I had a successful book signing and discussion with readers about my newest novel, Straight River, at my favorite bookstore (out of so many that are spectacular), Sweet Reads Books in Austin MN. Owner Lisa Deyo wasn’t able to be there due to a death in her family. Nevertheless, her staff picked up the slack and welcomed me as warmly as Lisa always does–minus the hugs. Lisa’s a hugger. 🙂 The crowd was small but attentive. Perhaps the day was so nice after a long, snowy and rainy February and March that most folks were outside enjoying the sunshine and seasonal temps Seasonal means the mid-30s in southern MN in March.
I was also pleased that two Austin-area authors were there to say hi and chat. Cozy mystery author Julie Seedorf stopped by with her husband, Mark. Also in attendance was Benet Stoen, a young author who writes YA novels. Austin has a surprisingly large author community for its size, perhaps partly influenced by the Amanda Hocking “phenomenon.” Amanda hails from Austin and broke through to become a bestselling author through self-publishing her books to her huge fan base.
I love traveling around the region to bookstores to sell and sign books, even if I only sell a few books. Interacting with readers of any sort is always a pleasure. And meeting fans who’ve read my book(s) and enjoyed them makes the hard work, cost, and endless editing worthwhile. BTW, Sweet Reads Books was named Minnesota’s representative in the “Must-See Bookstores in the US” by the website bookbub.com. Quite the honor and well-deserved.Thank you, Sweet Reads Books.