Friday, July 11, 2008

Dispatches from Thrillerfest . . .

by Sean Chercover

Coming at you from Thrillerfest in New York. I didn't sign up for Craftfest, but you can read David Montgomery's post about a Joseph Finder session he attended, and you'll get a good idea of what is covered in these sessions.

Speaking of Montgomery ... the thing I love about crime fiction conventions is not so much the panels and sessions (although they're fun too) but the time spent (usually in the bar) with like-minded people. Sharing joys and frustrations and war stories with other writers ... talking with readers about our favorite books and authors ... talking about the industry, where it is now and where it might be heading, with agents and editors and publishers.

The atmosphere at these conferences is intense, and deep friendships are formed here. And if you remember to listen a little more than you talk, you can also learn a hell of a lot.

If you've never been to a crime fiction conference, I urge you to give it a try. Sign up for Bouchercon (Oct 9-12, Baltimore). Do it now. You won't be sorry.

One of the coolest things that can happen at these conferences is, you might see a good friend win an award. The Strand Magazine gave out its awards at a lovely cocktail reception the other night, and our own Marcus Sakey took home the award for Best First Novel.

That was a real thrill.

Now I'm off ... running back down to the hotel for the next round of fun. Hope to see y'all in Baltimore.

-Sean
P.S. If you're here at T'fest, stop by the Ballroom Foyer A at 3pm today. I'll be giving away signed ARCs of TRIGGER CITY. Free books!

9 comments:

Tasha Alexander said...

I am, as always, utterly impressed with the brilliance of Mr. Chercover.

Anonymous said...

Sean Chercover is a prince among men.

Anonymous said...

Stop boosting his ego women! - DB :)

Sara Paretsky said...

Sean, you're a very generous friend. You deserve all the good fortune that comes your way.

Jason Pinter said...

Hey Sean, great to see you again. Can't wait for October...

Marcus Sakey said...

Thanks for the kind words, bro! That was a night to remember...

Anonymous said...

Sean
Wish I'd been there
So sorry you didn't win but watch out at B'con
Bring a big suitcase
David Montgomery said he read the first part of Trigger city and it was terrific
Having had the honour of reading it all, it is truly amazing
Better than Big city and God Almighty, that say's it all
Bheannacht
ken

Anonymous said...

Hey Sean, so great to catch up again.
You are absolutely right. Wonderful friendships are formed with like-minded people with like-minded humor!!How scary?!
Am back home after Harrogate - lots to tell...:)

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