Michelle Monkou recaps Romance Slam Jam 2013

Another fun year of reunions and celebrations occurred at Romance Slam Jam 2013. This year's keynote, Donna Hill, anchored the weekend event in Milwaukee. From the Thursday night event to the passing of the torch on Sunday, the group meets for "four great days of fellowship, conversation, food and the sharing of their love of African-American romance." Workshops and panels, reader-focused sessions and a multiauthor book signing provide a little something for everyone.

Saturday night culminated with the announcements of the Emma Awards. Congratulations to the winners, who were chosen by readers.

Book of the Year

Just One Taste by Celeste O. Norfleet

Suspense of the Year

Temptation Rising by A.C. Arthur

Sequel of the Year

Seduction's Shift by A.C. Arthur

Steamy Romance of the Year

Any Way You Want It by Maureen Smith

Hero of the Year

Sean Donovan from Surrender to a Donovan by A.C. Arthur

Heroine of the Year

Diamond Lassiter from Teach Me by Iris Bolling

Cover of the Year (award goes to the cover artist)

Just One Taste by Celeste O. Norfleet

Debut Author of the Year

Harmony Evans

Author of the Year

Yvette Hines

Get ready to hop on board as dates for the 2014 Romance Slam Jam are set for May 7-11 in New Orleans. If you haven't been to one, make this your goal. Trust me, you'll have fun. Check out the Romance Slam Jam website for further details.

Michelle Monkou is a best-selling romance author celebrates her recent e-novella release, Carnival Temptress. Her May 2013 Kimani release, Passionate Game, is available for pre-order at major retailers and online. Her website is MichelleMonkou.blogspot.com.