LA Times Book Fest and Reality

L.A. feels cold, damp, and crowded.  Sleeping at home seems oddly quiet without the sound of crashing waves.  The cats are sure glad to see us home. Husband and I just returned from a fabulous vacation in Maui.  A delayed 10th wedding anniversary and a couple of big birthday celebrations wrapped together. 

I had hoped to get some writing done and I did, working with great focus every morning.  I had felt as if I was circling a rat's maze with the plot of the new book and the change of scenery was just what I needed to see things from a new perspective.  Perhaps a change of scenery might work for you, too, if you find yourself maze-bound in a story you're working on.  Something as simple as taking your work to a park or a cafe might do the trick.  I'm going to try this from time to time.    



On Kaanapali Beach. Yes, UCLA Bruins...
I am holding a USC Trojans visor. Don't ask.

The L.A. Times Festival of Books is this weekend.  I will be signing there Saturday, April 30:

12:00 - 1:00 Mystery Ink, Booth 370

2:00 - 4:00 Sisters in Crime, Booth 373 

If you're around, come by!

Tonight, Friday, April 29, Mystery Writers of America, Southern California chapter is sponsoring a pre-festival party at from 6:00 - 9:00 at Skylight Books.  There will be free eats and drinks, and lots of writers and readers.  It's open to the public.  This is the first time Skylight Books is hosting this party. It was always packed and big fun at its previous venue, our dearly departed The Mystery Bookstore in Westwood.  Again, if you're around, come by!