THRILLERFEST WRAP-UP

I FOUND MY PEEPS

I was trying to think of the best way to sum up my experience at ThrillerFest and it's pretty much this: I found my people.  This was my fourth year attending but it was the first time I got to know so many authors on a such a personal level, and we all agreed on one thing; no one knows writers like writers.  We love our friends and family, but authors are an odd bunch and the experiences we share are truly unique and not easily understood by those around us.  It's a theme I kept hearing over and over and now I know why most of the established writers at ThrillerFest have stayed close friends for so many years. 

The conference has also been a perfect vehicle for making sure that at least once a year, we can see each other, exchange ideas, talk about the ups and downs that are specific to the publishing world. I feel like many of the friendships I made will continue for years.  I was not able to attend the finale, the big banquet on Saturday, since I had a book signing in NJ, but these are some highlights of the last couple of days:

R.L. Stine, Goosebumps author at the evening cocktail party. Super-nice guy.

Friday night dinner at a delicious Indian restaurant, Bukhara Grill, with all the debut authors.

Douglas Preston and the Debuts all took a subway ride to the NYC's famous Mysterious Bookshop.

So many books.  Wish I had a library like this in my house.

 With author and friend, Kay Kendall.

 With author and friend Melissa Macgregor.

The illustrious Otto Penzler, publisher of the stars and owner of the bookstore, gave an inspirational talk.

 Ta-Da! Finally, the morning of the Debut Breakfast.  View from the dais as crowds start to gather.

This was our big moment.  Ready to give our one-minute speeches in front of hundreds of authors and fans as Steve Berry introduces us.

 

 

We got a standing ovation.  I'm all teary-eyed.

Back in the ThrillerFest bookstore, there are only 2 copies of my book left. I think I scared folks with my speech about killer ants invading the Grand Hyatt ballroom.

I had to rush off early for a book signing in Hackensack Saturday night, but I left ThrillerFest with a big grin on my face.  I cannot think of any other profession where a large and accomplished group of people will welcome you into their world, eager to help you get ahead. It was through ITW and ThrillerFest that I found my agent, and eventually was published. Since then, they have supported my career in every way possible.  I only hope I can pay it forward.