I’ve been living, breathing and eating (okay maybe not eating ;)) Book Bash for months now, and it ended up being everything I hoped it would be and more! I can honestly say that I have never had so much fun in my life. The most fun I’ve ever had condensed into three (no… four) days of what seemed like 24-hour non-stop excitement. Sleep? What sleep? If I slept, I don’t remember. 😉
Such amazing energy, non-stop hugs, finally meeting my fellow readers that I’ve been conversing with for months (years?) on my Facebook and blog. And finally meeting so many of our favorite authors. There are no words for that. Being surrounded by such a happy, enthusiastic bunch of like-minded people.
I was home.
Pair all of that with the non-stop *squees* and bear-hugs, photo after photo, I just couldn’t help but beam throughout. I wondered if my cheeks would hurt from smiling so hard, but nope. The constant adrenaline kept me from feeling anything but elated.
So here’s how it went:
Wednesday night, was my last night to get all of my final ducks in a row (packing all of the badges, t-shirts, swag, last minute shipments that arrived, printouts, banners and signs etc..) I had list after list of “to do’s” and “lists to print”. Guest lists, assistant lists, volunteer lists, t-shirt pickup lists, lists, lists and more lists. Considering how much of a listmaker I am, you’d think I was in my element. And I was! LOL!
All of the major details were in place and already handled, but this was the “fun stuff” that I thought would be easy to complete the day before we left. HA! That is until I realized it was 3am and I was still running around like a chicken without a head, clucking… er… I mean checking off my lists. Stuff that was printing out wrong, double printing, not printing… getting a call from my Pak ‘n Post service letting me know that I had a bunch of boxes that had just arrived.”Great!!” I said, “more fun stuff for everyone!” And when I got there, it looked like an entire van-load! OMG! YAY!!! and OMG GAH!!! 😉
That’s okay, Thursday morning with the van fully loaded, we were happy to realize that we managed to get pretty much everything in, and one of our best friends (whom many of you have met as he was one of the camera guys) would stop over and pick up the rest.
All was right with the world!
And let me tell you, once I arrived at the hotel, I was SO nervous. I knew a bunch of authors and readers were already there (vacationing before the big day as I had been seeing their tweets), and I was full of anticipation. Who would I see? Who could I hug? Who would I know? Well… as it turns out, I hyped myself up for an early hotel lobby party already in progress and showed up to… perfect calm. Which calmed me. *phew*
So I moseyed on over to where my husband was unpacking and I could finally start sniffing around those mystery boxes. I just had to see what was inside. Books? But of course! Who’s books? I couldn’t help but open one.
Tee hee! Hey! What? They were addressed to me, so it’s okay, right? I couldn’t help it, and anyway, I knew I’d be having to open them sooner or later to figure out where they went.
(side note: these boxes held the books that would be given to the authors in their very own “Book Bash” swag bags, sponsored by Forever Romance (Grand Central/Hachette)!! They sent some AWESOME totes and fun stuff for the authors! AND!! There were cases of books that were for the Book Bash volunteers, sponsored by HarperCollins!)
And look at the gorgeous surprise waiting for me! Whoa. The Edge of Never!! They used my quote on the cover!! Now THAT… I wasn’t expecting, but what a way to start off my Book Bash experience! *thud!!!*
Then, as I was finalizing some paperwork with the hotel event manager in the lobby… Colleen Hoover saunters on by. I say “Hi Colleen!” and she comes over for hugs. I introduced her to two members of my event team (Eddie and Jill) and off she went. As Jill (the hotel manager) and I continued chatting, Jill admits to being an avid reader but wasn’t sure if I’d know any of the books she likes. I ask her to name her favorite, and do you know what title she gives me?
“Ummm… well a book called… Slammed?”
LOL!!! YES!!!! I said OMG, do you know who you just met? Ahhhh that reaction (from both her AND my own, was priceless). After naming a few more of her favorites (including “The Secret of Ella and Micha“) I knew we were at the right hotel, and I think she was pleased, too.
Yep! Thursday was as easy going as could be, and I was so happy to have met a bunch more of “us” that night. It made going into the big day that much easier ’cause I got by with a little help from my friends. 😉
What I learned that night?
- I’ve been pronouncing Karina Halle’s name all wrong!! WHAT!?? I was appalled at myself. I’ve been pronouncing it “Karina Hall” when actually “Halle” is pronounced like “Halle Berry”. Karina Hall-ie. *whoops* 😉
- The reason that Chelsea M. Cameron uses her initial “M” in her name is so that her search results are not confused with in another popular “Cameron” in the search engines.
- Kristen Ashley has an awesome sister that I ran into about a gazillion times throughout the weekend, and she even saw me at my worst, one morning. I had a surprise super-early start to my Friday (a mis-delivery), and her offer of help was so sweet (that story to come…). I feel close to her. 😉 May I have her as a sister, too, Kristen?
-
Fellow reader (and so fun!!) Leanne, and Maryse Fun and gorgeous Australian fellow-readers are a blast! They even wanna stick out their tongues with you for goofy photo ops!
- CJ Roberts is WAY cool. Wait. Right. We already knew that one. But she totally is!! 😉
- Never shovel Harry Potter jelly beans into your mouth aimlessly unless you know what flavor your eating, first. “Popcorn” looking-flavored jelly beans might not actually BE popcorn flavored. I heard there was some serious gagging going on… 😉
-
Maryse and Sherry! She was there for me, first thing Thursday afternoon, and held my hand (and my stuff) the entire weekend! *hug* Thank you, Sherry!! My mom likes to tell childhood stories about me every chance she gets.
MOOOOMMMM!! 
- Our mini-van can hold MUCH more than we expected (thank goodness for that!!)
- When my friend Sherry promises to hold my hand throughout the entire event, she MEANS it!! (Thank you, Sherry!!!)
- Our GPS is good at getting us to the airport to pick up friends, but not so good at getting us back to our hotel. Scenic route through Orlando, anyone? Sure! But at 1am? Not so much.
- Book Bash official Day 1: Feeling Good!
More to follow… (see the photos from Thursday night, below).
Ready for that giveaway? We came home with a few extra Book Bash t-shirts, swag bags and a WHOLE LOTTA swag. I’m giving away a Book Bash “swag” kit tonight!
A couple of books (I received a few books in duplicate so I keep one, and you get one!), 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, free ebook codes, lipgloss from Sylvia Day, cute stuffed turtle from Turtle Tear Island (Kelli Maine), a steamy 😉 hand fan from Kallypso Masters– 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 Thursday June 27th 2013 
), and tomorrow night (Tuesday July 9th, 2013) by 10pm EST, I will randomly select one winner.
The winner 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!!).
Check out BOOK BASH CHRONICLES PART TWO (Friday’s setup and pre-registration party) and BOOK BASH CHRONICLES PART THREE (Saturday’s main event!).
Here are some of Thursday’s highlights (it was like a pre-mini-bookbash at the hotel bar!):
Ty for the giveaway! Would love to win it. I won a ticket to go but I couldn’t make it. I was sad.
This looks amazing!
I was reading!!
Sadly, I had to miss BB as I was moving on June 27. But I didn’t have a blast seeing all the photos posted by my favorite authors that I stalk…whoops I mean follow…on Facebook and Twitter.
Sharon
Yea! I so wish I was able to go to Book Bash. On Thursday, I was working on 2 term papers for school. I am finally in my last semester and it is killing me.
I LOVE all of your book suggestions…you have definitely got me one-clicking like a maniac!!! Much love!!
Thanks so much for the opportunity Maryse!!! What was I doing on Thursday, June 27? Wishing I was at book bash as I followed all the amazing posts from you, my fave authors, and my friends that were able to attend!
I was finishing reading “Death Rejoices (The Marnie Baranuik Files #2)”
I would love to win this since I could not go. Maybe next year.
I’d love to win…great giveaway!
I want to win a swag bag! RWA is coming to Atlanta at the end of the month, and I can’t go, so I’ll be missing those goodies. Let’s see, on June 27th, I was sadly not in Orlando, although that looks like fun.
C.D.
Super giveaway. ON the 27th I was reading a book as always.
On Thursday, June 27th, I was home packing for Book Bash! It was such a great event, Maryse! Thanks for all your hard work that went into planning it 😀
I’m so excited to have a chance to win a Book Bash giveaway! I was supposed to go, but couldn’t get off work 🙁 You’re pictures are awesome! Thank you for letting us live vicariously through you!
-Selena ♥
Reading is just about my favorite thing to do. However, on that day, I was doing my absolute favorite thing. I was watching my daughter at her majorette showcase.
i was only helping out the authors i PA for lol
Man I wish I could have been there! It sounds like it was a ton of fun!
I didn’t get to come either. I am still mad about it but would totally feel better if I won something awesome.
On Thursday June 27th I was reading Come Alive by Karina Halle and enjoying every second of it! So jealous I couldn’t be there!
Another great giveaway!!
I wish I could’ve been at the book bash. It looks like it was loads of fun and it would have been great to meet so may great people as well as the authors I love to read.
I was reading Thursday night.
So jealous y’all in the US get to go to all these fab signings. Perhaps we can have one in Australia soon?!!!
Oh wow, it looks like you had an awesome time!!! SO jealous!!! Thanks for hosting the giveaway!
-So
What a great prize pack.
I love reading your blog!! Good information from good people!! I was working July 27th,but tonight I’m with my family celebrating my son’s 15th birthday!! I would live to be picked but am just happy to have a chance!!
On that Thursday, I was packing and snuggling with the puppy before dropping him off at the kennel. Book Bash was a lot of fun, and I met some amazing new friends!
Sounds like it was so much fun. Wish I could have made it. I was actually on my own little getaway that day. Soaking up the dessert sun in the pool! Thanks for the giveaway!
Looks like fun wish I could have gone!!
Wishing I was at Book Bash and reading!!
What was I doing? Working 🙁 and wishing I was at Book Bash meeting yourself and all the amazing authors!!! 🙂
On Thursday, June 27th I was in the Midwest day dreaming about Book Bash!!
I wish I could have but I love hearing about it. I was reading Accidentally in love with a god…funny!
I am SO attending next year 🙂
Reading AND Reading!!!
Always your blog or one of your BTR’s
From my iCalendar: 3 kids dentist appointment, VBS, and the Best Books and Bras party with my book club. Thanks to Maryse’s Book Blog, my book was Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
I was working out of town on that Thursday. I would love to win some book bash stuff 🙂 thanks
I love seeing pics from BB.
Well, on Saturday morning of Book Bash, my girlfriend and I were having way too much fun sitting at the Starbucks and watching a handful of authors arrive. Perhaps most fun we had was noticing the Walgreen’s bag he left and came back with. Oh the assumptions we made about the contents of that bag!!! Scandalous indeed!!!!
To be honest..on the 27th my husband was at work until 10:45, so I was probably playing Candy Crush..shame on my friends who got me sucked into the Candy Crush saga! Addicted! 🙂
I’ve never wanted to go to any event more than this. I’m hoping *fingers crossed* that there’s one next year! I was actually grocery shopping that night. 🙁
Oh, maybe I should disclose who had that Walgreen’s bag — it was Dr Ivan Rusilko!
That ones easy, on June 27 I was at home moping that I wasn’t going to Book Bash, lol!
I wish I could have gone! Awesome giveaway!
Fun! Thank you! I was re-reading getting ready for This Man Confessed
Can’t wait to hear more! While you we’re meeting my fav Kristen Ashley, I was reading Rock Chick Rescue, and dreaming of moving to Denver and working at Fortnum’s.
Thanks for sharing! I was at my children’s softball game that night …
Let’s see..stayed up late reading the Black Dagger Brotherhood…soooo loving this series. Thanks for all the recommendations Maryse!! Oh, and tomorrow night i’m taking the kids to a movie (Despicable me 2)!! Fun!!
I was reading and distracting myself from the fact I was NOT at Book Bash!
Me want swag… Happy to pay postage to Australia- please 🙂
I’m pretty sure I was reading EIT- Come Alive
I was working. Boo…
I’m so sad I missed Book Bash!!!! 🙁 It looks like you had a BLAST!
I was at home reading Reckless to try to have something to say to S.C. Stephens and catch up to those who had finished the series. I ended up talking about Collision Course (amazing book) & my Wonder Woman cup I was drinking from.
On June 26, I was recovering from my daughters birthday. We went to see Wickednthe musical and I made her dress and my blouse, so my sewing station became a big mess.
I sooooooooo wish I could have made it to Book Bash but I instead saw my darling youngest daughter graduate Pre-K in a cap and gown and I wouldn’t have missed it for the world!!!
I so wish I had been able to go to Book Bash! Every time I see a picture of someone with Kristen Ashley I get so jealous!
BB looks so much fun. I want to go next year.
Love your blog. Book bash sounds like a high from heaven.
I was chillin at the beach reading “Bad Things”!
On Thursday, June 27th I was kicking myself in the arse for not choosing the book bash tickets as my prize in the contest you held. I just didn’t have the money to travel. I did however get a signed copy of Collide by Gail McHugh so that’s a bonus!!
I was home in Texas wishing I was on my was to Book Bash!! Maybe next year…
So that Thursday I was in New Orleans for a work conference,having a stuffy dinner, wondering if I could escape, rent a car and drive to Book Bash:)
Sounds like a great time!!!
I really wish I could of made book bash! Hopefully I make future book bashes!!
I am so tad I stumbled across your blog last year. I hit a reading lull because I was having trouble picking books to read. I was never really into vampire books but a friend talked me into reading twilight and I liked it. Then I found your blog and discovered Black Dagger Brotherhood….Swoon!! The last 100 books I’ve read have been books you have posted reviews about my most recent being the beautiful disaster series! Omg I don’t know why I didn’t read it sooner. I’ve decided to cheat on Vishous and Z with Travis! 😉
Anyway you rock and keep the good book recommendations coming! :)))
Addendum to last post. Should be *glad not tad lol 🙂
Great photos and it looks like you had a fantastic time! I was helping my kid sister apply for her first job then later that night I went to work. It was a productive day that day! 😀 Thanks for the giveaway!
I was at home watching the facebook boards for updates and taking care of my newborn baby. She’s the reason I missed coming to BB 🙁 I do get to meet KA next Friday 🙂 as she’s coming to Atlanta. And I will be leaving my new baby girl at home for the first time…
I was getting excited for book bash!!! I loved it and I can’t wait until next years!!!!
I was reading Kresley Cole’s MacRieve to the wee hours. Congrats on putting together a fantastic event.
I was working on grad school papers both nights 🙁
I can’t remember what I was doing. But I know I wasn’t at book bash.
It was awesome meeting you! you were so tiny in person and beautiful! I was packing for book bash thursday the 27th!!!
OMG……i so wish i could have been there! It looks like a blast! The 27th was my brothers birthday so i was babysitter for them and tomorrow is karate night for the kids. The joys of being a mom although i wouldn’t change a thing!
June 27th I was taking a Chemistry Final Exam. Wish I could’ve made the event!
Looks like you had so much fun! I <3 seeing all the fun pics!
Driving to indiana lol
I’m so happy that everything went so well for you!! It looks amazing and I wish I could’ve been there! I was snuggling my 5-month old baby girl Thursday and dreaming of Book Bash!
Wish I could have been at the event
Thursday evening I was with the ill one at Animal Kingdom. Was so cool to return to the hotel and see many readers and authors!! Book Bash rocked Maryse!!! You did a fabulous job!! Oh and I really would like to win all that swag!!!!!
I was babysitting for my great-grandson and reading on my Kindle.w
I was helping my in-laws pack up their house to move
I was watching the Baltimore Orioles and reading White Trash Beautiful.
I definitely was not at book bash!!!! Thanks for the wonderful giveaway….
Love reading about the event, so much fun. Thursday, June 27 I was at the beach finally reading Real!
OMG I would LOVE to win! I need some new reads!!!!
I so wish I could have been there.
I was reading Joyland on Thurs:) Hate that I missed out on Book Bash!
Thursday June 27th? I was looking after my 3 Gremlins… Ooops, I mean children 😉 And reading when I got the chance to. Two out of my three children are on the autism spectrum, and the youngest son in non-verbal, so my reading time is sacred!
I was wishing there was a way for me & my twin sister to be able to go….maybe next year???
I’m so jealous! I wanted to go so bad and meet everyone. Want to know what I was doing pretty much all last week? Complaining to my husband about his stupid schedule that kept me from joining you at book bash! LOL
On the 27th I was regretting not getting tickets for bb since I’m only like 2 hours away from Orlando….but instead I was at home with my husband and our 4 beautiful kids!!
Unfortunately I couldn’t make it to book bash, so I gave my tickets to a friend and she went in my place. Regret not going and every post I see makes me so jealous of everyone that could attend. Your giveaways are always drool worthy!
Just hanging at home… in southwestern Ontario, reading one of my 4 books on the go!
I don’t remember what I was doing on the 27 but, I was probably reading, as always.
Book Bash was one of the funnest events I’ve ever been to. I arrived in Orlando on Thur and then drove to Tampa with a friend to pick up our other friend XD Met CJ Roberts down by the pool once we were at the hotel… I was way too shy to say anything… I barely choked out my name but at least I got to talk to her on Saturday XD
Wishing there was a way I could have been there! Maybe next year!!
Thursday night I was at an advanced screening of the Lone Ranger. Better than I expected (we had fun!) and Armie Hammer? Dreamy 🙂
Can’t wait for Book Bash 2014!! Woo Hoo!!!!
I was working on the 27th, but wishing I was in Florida
So jealous. Wish I could have been there! Sounds like a lot of fun.
I was hanging out with my girls enjoying the summer holidays.
I was at the Doubletree in Orlando getting ready for my vacation and book bash to begin!!!!!!
I was at my son’s allstar baseball practice reading my Kindle, wishing I was at bookbash!!
So jealous!!!! I was on vacation with my family at a Dude Ranch…but next year I will be at Book Bash!!
I soooo wish I could have been there. Glad to hear you fun enough for both of us.
That Thursday I was totally thinking about how I was just in Florida the weekend before! Man I wish I had a ticket for that event, but as it was I met Karen Marie Moning the weekend before and it was hella amaze-balls!
Had to miss the event this year but hoping to make it to the next one. Looked like an awese event.
I am seriously butterflying jealous of your book bash experience! On Thursday I was wishing I was at Book Bash but was at the Zoo!
Looks like you all had a blast at book bash. I was moving my daughter who is getting married in 12 days! :0
Thanks for all the great lists. Never been disappointed by books on your lists.
Reading…….I’m always reading. Pick me!!!
Probably watching TV and reading or pinning on Pinterest?
Thursday, June 27th I was in Savannah, GA visiting in-laws on my way down to Book Bash. It was such a wonderful event and I posted our picture together:) Funny thing is, tonight I’m working on a sort of scrapbook to put all my pics, autographs, and swag stuff together in one place! Thanks for putting it all together! Loved it!
I was working. =( YUCK! Wishing I was at Book Bash! Thanks for the giveaway! =)
Work, eat supper, shower, and relax a few minutes reading. About the only thing that changes is what book I’m reading!! :/
I am jealous! I would have loved to be there. I would have pronounced katrina’s name incorectly as well….I always said it like Hail not Hal-ee. Thursday I was at work that evening cleaning medical offices as I will be tomorrow night as well. I would be beyond excited to be chosen for the swag bag. Thank you for this opportunity. I am glad you had a great time.
I was wishing I was heading to Book Bash on 6/27/13. Is next years date set? I will not miss the next one!
See it is Karina not Katrina (silly smartphone)
I am going next year!!!!!!!! I want to met Karina and Kristen……….OMG I think when I see my favorite authors I will SQUEEE so loud..and then you Maryse!! I want to met you and all the ladies from your blog and FB, And i will probably cry after, seriously,I will :-)THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!
On June 27 I was on vacation in South Haven MI…..and tomorrow night I will be relaxing at home because my daughter is having a sleepover at grandmas! Great giveaway!
Thursday night I was home wishing I was at book bash. thanks for the great give away!
Sounds like so much fun!
Glad you had a great time. Wish I could have made it!
I was sitting at work….pouting…..day dreaming….of book bash!!!!!!!!
On June 27th I was studying for organic chemistry and wishing I was at book bash!!!
I am hoping BookBash is something that is done yearly… Would love to attend next year!
June 27, 2013 was the day after my 42nd b-day and the 4th day of my birthday week (I received tickets to see John Mayer at the Gorge that day)… Yes, I am a bit spoiled 😉
Tomorrow I am taking my son shopping for his first dorm room.
I hope I win!!
I was def wishing I was headed to Book Bash! Next year!
On Thursday, June 27th I was celebrating my husband’s birthday WHILE…packing for book bash 🙂 I had such an awesome time!! It was so well organized and I loved, loved, loved meeting some of my fave authors! I met a lot of new friends as well at the pre-registration party and the after party as well as when standing in line. Awesome job Maryse!!
Great giveaway Maryse! On Thursday June 27th I was in Orlando, but with my kids at Disney World! When I found out Bookbash was scheduled the same time as our Disney Trip, I about freaked out! I couldn’t leave my husband with our 3 year old and 4 year old, he couldn’t handle them!
Oh I remember exactly what I was doing. The 27th was the last day of school up here in Ontario. After spending the week rushing around getting teacher’s gifts and baking cupcakes for 3 kids (add in a year end piano concert and a soccer game) I was flaked out on the couch with a glass of wine. (and I do believe there was chocolate consumed) Wish I’d been a book bash….would have been less stress and more fun 😉
I was reading on the 27th and going o read tomorrow I can’t stop. I’m a school teacher so my summers I read and read
So jealous you met CJ Roberts!!!!!
I wish I could have been there! I was reading and spending time with my two kids. Great giveaway!! 🙂
On June 27th I was reading Surviving Raine that I heard about from YOU!!! Can’t thank you enough for that one because I LOVED LOVED LOVED it!!! Thanks for sharing the Book Bash stories and pics. 🙂
I can’t remember, but I was probably trying to get the kids to bed so I could read!
I was reading and watching my son play his xbox! Also thinking about all the awesome stuff happening at Book Bash!! Oh I wish I could of been there! I love reading your post about it!!
Wish I could have been there! ! Next year for sure!!
On Thursday June 27th I was at a race track watching my friend practice for a big race on that Saturday.
June 27…I was recovering from ya-ya surgery (ugh!) but….was indulging in super yummy cupcakes from one of my besties! And reading The Blackstone Affair Trilogy! Loved it!
I want to come next year!!!
Ooooooooooh maybe next time book bash could be Puerto Rico….fun in the sun ; )
I want to win spool badly! I was supposed to go to Book Bash but a week before I had to have emergency surgery for a bowel obstruction and spent 8 days in the hospital….which caused me to miss it!!! So on June 27th I was in the hospital and completely bummed out! On July 9th I’ll be home crossing my fingers that I win while I finish This Man Confessed!”
Thursday June 27th I was sitting at home reading, slacking off on my wife and mother duties! Tomorrow I am sure I will be doing the same thing.
So jealous! I wish I could have been there. Looks like it was beyond amazing 🙂
On June 27th, I was at home reading and wishing I was attending Book Bash. I hope to make it there next year so I can have fun too!
I was shopping for a little black dress for my night out after Book Bash… 🙂
On June 27, I spent the day with my 5-year-old son and of course read!
Watching crazy episodes on ID and reading a book. It seems I can do everything else AND read AT all times. huh so good to know…
June 27th…..sitting on my back porch in beautiful northern Idaho, feet kicked up reading my kindle 😉
Hmmm…. My iCalendar says I was working. Definitely not as much fun as you Maryse.
I worked during the day and read ambrosia that night!
pffff I have no clue what I did this morning….what was I doing? Well that morning I had a Zumba class…ummmm I know for sure I was reading hehehe.
What an awesome giveaway! On June 27th I was at work….wish I could have been at Book Bash!
Ahhhmazing giveaway! You rock Maryse… On the 27th unfortunately I was headed the opposite direction from where I wanted to stay to attend book bash, fam and I were driving the 20 hr drive home from Orlando!!!! Can’t believe I couldn’t get the vaca extended for my love of books!!
Thursdays = baseball games:)
Love your blog! I was in Columbus, GA preparing to see my sweet nephew who is in Basic Training at Fort Benning Army Base. I was reading Perfect for You by Kate Perry.
Wow! What was I doing on June 27? That’s a Thursday so it was family dinner night with my daughter and grand kids. We always have a blast.
Wow, looks like you had an awesome time at Book Bash!! 😀 I had work sadly, but just means I can afford more books xD
June 27 I was taking a final for school. But I still managed to sneak a peek here and there at some of my favorite authors instagram pages!!!
I was working, hanging out with my kids, and reading a book.
Hey, amazing prize there. On the 27th I was so tired from working hard I could barely read my latest book. On the 9th I work at the salt mine until six , then come home, eat, watch television, and read. That’s about it!
I was doing what I do every night….reading after I put my babies to bed;-)
Great giveaway!
WOW-Amazing!!!
I was getting a sunburn at the beach in Port Aransas TX !!!
On the 27th, I wish I was at book bash, but I was in Vegas celebrating my 10th anniversary! Can’t complain ;). On the night of the 9th, I’ll be working at the hospital.
Hmmm, I can’t remember back that far 🙁
I can’t even remember what I had for lunch today! But safe guess is I was reading something by Karina Halle…A younger Madam Maryse shows up in The Devil’s Metal too I found out recently. Great giveaway-thanks!
I take any of the swag! What was I doing on the 27th? READING of course!
At my daughter’s cheerleading practice! Fun stuff
Would have loved to have gone to Book Bash!! On June 27….I was probably reading, as I am most nights 🙂
On June 27, I was wishing that the Book Bash was on the West Coast:)
I was either reading or sleeping. Like always.
what was i doing june 27, on a boat with the kids and hubby. I want my daughter and me to go to a book bash so bad.
Watching my secret shame, Rookie Blue.
I was reading lisa kleypas’ Hathaway series!! Wonderful family of characters and each book is better than the next! A must read!
I was avoiding the SoCal heat by staying indoors.
So jealous of all the fun I missed out on! I was prob at home that night wishing I could be there! Thanks for the chance at this awesome giveaway.
I was working…way too much!! Love your blog and pics from BB!
On June 27th I was working. Not very exciting:) Book Bash looks like it was a lot of fun!!! Hopefully next year I will be able to make it there!
Lets seeeee….. lol I was starting Vishous story that night! Love the BDB series loveeeeee it! Thank you for suggesting it!
Great giveaway! On June 27th, I was doing what I’m always doing…reading and shutting out the world!
Giving my 10 year old cousin Ella her first Roald Dahl novel for her birthday 🙂
I would love to win some awesome swag! June 27th I was with my beading group making some great jewelry. Tonight is date night with the hubby.
Great giveaeay !! On June 27th, I was doing what I’m always doing…reading, and baking an awesome cake ( Chocoflan) and shutting out the world !
Looks like it was such a blast, I am still so jealous of everyone who went! Unfortunately I was on vacation with the hubby all week and for some reason he was not ok with changing our plans to spend part of it watching me go fangirl over so many amazing authors LOL
Aww! Thanks for sharing all the great pics and low down of how things went for you. So happy BB was a major success, maybe someday I will be able to attend! 🙂 Can’t remember what I did on 6/27, but tonight it looks like it’s a me and the Kindle kind of night!
On June 27th I was reading Delayed Penalty by Shey Stahl(a hockey bad boy) and wishing I was going to Book Bash! Thanks for sharing the treats!!!!
Sooooo jealous! You’re a VERY luck lady! Thanks for the chance to win.
Thursday night I was packing up for our book club road trip to Orlando! I had to make sure I had Walking Distaster all packed!
Love the pictures of you with the authors. Can’t wait to read more
About your weekend
I was reading and trying to patiently wait for Bookbash time.
I was fb stalking anyone I knew that would be at the BB and reading between stalking. 🙂
I have recently discovered this site, everyday I check it before I go to work. I work so I can afford all the great books you recommend.
Sadly, i was working.
I was home reading most of the night 🙂
Book Bash looks like it was awesome! I will have to get tickets next time as soon as they go on sale!
I wish I was there, hope to go next year!
Thanks for the giveaway. I can’t remember what I was doing yesterday…much less June 27th. Most likely I was reading.
Would love the giveaway and sorry I could not attend. But I spent that night the best way possible. I just discovered the EIT series that week, and by Thursday I was inside Dex Foray’s head (and swooning over the cover ever 5 minutes) in And With The Madness Comes the Light.
What was I doing on June 27th? Being completely jealous of everyone who could attend Book Bash! Next year hopefully!
Love Love Love all the pictures and getting to see Book Bash through your eyes. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I can make it this year. It looked amazing! Great work!!!
Omg that looked like so much fun. You do amazing work.
I was out in my garden picking weeds and collecting the fruits of my labor 🙂
Had to look back at the calendar to check out what I was doing on 27 June. This is such an obvious answer. I worked, upon arriving home, appropriated my lounging togs and read until about 10pm. I’m soooooo boring, however, at least I feed my obsession regularly?
I was working :(. Wish I was at BB!
What an awesome time! I wish I could have been there!!
I would LOVE to win and have a little piece of Book Bash for myself!
June 27th… couldn’t remember, so I checked Goodreads! Of course, I was reading!! I finished up Unteachable and started reading Leo!! 🙂
On June 27, 2013 I was reading and thinking of everyone attending the Book Bash (and silently pouting like a petulant child while silently kicking my own @#$ since I should have ordered tickets earlier). On July 9th, I will be at the office trying to sneak in a few chapters of Escape from Paradise while wishing I could go home to read more than a few chapters.
My son still had school up here in the northeast. So, yeah, that’s what I was doing. Making sure my son had a bath and good night sleep so he could get up for his last day of school. I so wanted to be there, maybe next year. I have family in New Port Richy, and my SIL may be persuaded to come. June is kind of tricky for me though – could you work around my schedule? lol
I was probably reading Dr. Seuss’s The Foot Book for the 500th time to my 2 yr. old daughter. Then late at night I was definitely reading a book from your blog. My Kindle is filled with them!
Celebrating my sister’s bday!!
Sounds like you had an amazing time!!! Very exciting to meet all the authors, I’ll make it to Book Bash one of these years!
Thank you for this generous give away!
Hi Maryse, I was reading Twisted Perfection! OHHH Woods!!!
Thursday was crazy, as I was preparing to leave work for a week and trying to make sure my fellow employees wouldn’t have to worry about my work while I was on vacation. I also felt like I was running around in crazy town! BB was fantastic!!
Wow BB sounds so amazing!!!! 🙂
Thursday…. Working at Starbucks and sneeking in some reading. Nothing I love more than coffee and books!!!
On Thursday, me & my sister began packing 2 cars with 4 teenagers. They were headed to Disney, and we were headed to BB. I had the ticket and she was going to beg for one. To our surprise, one of the volunteers gave her a ticket!!! We loved it. Later, we had tickets to the after party, and because someone had been so kind to give my sister tickets to BB, we gave our tickets to 2 people who really wanted to go to the after party. We decided to go to karaoke – our night on the town without husbands & kids. To our surprise – there was a party there! And we got seated front row!!! We are so going back next year – except we are flying, staying in the hotel and NO KIDS!!!!
Tooooooooo Cooool!!!!!
Wish I could have been there! Looks like you have a great event!
It looks like it was a weekend with your second family. Your extended book family !!! Hence all the fun pictures and stories. Can’t wait to hear more … Definitely something to look forward to annually !
So, so jealous!! Especially meeting Kristen Ashley!!!
Thursday during the day I was at work counting down the hours until my Book Bash 2013 Girl’s Weekend could begin. I had my to do list for Friday morning which included juicing 4 pineapples and packing the juice in a cooler for homemade fresh pina~coladas to enjoy by the pool. Great event and my friends Clarissa, Julie and I had a wonderful weekend.
I wish I could have been there, looks like you had a great time. That Thursday I was actually b-day shopping for myself since that Friday was my big 3 0. 🙂
On the 27th I was reading (what you said is) the first book is the Thompson Sisters series-A song for Julia. It was my Friday (in casino-land everybody has a “different” Friday) so I stayed up late like a big girl! Love your blog, I’d be lost with out you!
Looks like a great giveaway. Let’s see…..what was I doing on Thursday, June 27th…I was wishing I was at Book Bash while I was out entertaining my kids at the HOT Houston Zoo.
I was camping with the family relaxing with a good book.
Your enthusiasm (did i spell that right) is soo contageous.. Love your blog.. xoxox
On the 27th I was reading “Lick”. I am SO JEALOUS; you met Kristen Ashley!!!!!!!! I LOVE her. You too!!!:)
I would love to meet you and Kristen Ashley!!!!
I don’t even remember what I had for Dinner last night! LOL
On the 27th I was reading “Lick”. I am so JEALOUS; you met Kristen Ashley!!!! I LOVE her. You too!!!!! 🙂
I was spending time with my family 🙂
Trying to get my kids to sleep so I could get back to Defiance!
Wow – Book Bash looks awesome. I was reading (of course). My TBR pile just keeps getting bigger and bigger!
!!!wow!!!
wow! so wish i was a bb!! next year i want to go!!!
on the 27th i was reading over the out of breath series and this man confessed! to get ready for those tow books that came out on the 2!
thank you for this giveaway!!
I was at BB and had a total blast. I can’t wait for next years. I wasn’t able to get some of the bags that I hear were handed out since I ended up walking in through a different door (due to scanning issues, I think) so I would love to win some swag and books. 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing !!! Hope to make it next year!!! I was at Six Flags in Vallejo, CA enjoying rides with my family on the 27th:)
Unfortunately, I was working that day. Going to the Book Bash would’ve been so cool! Sigh…
I was reading (of course) Out of Breathe – – GREAT, GREAT BOOK!!!! And then I read This Man Confessed. Didn’t know where to go from there, so last night (after browsing your website) I downloaded and started Edge of Never – OMG!!! I am at 43% and so far ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS BOOK (Sea of Tranquility was also a fav of mine)!! Thanks again for another great recommendation Maryse! I am at work now and all I can think about is getting back to that book!!! Ugh!
I was spending the day shopping with my best friend in Santa Barbara. Wish I could have gone to the Book Bash;)
On Thursday, I was working and eagerly counting down the days to 4th of July break and the release date of MacRieve!
I had finals and couldn’t go 🙁 Me and my fried brain would have rather been swooning over book boyfriends and hugging authors 😉
I love your blog & your excitement is so contagious! On your recommendation, I’m reading Escape from Paradise…Holy smokes, I’m not sure I’m cut out for this, lol! I love to read and love that I have discovered someone who loves it more than me!
Looks like so much fun!
Looks like an amazing time! On Thursday, June 27th…I was reading instead of packing for my trip to NC!
I love your site. I check in at least twice a day
Looks like you had so much fun!!! I am so jealous! On June 27th I was moping because I couldn’t go to book bash!! 🙁 Great giveaway! Would be awesome to win! You are great Maryse!!!
Book Bash looks like SO much fun!!
What a great give away! Im super jealous of everyone that got to attend Book Bash!! On Thursday June 27th I was chatting with a few friends that I met on the discussion boards, and reading!
Thanks for the recap, sounds like so much fun! On the 27th I was working lots. After I went home, walked the dogs and settled in to continued reading Play With Me by Kristen Proby.
Just love your blog Maryse – and BTW you look beautiful in the pics from Book Bash. On June 27th I was reading Come Alive which I absolutely loved !!!
Wow!!! That book bash looked like a great time. Love at the details ; )
My son’s baseball game. Reading after I got home. 🙂
I am so bummed I wasn’t able to attend book bash. I have heard from so many what a awesome job you did!
I was working and wishing I could be there! And reading, of course! My job is pretty low key and I am allowed to read in my down time. I have my own office, so I can shut the door and get lost in a book for awhile. It has helped me put a dent in my TBR list which has grown tremendously since finding your blog!
Oh Maryse! I love hearing you talk about your book bash experience! It brings back all the excitement back. This was my first book signing and I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!!!!! Everyone was so nice- the authors, readers, volunteers, everyone! I almost found you to get your autograph because I totally blame you for my new obsession with books! I won a ticket to the after party, Angstfest and then I won a goodie bag full of great stuff at the after party….books from authors that I hadn’t gotten the chance to meet. Then some awesome person led me around to get those very books autographed. SQUEEEEE!!!! I met the most wonderful people there while meeting my fave author…Lori Otto! Thank you again for EVERYTHING you did to make this happen. Can’t wait for the next one!
Watching as a unicorn puzzle was put together by my niece.
Book Bash looked amazing. I wish I could have gone. Love all of your recommendations!
On June 27 I was wishing at BB. Next year for sure!
Last Thursday…….reading
On the 27th I was wishing I could go to Book Bash. Thank you for the giveaway!
On June 27th, I was pouting and wishing I was at book bash!
I was probably reading ;). Thanks for your awesome blog.
Working : (
On the bright side it was the day after my birthday!
Pick me!! Last night I was finishing The Rocker That Needs Me!
I was reading…..I’ve read almost 20 books since the beginning of June (and I have an active 9 month old!)! Thankful for your lists to keep me going!
hmm… what was I doing? You think I can remember over a week ago? I read when I should be sleeping……therefore my memory is not so good 😉
One June 27th, I was working and when no one else was looking reading on my phone. 🙂
Tonight I will be re-reading Rock Chick Rescue. I love this series! I have read all of Kristen Ashley’s books (some more than twice!). Just love her.
Thursdsay, June 27th I was stalking Facebook and all the beginning happenings of Book Bash!! Tonight I’ll be reading Beautiful Bitch because it just came out today!! WOOHOO!!!! Thanks for this giveaway Maryse, it’s a chance to be a “part” of what we missed out on 🙂
My grandsons (9 yrs. & 7 yrs. old) were visiting for a couple of days. They were reading there favorite children’s books to me.
Sounds fun
wow that swag looks incredible,On June 27 U was in the hospital having emergency surgery-sucked big time!!!! But I was reading the series by Michelle Valentine about Lissa and Joe so I wasn’t totally bored. I guess I got the lemons but I made lemonade this time lol [email protected]
I was heading home from a week long vacation in Mexico! I love hearing your tails of BookBash!
OMG Nyrae Dawn!!!
OMG Karina Halle!!!
OMG CJ Roberts!!!!!
OMG Kristen Ashley!!!!
whew…..okay….I got that out, I swear I am such a shameless author groupie sometimes….
Maryse…Seriously, I don’t freakin remember. Probably dodgin my mom’s phone calls cause she’s been in a bit snippy since her birthday on 6/25.
I’m so jealous. I actually won tickets to Book Bash and wasn’t able to attend. Needless to say, I was heartbroken. Hopefully I can go next year. 🙂
Spent the evening reading
Great pictures… it was great to finally meet the chica who hooks me up with all the hot hot hot books…. Had a great time at book bash… thanks a ton for hosting it!!!
Excited to see all the pictures. On the 27th, I read all evening.
Let’s see, way back on June 27th, I was probably still sanding cabinet doors so we could refinish them. Tonight, I will be finishing (hopefully!) MidLife Love by Whitney G….sooooo good!
On that Thursday I was picking up a friend (that I met online via social media) at the airport. She flew down from Chicago just for Book Bash. We had a girls weekend. We stayed at the hotel and had a blast. She flew down with a suitcase and backpack practically full of books and left with a suitcase and backpack full of books and 2 boxes of books that I had to mail back to her. We had so much fun we hope it will be a yearly event.
I was rereading some Dex! Just love him!
Looks like you had a ball!!
Looks like an amazing time!!!
On Thursday, June 27th I started reading Darkhouse. It was that last post on your blog that finally had me engrossed in the series (and by the 4th I had finished all 10 books
I so wished I lived closer, I really wanted to be there!
on that Thursday we were probably doing what we always do, having family time.
Thanks for the great post, and giveaway!
I was working in the ER 🙂
Thank you for sharing the book bash experience with all of us who would have loved to be there but couldn’t! I was spending that night at my son’s all-star baseball tournament.
That was our only night off from the ball field that week, so I was reading and washing uniforms 🙂
I was super bummed I couldn’t come, but I’m looking forward to snagging tickets next year. So happy Book Bash was an uber success! Proud of all of you.
Looked like so much fun! Wish I could of gone… Maybe next year! 🙂
Maryse, I am so jealous!! This is something I would LOVE to do!! I have never traveled on my own and am quite scared to, but for Bookbash I will make an exception! Can you please tell me more about where it is, how I can perhaps get tickets for next year etc?? I live in South Africa but I would really love to meet fellow readers and authors! I am passionate about reading and actually want to write my own novels, and finding others that enjoy the same books as me has been such a revelation since discovering your blog 2 years ago.. now I just need to meet you guys!
Squeeee. I was on a vacay to puerta Vallarta with my bestie! I was pool side reading this man confessed sipping on a piña colada! Heaven!
On June 27th, I was taking my son to fencing (that’s right, fencing, like real swords) class, but wishing I was at Book Bash.
Thank you for the giveaway! I wish I could have made it to Book Bash this year.
Wow what an amazing experience!!! On June 27th I was watching CWTV with my Mom in San Antonio on vacation and enjoyed some awesome wine.
Book Bash was absolutely amazing, I am not commenting to win anything, only to tell you what an amazing job you did. It was like a dream meeting all of my favorite authors, and they were all SO nice and approachable! The weekend was a “10”. Can’t wait for next year!
I was reading and watching all the different authors post pics on facebook from book bash. Wish I could of went. :/
I love these books!!!!
Book bash looks so fun!!
Book bash looks like a blast!!
I so wish I could have gone to Book Bash! It looks like it was so much fun. Maybe next year….since I wasn’t able to go, a swag back would be a great consolation prize! 🙂 Thanks for the giveaway! June 27…the reason I couldn’t go is that my husband & I are spending the summer traveling the eastern US (plus Toronto)….so June 27th, we were driving from Toronto CA, to Rochester NY.
Hugs back to you my friend 😀 It was the best 4 days for me in a long time!! Glad I got to share with you !!
Hugs <3
So jealous I couldn’t go to Book Bash!! 🙁 Hoping to make it to the Chicago Author Event next year!
June 27th I think I was at home because school and exams were cancelled because of the flood. I don’t know I have the memory of a goldfish 🙂
On June 27th I was in the hospital with my future husband as we had to go into the emergency room the night before due to the fact FH had a partially collapsed lung. Definitely not what I wanted to happen or be doing. 🙁
WAHHHH!! So Jealous!!! I had bought my tickets to go then some prsonal things came up and wasn’t able to make it so I had to give my tickets away 🙁 Looks like it was LOADS of fun!!
I was in Chicago for a fan fiction meet-up that weekend! 🙂
What I was doing Thursday night…spending quality *ahem* time with the hubby. 😉 what a fun giveaway!!!
I was packing for book bash!!!
Sheesh, this looked like SOOOO much fun! So jelly of everyone that could go! ; )
I was at home looking at all the pics, tweets, and posts of all the bloggers and authors that attended. I really hope you do this again Maryse because NOTHING will prevent me from going next year!
I was sorry that I missed Book Bash…Next year I am there. I don’t remember what I was doing on June 27th…I can barely remember what I did yesterday!
Thank you, Book Bash was one of the most amazing weekends of my life. I am still riding the high from it!! As for what I was doing Thursday, I was packing for a terrific weekend.
I had so much fun. Thanks for putting together this awesome event.
I was so upset that I had to miss Book Bash…. I really wanted to go, but I had surgery and was stuck in a bed…. 🙁 but will not miss it next year. I hope I get to win “The Breathing Series” that has to be one of my favorite series… I felt all the emotions the characters did and more… the tears and more tears.
Bookbash was a blast,can’t wait for next year
I’ll be honest, I was the green monster that night, green with envy, jealousy…I was almost Tarryn Fisher’s Leah (almost)…will be there next time, If I have to walk so be it!
I missed book bash because we arrived after 4pm due to us driving from New York to Florida on Friday night since I had to wait for my parents to get off work. I’m thankful some authors stood after 4pm and I an amazing volunteer, who I think her name was Sherry, she was wonderful and helped me the entire day even at the after-party. I’m so thankful to her! And the authors I did meet made up for me missing book bash, they were sweet and signed my books. It will always be a day to remember! Hopefully next year there will be another!!!
Wish I was there. Thanks for the wonderful write up & pictures.