Pen, Spoon & Dagger

Just back from Murder 203 - Connecticut's homegrown mystery festival.  Held for the third year, it's a fun mix of writers and fans organized by the hard working staff of the Easton library. This year's guest honour was the delightful Carolyn Hart, ably interviewed by Leslie Meier.  What a treat to hear the secrets behind this award-winning, cozy writer's success. Carolyn traveled all the way from Oklahoma to share her wit and wisdom with us.  Others on hand included Rosemary Harris, Jane Haddam,  Amy Patirica Meade, Meredith Cole, Stefanie Pintoff and Larry Beinhart.  In all more than a dozen authors, many from the tri-State area, participated in sessions ranging from "Leading Ladies" to Mistakes I Wish I'd Never Made." The highlight of the weekend (at least for me) is always the cocktail party held Saturday evening at the lovely Easton Library.  Mingling with authors and attendees over scrumptious hors d'oeuvres and a glass (or two) of wine...

Last weekend was Murder 203, Connecticut's own Mystery festival.  Held on Saturday at the Easton Library and on Sunday at the Westport library, it's a wonderful way to re-energize your spirit and your writing.  The two-day event is packed with panel discussions, book signings, raffles and a silent auction at Saturday night's cocktail party. This year's guest of honour was Mary Jane Clark, author of the Eliza Blake and Sunrise Suspense Society series.  Hank Phillippi Ryan, put on her reporter "hat" and interviewed Mary Jane.  The hour flew by, filled with amusing anecdotes and useful insights. Mystery 203 draws not only published authors, and the hopeful (like yours truly), but also avid fans who come to meet and mingle with their favourite mystery writers.  I was surprised by the number of non-writers, many of whom had driven long distances to be there.   There were lots of great sessions to choose.  Topics included: Research: balancing facts and fi...