Thrillerfest, Here I Come!

By Lynn McPherson


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I am absolutely thrilled to let you all know that I am going to Thrillerfest XIV in New York City this July. Now, I am a cozy mystery author so some readers may be wondering why I have chosen this particular conference to attend. There are so many reasons that I decided to share a few of them here.

First of all, it’s held in New York City. As a big movie fan, it’s hard not to love New York. From Goodfellas to Breakfast at Tiffany’s to Desperately Seeking Susan, it’s a place that always makes a good movie great. When I finally got to see New York in person, it did not disappoint. The energy and atmosphere make it a world-class city I’m always happy to visit. Inspiration is around every corner.

Secondly, Thrillerfest is an enticing conference for anyone who is looking for a literary agent. There is something called Pitchfest, where authors get the chance to pitch their work to agents looking for new clients. It’s a fantastic opportunity to try to find a good match for me. I’m working on a new series and I’m hoping to find a good agent interested in a long-term relationship. There is nothing else like it—Pitchfest is a unique event. If nothing else, it’ll be great experience and practice for the future.

Finally (and most importantly!), the line-up at Thrillerfest is top notch. The participating authors are exciting and will be really fun to see—including John Sandford, Harlan Coben, Lisa Unger, and James Rollins, among others. There is also the huge number of panels to attend—so many panels, so little time. I’m absolutely delighted to let you know that I won’t only be an audience member—I’ll also have the chance to participate in one. It is called Squeal, Panic, or Chill? Turn Off Your Job and Turn on Your Life. Led by Panel Master Bryan Robinson, and I can’t wait to be a part of the action.

So, there it is folks.

How about you? Where are you headed next and why have you chosen to go?

Lynn McPherson has worked for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, ran a small business, and taught English across the globe. She has travelled the world solo where her daring spirit has led her to jump out of airplanes, dive with sharks, and learn she would never master a surfboard. She now channels her lifelong love of adventure and history into her writing, where she is free to go anywhere, anytime. Her cozy series has two books out: The Girls' Weekend Murder and The Girls Whispered Murder.  

[Lynn's Author Site] - [Buy Lynn's Book]

For the Love of Librarians...

By Lynn McPherson


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I was lucky enough to participate at a library panel in Toronto last week. The panel was made up of five authors including me. We were invited to come in and talk about crime fiction and writing. The sub-genres ranged from thriller to cozy, and between us, there was a lot to talk about. The library set up a nice long table for the panellists with a wireless microphone for each, and a numbers of chairs for the audience to sit comfortably. The evening went well and the audience seemed engaged. Afterwards, the librarian thanked us for our time and efforts.

Since then I’ve been thinking about the role of librarians in our culture. Librarians are unsung heroes of learning, education, and literacy. Ever adapting to a changing world and the technological advancements introduced almost daily, librarians are fearless. Plus, these real-life superheroes are there to help writers succeed—they champion authors and books and imagination.

For a writer, there is no better friend than a librarian. They can introduce readers to your books. They can include your books in clubs, conversations, or displays. They can help you succeed with encouragement, support, and enthusiasm.

I’d like to send out a big thank you to all the librarians whose efforts do not get recognized or celebrated enough. My favourite librarian worked at the small elementary school in Edmonton, Alberta I attended in the 1980’s named Sweet Grass. She taught us the history of fine art, dared us to push ourselves, and gave us the freedom to explore and enjoy the library and everything in it. There was no better place to be.

Lynn McPherson has worked for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, ran a small business, and taught English across the globe. She has travelled the world solo where her daring spirit has led her to jump out of airplanes, dive with sharks, and learn she would never master a surfboard. She now channels her lifelong love of adventure and history into her writing, where she is free to go anywhere, anytime. Her cozy series has two books out: The Girls' Weekend Murder and The Girls Whispered Murder.  

[Lynn's Author Site] - [Buy Lynn's Book]