Just back from Crime Bake, and feeling inspired. Exhasusted, but inspired. It was my 9th Crime Bake (out of 10 total). They had a slide show from previous Crime Bakes, and I could see myself aging, and changing, throughout. Here are some of my take aways from this weekend:
- Even though I am still working on getting the same book published/agented, the book itself has transformed thanks to many critiques. A number of those critiques came as a result of Crime Bake.
- Being part of a signing (for DEAD CALM, Level Best Books‘ new anthology) was as thrilling as it was last year. In some ways, it was even more thrilling. “Her Wish” had a long journey toward publication. And it remembers my friend Regina, who came to that first Crime Bake with me and would have been thrilled to see me signing this past weekend.
- Community is all. Most of the joy of Crime Bake is being with other writers. We are inspired by panels, supported by networking and pushed by opportunities to connect with agents, editors and masters of the craft. Both Sisters in Crime New England and Mystery Writers of America are great organizations that help promote that community.
- The business is changing. But no matter what, there are writers who dream of getting their book published (myself included). Going to conferences like Crime Bake help step up your game.
- We had a great social media panel on Friday that lead to many conversations throughout the weekend. One of the panelists said that blogs were dead. I disagree, but can’t really contribute to the conversation while I let this blog be so quiet. So short essays here, and on NHWN on a regular basis.
Anon.