A Fun Afternoon Meeting Readers!

What if no one shows up? That was my initial fear as I walked toward The British and Commonwealth Women’s Association clubhouse in Paris on Friday afternoon. They were having a “Meet the Author” event, and guess who that author was? Me!

As I pressed in the door code, an English-speaking lady followed me into the building. That was a good sign. At least there would be two people in attendance: her and the president of the association.

And then, as we approached the door to the clubhouse, I heard conversation. Many voices! As I took my spot at the front of the room, I realized that more than a dozen members of the association were facing me. Whew! 

The BCWA president and me

The hour-long presentation turned into an hour-and-a-half as the ladies asked me many interesting questions about my books, inspiration and Velvet Morning Press, the indie publishing house I created with fellow author Vicki Lesage. The time flew by. 

As an author, unlike an actor or musician who is often in front of his or her audience, we are often removed from our audience. A great book review makes our day, but that often is our only contact with those who read our work.

These opportunities to actually speak with the reader are more rewarding than I could have imagined! 

What sorts of things did the crowd learn about me and my work?

*That I observe everything and collect images and memories in my head… later to be used in a book!
*That I think every writer needs an editor.
*That inspiration for a character in Paris, Rue des Martyrs came from a tip from my mom.
*That it’s very hard for me to stop editing my latest novel. It’s hard to let go. 

I realized that I do have a lot to say! So, now that I know readers do enjoy meeting new authors as much as long-established ones, I’ll approach my next author event with less trepidation.