I’m always a little suspicious of people who make very detailed reports of what they got up to at conventions (seriously do you take continuous notes?), because when I get home the memories are already smeared and indistinct. What day did I talk to this person, or hear that author read, or discover that book in the dealers’ room? I don’t know. And to be honest – you guys don’t care. Suffice to say I had a great time – I always do – mostly spent sat on my backside talking to friends I don’t get to spend nearly enough time with and meeting new faces too. Three days (had to leave early Monday morning so I could spend the day with another old and dear friend) of endlessly inventive chat, throw in a smattering of bookyness and just about the right amount of beer, and that’s close to a perfect way to spend my time.
Since we were launching the ebook of The Ephemera there was an element of book-business to be done too: spamming the fan areas with shiny flyers, talking nonsense on some panels and talking arcane marketing strategies with InfinityPlus supremo, Keith Brooke. And there were the BSFA awards too of course, about which I reiterate my delight for Ian and Aliette (although if pushed I’ll admit to a tiny twinge of disappointment, but ya know… who wouldn’t?). There were a couple of other interesting conversations latterly in the proceedings which my one day bear business-shape fruit – or at the very least something fun – but we’ll sit on those for now.
Meantime, thanks to everyone who expressed interest in Arrhythmia and The Ephemera over the weekend (we even made a cash sale for a copy of the ebook!) As part of my ebook marketing training I’ve been instructed to gently request that if you do go and check out The Ephemera, and if you like it (or even if you don’t) please consider leaving a few words on the customer reviews on Amazon. It can make a huge difference in terms of visibility, and therefore to the success or otherwise of the book. And we all like success, don’t we?
Anyway – on a train, just crossed the border in to Scotland and my smile just got a little wider. Love going away fro Eastercon, love my friends, but I love coming home more.
ayeahmur 