In my 20-plus years of attending writer’s conferences, I have to say that Bouchercon 2025 really tops them all. Not only because it was in a place I love, New Orleans–though San Diego was also gorgeous—it was a combination of participation on my part as well as having my mom be my plus-one, (she’s the best travel partner!) the hotel being easy to navigate (last year at the Gaylord was very confusing) and lots of selections for food from expensive to less so. There was plenty of coffee, and everyone was just so friendly.
I was in the Almost a Murder dinner play with Heather Graham, Lisa Black, Terry Rodgers, Jon Land, Clay Stafford, Kelli Stanley, and Jeff Ayres, which was really a lot of fun despite my lack of acting skill. I met people in the audience, who remembered me later in the elevator. I was on four panels, and I got to meet one of my favorite authors, (besides Heather!) Charlaine Harris. We commiserated over the fact that her series wasn’t continued, and it was one we both loved, Gunnie Rose. Just goes to show that it doesn’t matter how high you are on the ladder, publishers are on the top. It is all about the sales numbers.
My friend and fellow author Carol Stephenson was photographer extraordinaire, and the panels were all terrific. The audience participation was great—even the Sunday morning at 8 was full of bright-eyed folks wanting to talk cozies.
It felt like an incredible way to celebrate the release of Mrs. Morris and the Day of the Dead—which is hanging in at #44 on the Barnes & Noble mass market list, and Death at an Irish Village. I was able to meet with my publisher at Crooked Lane, and he is hopeful that there will be books 4 and 5. It all comes down to numbers!
I am grateful to all of you who have bought and reviewed the books. I love, love, love what I do in creating worlds via stories. Word of mouth is key in this crazy biz.
Thank you!
Traci