Malice

overcast. mild - I think

We're in the hotel in Washington - having a great time at the convention...but not getting out except to walk to a local restaurant for dinner. No time to see Washington, though we've done that before. It's an odd feeling - being here but we could be anywhere.

Had a really fun lun with Michael and Jim Huang of the Mytery Company bookstore in Indianapolis. He's organizing bouchercon this year...that's the huge mystery readers/writers convention.

Did the panel this morning of the writers shortlisted for the Agatha for Best Novel. Rhys Bowen, Donna Andrews, Anne Perry and me...Julia spencer-fleming is also nominated but she couldn't make the convention.

This is loads of fun but exhausting...always feel 'on'. At the end of the day we just collapse. As you know, I'm not naturally sociable. I like people a lot, but in small doses...and these huge gatherings are exciting and invigorating but can also be draining. I suspect most people feel as I do - that it's nice to be with others, but it's also nice to have quiet time.

Tonight is the banquet where they're announcing the Agatha winners. I'm hosting a table. have brought handmade chocolate from the village and hardcover copies of The Cruelest Month, for those at our table.

Michael flies home tomorrow...I have a breakfast with Andy martin, my publisher at Minotaur Books and Sarah Melnyk, the publicist. Then a few events - and heading out to the B&N for tomorrow night's events.

This feels like a travelogue and not very interesting...but lots of fun things are happening...I think I'm a little overwhelmed and a little tired. But surrounded by friends.

Will try to blog tomorrow with the results. I think Anne Perry will win, and I know everyone on the shortlist should win, so there's no shame in losing to any of them.

Hope you're well...talk later.