First Day Bouchercon Baltimore

The first day was just getting one's bearings and getting ready for my panel at 11:30. Ran into all sorts of people I knew, including Ross, Julia Spencer-Fleming's husband and introducing him to mine. The book room was filled to the brim and my medieval basket was on hand on the table for the silent auction. 

Didn't have time for any panels prior as I headed for the green room to meet with my fellow panelists. Laurie King, our moderator, had us chit chatting a bit before we paraded to our room, and a big room it was! And filled to the capacity with people.

With six on a panel, we kept our answers brief. Our credo was to entertain, and that we did. The audience seemed to enjoy it and I got a little surprise for the signing room. I was told early on that St. Martin's wouldn't be able to get my books early for Bouchercon, but an enterprising bookstore in the dealer room--Rue Morgue--was able to wrangle a few, so I had the extreme pleasure of signing the actual book! And we sold out! (Okay, there probably weren't that many to begin with, but don't spoil the moment!)

The rest of  the day seemed croweded with chatting with people, investigating a local brew pub, and then standing in the back of the ballroom where the opening ceremonies were held along with the presenting of some awards, but we were near the bar and there was a lot of chatting going on and I really couldn't hear much. A good experiment but it might be best to go back to another format.

Friday there will be more going to see things and few panels but I'll tell you what went on. 

Comments

[I.J.Parker]

Jeri, that sounds very good to me. You've had a great start. Now enjoy the rest of Bouchercon. Have a ball!

[Ross from Maine]

Jeri, what a delight to finally meet you and Craig! He and I can start a Spousal Support Group. I picked up a hardcover from Rue Morgue, but got waylaid before reaching the signing room. Well, after VEIL reprints, at least I can say I got a 1st edition! Onward and upward,
Ross