I’ll be honest. Bouchercon has intimidated me for years. A mystery fan convention that regularly boasts over 1000 attendees? That’s scary for an introvert like me.
This year, though, I wanted to go in person, to mingle with authors and fans, and also to celebrate Sisters in Crime’s (SinC) 35th anniversary. (I’m currently VP on the national board and nominated to become President starting October 1, when the new term rolls around.)
Here are highlights from my trip:
SinC Executive Director Julie Hennrikus, President Stephanie Gayle, and I got to say a little something at the opening ceremonies. We celebrated our 35th year by giving out cupcakes! (What else?)
I got to fangirl over amazing authors. It was the first time I met S.A. Cosby, who is utterly charming.
I also met up with Julie Anne Lindsey/Bree Baker (squee!) and chatted with a beloved author, Jean Kwok. And I connected with authors I admire, including Yasmin Angoe, Valerie Burns, Tori Eldridge, Naomi Hirahara, Mia Manansala, Delia Pitts, Raquel Reyes, and many more!
Readers, librarians, and booksellers were absolutely delightful. Thank you to those who came up to me to share how much they enjoyed my Sassy Cat Mysteries or my new book, Death By Bubble Tea.
It was moving to cheer on readers at the Crime Writers of Color’ Underrepresented Voices reception and Noir at the Bar. The Anthony Awards was so exciting, with such great nominees. (Spoiler: S.A. Cosby swept.)
And while I was gone, I had some fun media mentions. BookBub listed Death By Bubble Tea as one of 16 Charming Cozies, and Penguin Random House Audio selected it as one of 6 Culinary Cozy Mysteries To Devour (shout-out to Stephanie Sheh, my amazing audiobook narrator!).
Although I’m (happily) tired from the convention, I’m also looking forward to my next event. No traveling needed. I’ll be doing a virtual night market tour talk on Monday, September 19 at 6:30pm Pacific, hosted by Torrance Public Library. And TWO lucky attendees will receive a copy of Death By Bubble Tea and a boba tea kit. Don’t miss out!
You can email JShimonishi@TorranceCa.Gov for the Zoom link. Please RSVP by 9/17.
Hope you all also had a fabulous week!
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