I attended my first book signing two weeks ago - Indies Invade Philly. It was one of the most fulfilling weekends of my life, and I struggled a bit before I was finally able to put what I was feeling into words. I spilled my messy feels in my Facebook group and even fourteen days later it's all true! This is what I wrote:
"That signing room was pure happiness - readers were jumping into each other's arms. Reconnecting for the first time in years. Readers were laughing and crying; readers had to bring *suitcases* because they had purchased so many of our books. They made art, and fan art, and wore tee-shirts and presented us with *gifts*. It was just 600 book lovers -- and really, when you're a book lover, don't you want to just be around other people who love to escape into an adventure through stories? The power of your support was so uplifting I kept almost bursting into tears every couple hours.
Also - my adorable parents came, which was emotional enough for me, but then readers mobbed them in the cutest way!! I can't tell you what that meant to me. My parents supported my writing from the very beginning; I used to write a lot of poetry and "books" when I was in elementary school, and my parents would help me type them into a Word document and use clip-art to design it -- that was 25 years ago, and they've been my #1 fans ever since. I don't think they knew what to expect on Saturday, and they were so appreciative of *all* of you and your kind words.
I got to hang with Indies Invade authors on Thursday and Friday night (and spoiler alert THEY ARE ALL MAGICAL). Lucy, Claire, Pippa and I drank champagne in our pajamas and celebrated Bluewater and were overwhelmed with the response for a project we just loved so much. All of these author-women are warrior-goddesses and I am blessed to know them. What a privilege it is to be part of this community - and what a privilege it is to know all of you."
That feeling of gratitude exists for each and every one of you - thank you for reading and for coming along on this journey with me. I can't wait to see what stories come next...
xoxo
Kathryn
P.S. Below are just a few of the pictures taken at Indies Invade Philly!
