What’s my idea of a great night out in NYC? One where I spend more time trying to decide which romance novel to bring than what to wear! Last night I went to the debut of Lady Jane’s Salon and yes, I spent forever staring under my bed at my romance novel collection trying to decide which gently used mass market book to offer as my admission for the event.
That’s right, the entrance fee was a book (or five dollars). And last night all of the proceeds, both cash and books, went to Share the Love, a nonprofit organization that provides gently used romance novels to groups helping women in transition. Not only did I have a great night out surrounded by romance readers and writers, I shared a copy of Anna Campbell’s Tempt the Devil with someone who might really be in need of a great read with a happy ending.
Apart from donating the admission and proceeds from the book sales to charity, Lady Jane’s Salon is the first Manhattan reading series devoted to the romance genre. Yes, it’s true. Although NYC seems to have everything, including delivery at all hours of the day and night, until last night Manhattan did not have a reading series for romance authors. Now thanks to the fabulous local authors, Maya Rodale, Hope Tarr, and Leanna Renee Hieber, we have Lady Jane’s Salon!
Co-sponsored by Share the Love and Beatrice.com, the event featured Andrea Pickens and Hope Tarr. The room was full and after the authors read from their latest works, there was a line to purchase autographed copies. Yes, I admit that I gave away one book, only to bring home three more. However, I do plan to share the books with friends!
I hope to see you all on March 2nd at Madame X for the second Lady Jane’s Salon featuring New York Times bestselling author Lauren Willig and Jenna Petersen!
Hi Sarah,
It was so nice to finally meet you last night! See you on the 2nd of March…
Maya
Sarah, this DOES sound like a fun way to spend a cold night in New York City. Maybe one day I’ll be lucky enough to be in the area when a salon is on and I can come too. Love the idea of the proceeds going to charity too. Thanks so much for sharing a copy of Tempt the Devil!
What a fun night it was. I’m so happy that this was organized. Picking a novel is a lot more fun than picking an outfit.
Maya, it was great to meet you too!
Anna, if you ever happen to be in NYC on the first Monday of the month, please consider a Lady Jane’s Salon appearance. I believe they’re interested in visiting romance authors!
Kwana, great to see you there last night and thanks again for sharing the photos on your blog.
Thank you SO much, Sarah, for being there, and for writing about it! You’re a great ambassador for our chapter and the industry. Your support in this venture is greatly, greatly appreciated. Thanks for helping us spread the word! Can’t wait for the next one!