my favorite authors was there. I’m glad you guys had so much fun!
Wishing I possess the ability of space-time manipulation so I could easily teleport my way to every book bash/book signing there is.
Wondering how come authors have not visited the Philippines yet. 🙁
I’m not sure what I was doing that Saturday, but I’m sad I wasn’t at Book Bash!
I love your blog and I don’t remember what I was doing but I read every chance I get.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us! I can really enjoy it now that I’m not so upset I missed it :-/ I avoided all social websites June 29th and the week following I spent my nights reading lol btw love your blog Maryse. I’ve been following you for just over a year now, your part of my nightly routine 😉
Swimming with the kids….aka me sitting poolside with a book, lol
Would love a swag bag…I’m sure part of the day I was reading
I was moving out of my apartment and into my new house 🙂 I was so bummed that I couldn’t go to Book Bash, but on the positive side, I really love my new house and not having to throw my money away on rent anymore!
Would live to win!!! Uhhhh June 29th??? No clue! But I love reading and I absolutely love your wonderful blog!!! Thank you for all your fabulous recommendations!
reading of course. wish I was there.
since i couldnt go to book bash, i was reading as usual
I am sure that on June 29 th I was wishing that I was at book bash!
So much fun! What a neat experience. I’m sure I was reading that day. Probably falling for one of the Nightingale boys.
I’m sure I was reading something good.
Looks fun. I was reading…
I know at some point that day I was reading but wishing I was at Book Bash! From all the great pics, it looks like an amazing event.
It looks like so much fun! I was using a backhoe in my yard. So not fun. I hope I can go next year.
I was reading and shopping with my daughter to celebrate how well she did at dance camp the week prior. Your blog is BY FAR the best! Thanks for all the hard work you put into it!!
Can’t remember that far back, most likely reading like I always am. Please pick me!
Love your updates!! I was probably reading 🙂
I would have loved to go!
It looks like you had a blast! I wish I could’ve been there, I had no idea about this event. Just started really having a book addiction this past year…so pick me, please! 🙂
I’m pretty sure I was reading into the early morning…as usual! Thanks so much for the recap!! Wish I could have been there!
Oh, Maryse!!! It was one of the BEST days of. My. Life!!! So awesome to meet you, and 5 of my top 6 favorite authors!!! Love you lady!!
Drawing a blank…so I’ll just *squeee* 😉
I’m pretty sure I was working. This event looks like so much fun. I hope you make it an annual event!
So jealous! Wish I could have been there! I was on a plane that day flying from Orlando (yeah leaving not staying!) Love to see the chronicles of it though Maryse!
Wish I was there.
definitely can’t remember that!
I was flying to Dallas to see family with my son. Wish I was there.
Book bash looked like soo much fun!!! Love your blog!!!
I was getting pics of the event sent to me by my reading buddy Johanna. (And also pestering her with a million questions about what was going on) 🙂
Love your blog!!! Wished I was there!!! You are amazing!!!
Hmmm…I was probably hanging out with the kids and trying to sneak in a chapter or two while they were occupied.
Consider having a book bash in Hawaii. I would definitely be there. Thank you for the cool, swag giveaways!!!
I can’t remember what I was doing. Probably wishing I was at Book Bash!!
I wish I could’ve gone! Book Bash looked so amazing!
I was working at both of my jobs…morning waitressing at the diner and then the afternoon/evening cashiering at the market. I love the randomness and people watching at both jobs!
I was at my son’s swim meet. BTW, if you’re ever in the dumps, I suggest watching a group of 4 year olds race each doing the butterfly stroke. You can’t help but smile. =)
I was doing something incredibly fun… working..
Good luck everyone and congratulations to those who won.
Love your blog! Book bash was amazing and more!
Oh my gosh! I wish I could have been there! Sounds like a fun event!
Great job Maryse!
Louise C.
Montreal
I was bbq’n and making Smores.
I was at home wishing I was at Book Bash soo badly!!
Aw, I love the pics from Book Bash. Makes me sad that I missed it though. Thanks for sharing! On June 29, I was at a Matt & Kim concert with my hubby, brother-in-law, and best friend. Good times!
I still am reading all about the book bash and ashamed I wasn’t able to attend, you are really truly amazing Maryse! Iv mentioned before in the give aways that sadly we as in my family and I were driving home from Orlando on that date! Due to husband having to work I was unable to extend our vacation for me to attend! But you can bet that I’ll do anything to attend next time! Thanks Maryse for all that you do! You’re simply amazing 🙂 love love love your blog!
Oh my gosh! I wish I could have been there! I was visiting my parents that weeks , so i was probably baking for them and then doing some shopping.
Oh my! June 29th seems like ages ago. I still feel like I can confidently say I was reading a book that you recommended! I FREAKIN’ love your blog. Meeting you at a the Book Bash would have been cool (except I wasn’t there!)
Looks awesome! Gutted I wasn’t there but it was a bit far to travel from the UK!
So, when will we get to see the videos then? xx
Looks awesome!! Wish I could have been there! Next time! ;0) xo
Congrats again! On twe 29th I was home being jealous of everyone who was attending Book Bash. It looks like everyone had a fantastic time!!!!
The 29th well reading of course!!! Wish I could have been there. Love your blog!!
Wow, you had so much fun!! You’re kind of a rock star, LOL.
Wish I could have been there. I really enjoyed reading this blog. Have a great day!
Awesome….
Sounds like a great time…uhmmmm, I was probably trying to whittle down my TBR pile…thanks for the giveaway!
i was there having the best time ever!!! can’t wait to do it again:)
I am so jealous!!!! Wish I could have been there, you met all my favorite authors!
Saturdays are date day for the hubby and me so we went and had lunch.
Love your daily blog! On 6/29 I was on my last day of vacation…
I was at the beach enjoying the sun. I was playing with my kids and reading a book on my iPad in between. Loved your photos from Book Bash!
Holy Hell Batman I want to win this so bad! I love reading and seeing the pictures of how awesome everything turned out. We would love to know the details of how everything worked as a fan/some who attended. I’m already saving my $$$ so I can come this year!! It truly looks like the best time.
I love reading about your adventures at Book Bash!
Awesome giveaway!!! On 6/29 I was at the airport on my way to Portugal!!!
Book Bash looks like fun. But my weekend has to be a close second b/c it was the weekend I discovered EIT through your blog and spent every waking hour with Dex.
I was at Book Bash!!! And had the best time!
Wow, would love to win this!! PIck me 🙂
Totally wish I could’ve went to book bash but my bestie and I were in STL celebrating our dirty 30 birthdays =X our hubby’s bought us concert tickets to the package tour that Sunday so we left Saturday to go 🙂
Thanks for the giveaway, I believe I was working :O
[email protected]
Wishing I was at BOOK BASH!!!!
June 29th was girls night out. This is another awesome give away!
June 29th, I was at my son’s 15U baseball tournament and of course I had my Kindle with me for between game reading! Sooooo hope next year I am at Book Bash!
This is a great give away! And while my hubby & daughter were at SeaWorld on Saturday, June 29, I was actually hanging out with YOU & all the other fabulous authors, assistants, volunteers and other readers/fans at BookBash!!! What a great day that was . . . can’t wait for next year!! You did a fantastic job!! 🙂
I loved reading all the stories, looking at the pictures…
Next year I am going to try to go for sure.
June 29th I was driving from N. Carolina to Kansas. I was wearing light tan pants with a pink t-shirt.
Thanks for a chance to win!
Love the article and pictures! Would LOVE to be able to attend next year!!
Hmmm…probably working as usual! Lol
Your writing is hilarious. Maybe you should think about writing books.
Thanks for the chance to win some SWAG.
On June 29 I was trying my best to be happy instead of jealous for those attending the Book Bash. NEXT YEAR!
fun swag! pick me!
Love hearing about Book Bash & seeing your pictures. Nest year I hope I can be there! On Saturday the 29th, I was reading for sure, but I would guess I was also playing that damn CANDY CRUSH! AHHHH! I;m addicted. It’s so dumb, I know, but I can’t help it-I play until I run out of lives, beg friends for more lives, read a couple hours & go back. I wonder if there is a support group. 🙂
Would love to win, but can’t remember what I was doing. I’m sure it wasn’t as exciting as BookBash!
I was at my daughter’s state fastpitch tournament. They didn’t do very well, So a book bash swag prize would sure erase the bad memeories with great ones!!
Paul M is sooo fine! lucky you. That looked like a lot of fun.
I was wishing I was at book bash.
glad you had such an amazing time! thanks for sharing it with us!
Looks like so much fun!! I was on vacation with my family wishing I was there at book bash instead, lol. Hope I can come next year!
I am so jealous I was stuck at home renovating, not even reading my awesome to be read pile! an awesome Book Bash Swag prize would totally cheer me up!
Awesome pictures. I hope I can attend next time. I have no idea what I was doing on June 29th.
I think I was at the movies seeing “The Heat” with a few friends. So jealous I couldn’t be there this year. Next year for sure!
The book bash sounds awesome and thanks for describing everything to all of us who couldn’t make it.
I was working 🙁 it looks like so much fun though I would love to have gone! Maybe someday
On 6/29 I was crying in my room since I could not make it to BookBash.
There is always next year…right???
Are you kidding me?? I cant remember what I did yesterday 🙂
Great write up! It sounds like such a fun and successful event! I have no idea what I was doing on June 29, but it was probably the usual exciting Saturday evening with my hubby and eight month old. Usually I’m reading on the couch while he takes baby duty for the day. 🙂
Truly looks like you had a blast! So excited that you got to meet some of my very favorite authors. Keep up the great blog work!
I was wishing I was in Orlando for Book Bash on June 29, 2013. I think we may have gone out to eat or dancing or something. :/
Book Bash sounded like so much fun, but I was spending the day with my family for my niece’s 3rd birthday party.
I was on my sail boat, with the fam, sailing around the San Juan islands trying to convince my husband it would be fun to go to De’Arcy Island 🙂
Thanks for the giveaway!!! Love your blog 🙂
Omg I would LOVE to win this!! With 4 kids it’s hard to go to Book Bash myself but I would to win some swag! 😉
OH Man.. I think I was reading Conquer Your Love by J.C. Reed!! 😀
I can’t go more than a couple days without checking your blog !! lol Love it!
Love your blog! Looks like you had a great time!!
I was on vacation with my family that day. Unfortunately, one of my kiddos was sick, so I was stuck in a hotel room cleaning vomit while my husband took our other three kids to the zoo with their extended family. (That’s a pretty sad story, so I totally deserve a bag, right!?!?) 🙂
Looked like a BLAST! Wish I was there. I was working 🙁
I can’t remember exactly, but I know at some point I was reading!!! Looks like an unforgettable time!
I love reading these posts! Thanks for sharing your experience…and for the giveaways 🙂
Sitting on my patio reading and drinking wine, while my awesome chef of a husband prepared dinner. Book Bash looks like so much fun! Who doesn’t want to be surrounded by books and authors all day…….heaven in my mind!! Thanks for the giveaway chances!!!
On July 29th I dragged my mom along with me to Book Bash. She ended up having so much fun with me, meeting so many genuinely nice authors and great readers. Fantastic event!
Maryse, I wish I were with you that day! Obviously you need someone to walk with you and record all your moments so you can remember them later. I will volunteer for that next year.
I was missing book bash with my friends due to emergency surgery! Hope I win to make up for missing it!!!!!
I was packed in the car with my husband and 3 children traveling 10 hours to Orange Beach, AL. Definitely not having the fun you were having Maryse!
I was at my grandsons last t-ball game!!
Hi Maryse! Thanks for the great giveaway! On Saturday June 29th 2013, I was at home helping my husband get ready to host an Open House. Later that night, I unwinded with a great book, Faking It, by Cora Carmack.
I’m loving your Book Bash blogging/pics! I’d love to attend next year’s! It looks like y’all had sooo much fun:)
Looks like everyone had a great time. . . .
I was taking my kids to birthday parties but wishing I was at book bash! Looks like yall had fun
I wish I could’ve been there. I know whatever I was doing that day was not as fun as Book Bash!!
I was sadly at work as a nurse instead of playing at Bookbash, would definitely been there had my bestfriend/book buddy not moved from Fl to Texas!
I was celebrating MIL B-day with Family and Friends….but I so would have loved to have been there…thanks for sharing! Please pick me…The Opportunist is one of my top 5 books ever!
OH MY GOD!!! I SO HAVE TO BE AT NEXT YEARS BOOK BASH!!!
Wish I could have been there is sounds like it was an amazing time!!!
I’m so glad that a little over a year ago I stumbled across your book blog. It’s been a wonderful guide for me and many others. Your enthusiasm for books is infectious!!!!!
I was probably sitting around wishing I was at book bash! Looks like so much fun!!
maybe watching a movie
I can remember exactly what I was doing unfortunately. I was at home in bed sick with a nasty sinus infection. But not even being sick can keep me from reading which I am highly addicted to according to my husband. I was actually reading The Game Changer by J. Sterling which I am sure you already know the author. LOL. Would love to attend a BOOK BASH event!!!!
New to your site and love it!!!!!
I’m not sure what I was doing on June 29, 2013 but at some point I was READING!!! Please tell us how to be in on the next Book Bash!!!
June 29th is my birthday! I’m not above begging — PLEASE pick me!!!
Loved reading that book bash post – such fun insight!
I love the Book Bash Chronicles!! Thank you Maryse!
I so want to attend Book Bash if you have it again next year. I’d love to be a volunteer!
I’m sure I was reading during Book Bash 🙂
Looks like it was a blast!!
I cannot remember what I was doing, probably reading and having a glass of wine.
WOW this looks awesome Maryse! Haha I was probably reading!
I remember everything!Two of the best days ever!!I know we are suppose to be talking about Saturday BUT when I meet Kristen Ashley and she told me I had beautiful skin and couldn’t believe I was mother to my grown daughter that was with me.I smiled alot more and alot wider all weekend.At the end of the night I thought bummer I missed Madeline but nope as I was leaving the event I spot her in the lobby and start squelling like a teenage girl(Not attractive on a grown woman)She put me out of my misery by approaching me to converse and take a picture.EPIC WEEKEND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I love reading about book bash!
I was probably home, reading or surfing the web.
I’m sure on that Saturday, I was at home wishing I was at Book Bash!
I’m sure I was home reading a book. That’s usually my MO. Thanks for the giveaway! SO jealous you got to go to Book Bash!
Thanks for the Book Bash Chronicles!!!!
I was celebrating my birthday on Saturday June 29th 🙂
I was on vacation with my family. Your Chronicles are fabulous!!!! Thanks for the giveaway.
Had poison ivy that weekend & 1st wk of July so I was @ home doing nothing, scratching & sleeping (Benadryl).
Jami,
You are so lucky! I would have loved to talk with Kristen Ashley.
I flew home from Orlando on the 29th. Would have extended my trip if I could have gotten tickets…still crying 🙁 So many talented people in one place, maybe next year!
Fingers crossed! We had gotten to our trailer
Earlier in the week once school was done so we were hanging by the lake!
I was at Book Bash and enjoying every minute of it. All your hard work paid off and I can’t thank you enough for a wonderful, exciting and awesome event. Can’t wait till next year!!!
I was most likely reading a novel or shopping at the mall. This is an awesome giveaway. Fingers tightly crossed
Looks like it was a blast!! Wish I had been there.