Who cares what the weather is - I WON!!!!
Nothing subtle about me.... yay! I woke up with a sore face from smiling, and laughing and just being absolutely joyous.
the whole evening was magical. Michael and I hosted a table with eight really nice people - gave them all hardcover copies of a fatal grace, handmade chocolates from Muriel, in Sutton, and a perpetual calendar - one of the new ones Lise designed. Ordered a couple bottles of wine for the table and settled in for a nice evening.
Mary Higgins Clarke spoke.
William Link spoke.
Parnell Hall spoke.
Rhys Bowen was hilarious and moving and gracious as the master of ceremonies.
And then the awards...the Best Novel is at the very end.
One of the great tragedies in the Malice Domestic community in the past year was the death of one of it's long time directors, and a personal friend of mine - Louise Leftwich. Her brother and sister were invited to speak about her. And then her brother and sister-in-law were asked to give out the awards.
It was simple and dignified and lovely and deeply moving.
When he read our names we all were asked to stand. Donna Andrews, Lorna Barrett, Rhys Bowen, me, and Hank Phillippi Ryan.
And then she read the winner....The Brutal Telling. I was frankly shocked. I totally expected Rhys to win. Indeed, all the novels were terrific and anyone could have won...but I really thought Rhys's was outstanding. But then they called The Brutal Telling.
I remember bringing my hands to my face, covering it. Almost wanting to hide. Not out of fear - but a surfeit of delight. I didn't want that moment to end. But I eventually dropped my hands, and went to the front, veering slightly to hug Rhys, who whispered 'Congratulations'...and gave me a huge smile.
then up to the podium. And what terrible joy to give Louise Leftwich's brother and sister-in-law a hug and kiss.
And then to stand at the podium and look out at 500 people, smiling.
This is my home - my family - with people who celebrate each other...and have been so kind to me. Oh, I need to say too, that it was an astonishing evening for Canadians...how inclusive and generous the americans are!!! They'd give two awards to Canadians...and so embrace us.
The terrific Alan Bradley won for The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie.
Mostly, while up there talking, I wanted to thank Michael...for always telling me I was beautiful and brilliant, and loved. No matter what. And I believed him. And I wanted to thank all the people at Malice for embracing not just me, but him too.
Off home later today. What a trip! Thanks for coming along. We didn't see much (anything) of Washington - but it's a trip I'll never forget! And - to add to the amazement and the generosity of the community - this is the first time in history an author has won three Agathas for Best Novel in a row! And i'm here to tell you - it never gets tiring!!!
Did I mention I won the Agatha!!!!!
Showing posts with label Agatha Award. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Agatha Award. Show all posts
Sunday, 2 May 2010
Sunday, 3 May 2009
YAY!!!
rainy, misty
We won!!!! The Agatha for best novel!!! I was absolutely floored and still am. Stunned and staggered. And thrilled. It was such a strong field. Not certain what I said in my speech except, somehow, I remember saying something about Anne perry's facial hair. Dear Lord. Well, not her actual hair, but they put a photo of her up on a screen and the screen had a semi-circular smudge, right at her upper lip. Looked exactly like a moustache.
Wish i hadn't said that. Just spoke to her now and made certain she knew it wasn't meant as an insult. She really is lovely.
Other winners of Agatha's were:
GM Maillet, Best First Novel, for Death of a Cozy Writer
Kathy Lynn Emerson, Best Non-Fiction, How to Write Killer Historical Mysteries
Dana Cameron, Best Short Story, The Night things changed
Chris Grabenstein, Best Young Adult, The Crossroads
Congratulations to everyone.
I'm still trembling. I was no expecting it, which helped. meant I was totally relaxed. Michael and I were hosting a table. We'd taken hardcover copies of The Crulest Month and handmade chocolates from the chocolate place in Sutton. And were just having a fun time. Unlike me, really, not to be nervous. But when The Cruelest Month was read out I brought my hands to my face and paused there a monent. Then kissed (almost up on assualt charges) everyone in my path - whether they wanted it or not. Poor Michael I almost pawed.
The publisher, Andy martin, sprang from his chair, ran across the room, hugged me and whispered. "I can't believe it!'
Actually, I know what he meant. I can't either.
Michael's on his way home...but just emailed from the airport to say the plane has been delayed almost 2 hours! Yech. I go home Tuesday, but at the rate he's going I might get there first. I'll be happy when he phones and emails to say the plane has landed...always feels better.
Off to do a few more things then check out of the hotel.
But, one more things to do...
YIPPPPPPEEEEEEE!!!!!!
We won!!!! The Agatha for best novel!!! I was absolutely floored and still am. Stunned and staggered. And thrilled. It was such a strong field. Not certain what I said in my speech except, somehow, I remember saying something about Anne perry's facial hair. Dear Lord. Well, not her actual hair, but they put a photo of her up on a screen and the screen had a semi-circular smudge, right at her upper lip. Looked exactly like a moustache.
Wish i hadn't said that. Just spoke to her now and made certain she knew it wasn't meant as an insult. She really is lovely.
Other winners of Agatha's were:
GM Maillet, Best First Novel, for Death of a Cozy Writer
Kathy Lynn Emerson, Best Non-Fiction, How to Write Killer Historical Mysteries
Dana Cameron, Best Short Story, The Night things changed
Chris Grabenstein, Best Young Adult, The Crossroads
Congratulations to everyone.
I'm still trembling. I was no expecting it, which helped. meant I was totally relaxed. Michael and I were hosting a table. We'd taken hardcover copies of The Crulest Month and handmade chocolates from the chocolate place in Sutton. And were just having a fun time. Unlike me, really, not to be nervous. But when The Cruelest Month was read out I brought my hands to my face and paused there a monent. Then kissed (almost up on assualt charges) everyone in my path - whether they wanted it or not. Poor Michael I almost pawed.
The publisher, Andy martin, sprang from his chair, ran across the room, hugged me and whispered. "I can't believe it!'
Actually, I know what he meant. I can't either.
Michael's on his way home...but just emailed from the airport to say the plane has been delayed almost 2 hours! Yech. I go home Tuesday, but at the rate he's going I might get there first. I'll be happy when he phones and emails to say the plane has landed...always feels better.
Off to do a few more things then check out of the hotel.
But, one more things to do...
YIPPPPPPEEEEEEE!!!!!!
Saturday, 2 May 2009
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.
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.
Sunday, 26 April 2009
Busy
overcast, cool (compared to yesterday), temps 16
Can't believe it got up to 28 degrees yesterday! Actually hard to sleep it was so hot upstairs. Turned the ceiling fan on...then the temp dropped in the night. Phew.
You see - we can talk about the weather forever. And I know how interesting it is to other people.
Pat and Tony will be moving in here tomorrow while we're away - bringing their dogs and looking after Trudy. We're off to Ste Agathe tomorrow, to spend the night with a couple of friends at Lac manitou. Then I'll be giving a talk to the local Canadian Club. Then on Wednesday I have a talk to the Protestant School board members. Then on Thursday we fly to Washington for Malice Domestic.
That's a fun 3 day convention for mystery readers and writers - especially in the Tradiitonal gnre. I really like Malice Domestic. Lots of fun. This year the guest of honour is Anne Perry.
After that - next Sunday - I have that event with Marcia Talley, Rhys Bowen, Elaine Viets, Mary Jane Maffini and GM Maillet at the B&N in Annapolis. 5pm. Then on monday I'll be heading to Pittsburgh for the Festival of Mystery.
Busy time.
And not sure when I'll get a chance to blog. Will try, but you might not hear from me for 10 days or so. Think of me at the Agatha Awards Saturday night...The Cruelest Month is nominated. But it's a hugely talented field!
Take care of yourselves, and each other, and I'll talk to you soon.
Can't believe it got up to 28 degrees yesterday! Actually hard to sleep it was so hot upstairs. Turned the ceiling fan on...then the temp dropped in the night. Phew.
You see - we can talk about the weather forever. And I know how interesting it is to other people.
Pat and Tony will be moving in here tomorrow while we're away - bringing their dogs and looking after Trudy. We're off to Ste Agathe tomorrow, to spend the night with a couple of friends at Lac manitou. Then I'll be giving a talk to the local Canadian Club. Then on Wednesday I have a talk to the Protestant School board members. Then on Thursday we fly to Washington for Malice Domestic.
That's a fun 3 day convention for mystery readers and writers - especially in the Tradiitonal gnre. I really like Malice Domestic. Lots of fun. This year the guest of honour is Anne Perry.
After that - next Sunday - I have that event with Marcia Talley, Rhys Bowen, Elaine Viets, Mary Jane Maffini and GM Maillet at the B&N in Annapolis. 5pm. Then on monday I'll be heading to Pittsburgh for the Festival of Mystery.
Busy time.
And not sure when I'll get a chance to blog. Will try, but you might not hear from me for 10 days or so. Think of me at the Agatha Awards Saturday night...The Cruelest Month is nominated. But it's a hugely talented field!
Take care of yourselves, and each other, and I'll talk to you soon.
Wednesday, 25 February 2009
Great Company
brilliant sunshine, mild, temps minus 2
A stunning, perfect, Quebec winter day. Indeed, it started out slightly colder, but so clear and without a hint of wind that even at minus 8 it felt mild. And now it's warming up. Michael and I did some charoes this morning (breakfast in Cowansville - some mailing and banking, then shopping at our favorite store, Canadian Tire)then got home and fed the birds, or whatever those flying pigs are. Honestly, how they manage to eat so much and still take off is a mystery. But what a gorgeous day to work outside. The dogs were playing in the snow and Maggie was even chasing Trudy and wrestling for the ball.
Had wonderful news...the third book, THE CRUELEST MONTH, has been nominated for an Agatha Award for Best Novel in the US!!! The award is given away (and voted on) at Malice Domestic, at the beginning of May. Malice Domestic is a convention of readers and writers of Traditional mysteries...ala Agatha Christie.
And a huge congratulations to everyone on the shortlist...it's a VERY strong list of nominees, which I love because, honestly while I would always prefer to win I am totally happy to applaud for any one of them if they win...and feel they deserve the award. The other nominees are:
Donna Andrews
Rhys Bowen
Anne Perry
Julia Spencer-Fleming
Isn't that wonderful company??? Indeed, Rhys is the guest of honour at this year's Left Coast Crime convention, starting in a few days in Hawaii!
Must be off - want to write the March Newsletter. And put in more calls inviting people to Michael's 75th!
Hope you're well...speak tomorrow.
A stunning, perfect, Quebec winter day. Indeed, it started out slightly colder, but so clear and without a hint of wind that even at minus 8 it felt mild. And now it's warming up. Michael and I did some charoes this morning (breakfast in Cowansville - some mailing and banking, then shopping at our favorite store, Canadian Tire)then got home and fed the birds, or whatever those flying pigs are. Honestly, how they manage to eat so much and still take off is a mystery. But what a gorgeous day to work outside. The dogs were playing in the snow and Maggie was even chasing Trudy and wrestling for the ball.
Had wonderful news...the third book, THE CRUELEST MONTH, has been nominated for an Agatha Award for Best Novel in the US!!! The award is given away (and voted on) at Malice Domestic, at the beginning of May. Malice Domestic is a convention of readers and writers of Traditional mysteries...ala Agatha Christie.
And a huge congratulations to everyone on the shortlist...it's a VERY strong list of nominees, which I love because, honestly while I would always prefer to win I am totally happy to applaud for any one of them if they win...and feel they deserve the award. The other nominees are:
Donna Andrews
Rhys Bowen
Anne Perry
Julia Spencer-Fleming
Isn't that wonderful company??? Indeed, Rhys is the guest of honour at this year's Left Coast Crime convention, starting in a few days in Hawaii!
Must be off - want to write the March Newsletter. And put in more calls inviting people to Michael's 75th!
Hope you're well...speak tomorrow.
Sunday, 27 April 2008
A Lovely Grace
sunny, warm, highs 22
We're in Montreal now. Great flight - very smooth and easy. Front row seats! Makes a difference I tell you. Arrived back in time for cappuccino and carrot cake at our favorite Montreal bistro -on Greene Avenue. Walking distance from home. And it's an exquisite day! Feels like late spring. Buds on trees, daffodils out, grass green - no snow in sight. Though the doorman assures us snow is expected for Tuesday.
Snow? Really?
However, have to say that after winning the Agatha it could be a blizzard and I'd be happy. Funny how that works.
What a night it was. I've forgotten what I've told you. So you'll get it all again. Michael and I got to the cocktail at about 6:30. It was already a madhouse - everyone in evening dress, with wine and yakking it up. We had to set up the table we were hosting so we snuck into the ball room and found our table. 20. Lise had shipped us hardcovers of the US version of STILL LIFE as well as the chocolates (wait, this is sounding familiar - so I won't go on and on - or maybe I will....am. Stop it!)
We put them out, went outside, talked to a few people then it was time to head back into the ballroom for dinner.
What a sparkling evening. There were 400 people for the banquet. The place was backed and hopping. The people at my table were chosen by heaven. Wonderful, fun and funny people. One is a retired intelligence officer from the navy who now does gui8ded tours of Washington - including one for dogs and their owners (!!) - another two go to Cambridge (UK) to take summer courses, something Michael and I have been dying to do - and go to Heffers bookstore for their annual July crime dinner...which I was invited to this year. This is an incredibly small world. Almost all were libtrarians - whom I love so much I made Reine-Marie a librarian. It was just a gift of a table.
The 'official' speeches, which are often excrutiating at banquets were hysterical - starting with the divine toastmaster/author Dan Stashower. He was very, very funny - and pithy. The fan guests of honor were Ron and Jean McMillen and Elizabeth Foxwell.
A Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Peter Lovesey - who is charming and handsome and funny and brilliant. Just to be in the same room with him was amazing.
The US guest of honor was Charlaine Harris - whose books I don't know but after her speech I sure want to find them.
The Poirot award was given to Janet Hutchings and Linda Landrigan - editors of Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and Alfred Hitchock Presents.
And for the first time Malice Domestic had an International Guest of Honor. That was Lindsey Davis - who writes the Falco historical mysteries...which are brilliant. And she was extremely funny as well...talking about hosting a breakfast gathering of fans a few years earlier at a similar convention, and deciding as a joke to show up in bathrobe, slippers and curlers. Except no one realized it was a joke - and she still gets stopped by people asking if she's the same woman who went down to breakfast by mistake in her curlers and nightie.
And then if was time for the Agathas.
I was calm itself. Very Zen. At one with the universe and the chocolate mousse. Unflappable. Because I knew I wasn't going to win. I wouldn't have to (and didn't) worry about a speech, or getting up in front of 400 people. Normally at these things, or when I give lunch or dinner speeches I don't eat - nerves get me in the stomache. But last night I ate like a horse.
Before the awards were give out I went over to the St Martins Minotaur table to say hi - and to meet Charles Finch, whose remarkable debut mystery was up for Best First Novel Agatha. I'd blurbed his book - with great gusto. It's called A BEautiful Blue Death and well worth reading. I wanted to wish him luck.
Then the awards started.
The Agatha for best young adult mystery went to Sarah Masters Buckey for A LIGHT IN THE CELLAR
The Best Short Story Agatha went to: Donna Andrews for A RAT'S TALE
Best Nonfiction Agatha went to: Jon Lellenberg, Daniel Stashower (also the toastmaster for the evening) and Charles Foley for ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE: A LIFE IN LETTERS
The Best First Novel Agatha went to: Hank Phillippi Ryan for PRIME TIME
(Charlies Finch didn't win - but how fantastic to be shortlisted and distinguished from the sea of other great first novels...and he's going to have a great career.)
Then it was time for the real reason anyone was there - the most important moment in everyone's life (are you still awake???) The best Novel Agatha.
They read out the nominees:
Donna Andrews, for THE PENGUIN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH
Rhys Bowen, for HER ROYAL SPYNESS
Margaret Maron, for HARD ROW
Louise Penny for A FATAL GRACE
Elaine Viets for MURDER WITH RESERVATIONS
My hands were in the air ready to applaud whoever won.
The host read: And the winner is.... A FATAL -
Blood rushed to my head - and time stopped. I remember hearing a roar - could have been people, could have been blood. Never realized how similar (and sometimes inseperable) they are. Then I tilted backwards in my seat and clapped my hands over my face. And for an instant all went quiet...in my dark coccoon. Then I took my hands away - a glare of lights, hands on my shoulders, applause. Andy Martin the publisher of St Martins Minotaur had appeared right there. I think I hugged him. (he might have been on his way to the bathroom poor man, but he got mauled by me) then up the three steps (i counted - it all happened in an instant but also extremely slowly) to the stage. Verena Rose, the chair of Malice Domestic handed me the Agatha Award.
Even writing this I can feel tears.
All those years reading Agatha Christie - introduced by my mother. All the comfort traditional mysteries - Dorothjy L Sayers, Ngaio Marsh, Josephine Tey have given me. They're what I turn to still when life is unkind. I'd heard of the Agathas long before I even began writing. I'd heard of the teapot award, because that's what it is. A lovely teapot (actual size and useable) glazed a royal blue, and inscribed...Malice Domestic XX (20 - our year) and on the other side words I never, ever expected to see except as applied to someone else. Best Novel Agatha Award
I don't know what I said expect I looked at my hands at one stage and they were trembling. And beyond the quivering hands I saw a sea of smiling, kindly faces. Who only wanted the best for all of us. What a great community mystery reading and writing is.
I remebered to thank Michael. And Hope Dellon and Andrew Martin of Minotaur. And the other nominees. But don't know what else I said. And then in a daze I was back at my seat with a miraculous teapot in my grip that I didn't have to steal from Donna or Rhys or Margaret or Elaine.
Hope Dellon (who celebrated a birthday yestrerday and didn't tell us until this morning!!) said she'd express post the teapot home to us...since our luggage was already bulging and there was a real danger the teapot would break and I would die.
As some of you know, I really struggled writing the second book. Filled with fear I'd put all I had into STILL LIFE and there was nothing left. I know winning the AGATHA would be meaningful at any stage in my career, but to win it for A FATAL GRACE - a book that didn't come easily but was finally the book I really, really wanted to write is even more meaningful to me.
What a lucky person I am. As I wrote to someone this morning. I've grown to realize it isn't enought to have great good fortune (and I've had so much) but the real blessing in life is knowing how lucky I am.
Gratitude is the gift and the reward. And I'm filled with it. And cake.
We're in Montreal now. Great flight - very smooth and easy. Front row seats! Makes a difference I tell you. Arrived back in time for cappuccino and carrot cake at our favorite Montreal bistro -on Greene Avenue. Walking distance from home. And it's an exquisite day! Feels like late spring. Buds on trees, daffodils out, grass green - no snow in sight. Though the doorman assures us snow is expected for Tuesday.
Snow? Really?
However, have to say that after winning the Agatha it could be a blizzard and I'd be happy. Funny how that works.
What a night it was. I've forgotten what I've told you. So you'll get it all again. Michael and I got to the cocktail at about 6:30. It was already a madhouse - everyone in evening dress, with wine and yakking it up. We had to set up the table we were hosting so we snuck into the ball room and found our table. 20. Lise had shipped us hardcovers of the US version of STILL LIFE as well as the chocolates (wait, this is sounding familiar - so I won't go on and on - or maybe I will....am. Stop it!)
We put them out, went outside, talked to a few people then it was time to head back into the ballroom for dinner.
What a sparkling evening. There were 400 people for the banquet. The place was backed and hopping. The people at my table were chosen by heaven. Wonderful, fun and funny people. One is a retired intelligence officer from the navy who now does gui8ded tours of Washington - including one for dogs and their owners (!!) - another two go to Cambridge (UK) to take summer courses, something Michael and I have been dying to do - and go to Heffers bookstore for their annual July crime dinner...which I was invited to this year. This is an incredibly small world. Almost all were libtrarians - whom I love so much I made Reine-Marie a librarian. It was just a gift of a table.
The 'official' speeches, which are often excrutiating at banquets were hysterical - starting with the divine toastmaster/author Dan Stashower. He was very, very funny - and pithy. The fan guests of honor were Ron and Jean McMillen and Elizabeth Foxwell.
A Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Peter Lovesey - who is charming and handsome and funny and brilliant. Just to be in the same room with him was amazing.
The US guest of honor was Charlaine Harris - whose books I don't know but after her speech I sure want to find them.
The Poirot award was given to Janet Hutchings and Linda Landrigan - editors of Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and Alfred Hitchock Presents.
And for the first time Malice Domestic had an International Guest of Honor. That was Lindsey Davis - who writes the Falco historical mysteries...which are brilliant. And she was extremely funny as well...talking about hosting a breakfast gathering of fans a few years earlier at a similar convention, and deciding as a joke to show up in bathrobe, slippers and curlers. Except no one realized it was a joke - and she still gets stopped by people asking if she's the same woman who went down to breakfast by mistake in her curlers and nightie.
And then if was time for the Agathas.
I was calm itself. Very Zen. At one with the universe and the chocolate mousse. Unflappable. Because I knew I wasn't going to win. I wouldn't have to (and didn't) worry about a speech, or getting up in front of 400 people. Normally at these things, or when I give lunch or dinner speeches I don't eat - nerves get me in the stomache. But last night I ate like a horse.
Before the awards were give out I went over to the St Martins Minotaur table to say hi - and to meet Charles Finch, whose remarkable debut mystery was up for Best First Novel Agatha. I'd blurbed his book - with great gusto. It's called A BEautiful Blue Death and well worth reading. I wanted to wish him luck.
Then the awards started.
The Agatha for best young adult mystery went to Sarah Masters Buckey for A LIGHT IN THE CELLAR
The Best Short Story Agatha went to: Donna Andrews for A RAT'S TALE
Best Nonfiction Agatha went to: Jon Lellenberg, Daniel Stashower (also the toastmaster for the evening) and Charles Foley for ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE: A LIFE IN LETTERS
The Best First Novel Agatha went to: Hank Phillippi Ryan for PRIME TIME
(Charlies Finch didn't win - but how fantastic to be shortlisted and distinguished from the sea of other great first novels...and he's going to have a great career.)
Then it was time for the real reason anyone was there - the most important moment in everyone's life (are you still awake???) The best Novel Agatha.
They read out the nominees:
Donna Andrews, for THE PENGUIN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH
Rhys Bowen, for HER ROYAL SPYNESS
Margaret Maron, for HARD ROW
Louise Penny for A FATAL GRACE
Elaine Viets for MURDER WITH RESERVATIONS
My hands were in the air ready to applaud whoever won.
The host read: And the winner is.... A FATAL -
Blood rushed to my head - and time stopped. I remember hearing a roar - could have been people, could have been blood. Never realized how similar (and sometimes inseperable) they are. Then I tilted backwards in my seat and clapped my hands over my face. And for an instant all went quiet...in my dark coccoon. Then I took my hands away - a glare of lights, hands on my shoulders, applause. Andy Martin the publisher of St Martins Minotaur had appeared right there. I think I hugged him. (he might have been on his way to the bathroom poor man, but he got mauled by me) then up the three steps (i counted - it all happened in an instant but also extremely slowly) to the stage. Verena Rose, the chair of Malice Domestic handed me the Agatha Award.
Even writing this I can feel tears.
All those years reading Agatha Christie - introduced by my mother. All the comfort traditional mysteries - Dorothjy L Sayers, Ngaio Marsh, Josephine Tey have given me. They're what I turn to still when life is unkind. I'd heard of the Agathas long before I even began writing. I'd heard of the teapot award, because that's what it is. A lovely teapot (actual size and useable) glazed a royal blue, and inscribed...Malice Domestic XX (20 - our year) and on the other side words I never, ever expected to see except as applied to someone else. Best Novel Agatha Award
I don't know what I said expect I looked at my hands at one stage and they were trembling. And beyond the quivering hands I saw a sea of smiling, kindly faces. Who only wanted the best for all of us. What a great community mystery reading and writing is.
I remebered to thank Michael. And Hope Dellon and Andrew Martin of Minotaur. And the other nominees. But don't know what else I said. And then in a daze I was back at my seat with a miraculous teapot in my grip that I didn't have to steal from Donna or Rhys or Margaret or Elaine.
Hope Dellon (who celebrated a birthday yestrerday and didn't tell us until this morning!!) said she'd express post the teapot home to us...since our luggage was already bulging and there was a real danger the teapot would break and I would die.
As some of you know, I really struggled writing the second book. Filled with fear I'd put all I had into STILL LIFE and there was nothing left. I know winning the AGATHA would be meaningful at any stage in my career, but to win it for A FATAL GRACE - a book that didn't come easily but was finally the book I really, really wanted to write is even more meaningful to me.
What a lucky person I am. As I wrote to someone this morning. I've grown to realize it isn't enought to have great good fortune (and I've had so much) but the real blessing in life is knowing how lucky I am.
Gratitude is the gift and the reward. And I'm filled with it. And cake.
Saturday, 26 April 2008
The spirit of Agatha Christie
sunny, hot, highs 80
stunning day in washington, again. Michael and I went for a walk outside - first time outside in two days! lovely. Met Julia Spencer-Fleming - a terrific writer who has a new book out in June. I'll be giving away 6 signed Advanced Review Copies for her latest - through the newsletter. If you haven't signed up for it yet, you might want to. It'll be the May edition.
Having a fun day. Just got back from lunch with hope Dellon - my editor at St Martin's Minotaur. Went to a tapas restaurant. I'm not all that familiar with Spanish cuisine so this was a treat. It also gave us another walk outside. Bliss.
This morning Michael and I went to the new authors breakfast here at Malice Domestic. Each author is interviewed by the MC for about 3 minutes. I remember doing it last year. Very scary. There must be 250 people in the room - that alone is enough to make you want to throw up - but then also needing to make sense and only having a few minutes. I have such respect for these authors who did such a great job.
Then at 9am I had the panel for the writers nominated for the Agatha for Best Novel. Also on the panel were:
Donna Andrews
Rhys Bowen
Margaret Maron
Elaine Viets would have been but she couldn't make the conference.
And moi.
Amazing company. Tonight is the bnaquet - and I completely expect to applaud when someone else's name is called. And you know, I'm just fine with that. I'd love to win an Agatha - but I genuinely will be happy no matter who wins. There have been awards I've been up for where I kinda thought maybe I should/could win. But not this one. This one I'm just delighted to have been on the shortlist.
Tonight lots of authors have been asked to host a table of 10. I'll be doing one - and my fabulous and attractive assistant Lise worked hard to design and get mugs for everyone at our table. But at the last minute the company said they'd be late! poor lise. After I finished whipping her we decided to give everyone signed copies of STILL LIFE and a small box of handmade chocolates from Muriel's Maison du Chocolat in the village I live in. Some of you might remember there's also - by sheer co-incidence - a Muriel's Maison du Chocolat in the books! What are the chances?
So I'll let you know how it goes tonight. And thanks to all the people who sent good wishes - I really appreciate it!
We head back to Montreal tomorrow morning so I'll probably write tomorrow afternoon.
Take care.
stunning day in washington, again. Michael and I went for a walk outside - first time outside in two days! lovely. Met Julia Spencer-Fleming - a terrific writer who has a new book out in June. I'll be giving away 6 signed Advanced Review Copies for her latest - through the newsletter. If you haven't signed up for it yet, you might want to. It'll be the May edition.
Having a fun day. Just got back from lunch with hope Dellon - my editor at St Martin's Minotaur. Went to a tapas restaurant. I'm not all that familiar with Spanish cuisine so this was a treat. It also gave us another walk outside. Bliss.
This morning Michael and I went to the new authors breakfast here at Malice Domestic. Each author is interviewed by the MC for about 3 minutes. I remember doing it last year. Very scary. There must be 250 people in the room - that alone is enough to make you want to throw up - but then also needing to make sense and only having a few minutes. I have such respect for these authors who did such a great job.
Then at 9am I had the panel for the writers nominated for the Agatha for Best Novel. Also on the panel were:
Donna Andrews
Rhys Bowen
Margaret Maron
Elaine Viets would have been but she couldn't make the conference.
And moi.
Amazing company. Tonight is the bnaquet - and I completely expect to applaud when someone else's name is called. And you know, I'm just fine with that. I'd love to win an Agatha - but I genuinely will be happy no matter who wins. There have been awards I've been up for where I kinda thought maybe I should/could win. But not this one. This one I'm just delighted to have been on the shortlist.
Tonight lots of authors have been asked to host a table of 10. I'll be doing one - and my fabulous and attractive assistant Lise worked hard to design and get mugs for everyone at our table. But at the last minute the company said they'd be late! poor lise. After I finished whipping her we decided to give everyone signed copies of STILL LIFE and a small box of handmade chocolates from Muriel's Maison du Chocolat in the village I live in. Some of you might remember there's also - by sheer co-incidence - a Muriel's Maison du Chocolat in the books! What are the chances?
So I'll let you know how it goes tonight. And thanks to all the people who sent good wishes - I really appreciate it!
We head back to Montreal tomorrow morning so I'll probably write tomorrow afternoon.
Take care.
Wednesday, 27 February 2008
Agatha Awards!
Snow ending this afternoon (10-15cms fallen), cold and windy, highs minus 8
Well, we just received the BEST news! A FATAL GRACE (Dead Cold in Commonwealth) has been nominated for the AGATHA AWARD for Best Novel!
The nominees are:
The Penguin Who Knew Too Much, by Donna Andrews (St. Martin's Minotaur)
Her Royal Spyness, by Rhys Bowen (Penguin Group)
Hard Row, by Margaret Maron (Grand Central Publishing)
A Fatal Grace, by Louise Penny (St. Martin's Minotaur)
Murder With Reservations, by Elaine Viets (NAL)
Yippeee!
What amazing company - and I have to say I'm both stunned and thrilled. This is voted on by readers, so it's even more significant. The winners are decided at the Malice Domestic convention in Washinton in April. You get a ballot upon registration.
To be considered for an award named after Agatha Christie is deeply meaningful to me. I adore her, as you know - and am indebted to her for hours of entertainment and comfort - and ultimately for a style of writing. My books are tributes, homages, to Dame Agatha.
I honestly didn't expect this, so I was trembling with excitement.
We actaully found out Monday afternoon, but were sworn to secrecy until all the nominees were told. Almost killed me not to tell you about it yesterday. Though it helped that, to celebrate, Michael whisked me off to Hovey Manor for the night. We were already going for breakfast Tuesdfay morning, but we decided - why not? Go Monday night, have a wonderful meal, and celebrate.
I believe in celebrating - you never know when all of this will disappear, after all. And what a gift this nomination is. Especially when you see the others on the shortlist.
We're in Montreal now - scooted in before the storm yesterday. Will write this morning then try to figure out how to get to the Montreal General Hospital for Michael's hearing exam. Snow - it's beautiful, but very hard to navigate.
I really am thrilled about the nomination. And I see that Charles Finch, who wrote, 'A Beautiful Blue Death' is nominated for an Agatha for Best First Novel. I read it in manuscript and wrote an endorsement...great, fun book - with depth. Set in Victorian England. Wonderful main character too. A book well worth buying. I'm not familiar with the other nominees in his catagory, though I'm sure they're good too. But I have a fondness for Mr. Finch.
Hope you're well and thriving - will write again tomorrow.
Well, we just received the BEST news! A FATAL GRACE (Dead Cold in Commonwealth) has been nominated for the AGATHA AWARD for Best Novel!
The nominees are:
The Penguin Who Knew Too Much, by Donna Andrews (St. Martin's Minotaur)
Her Royal Spyness, by Rhys Bowen (Penguin Group)
Hard Row, by Margaret Maron (Grand Central Publishing)
A Fatal Grace, by Louise Penny (St. Martin's Minotaur)
Murder With Reservations, by Elaine Viets (NAL)
Yippeee!
What amazing company - and I have to say I'm both stunned and thrilled. This is voted on by readers, so it's even more significant. The winners are decided at the Malice Domestic convention in Washinton in April. You get a ballot upon registration.
To be considered for an award named after Agatha Christie is deeply meaningful to me. I adore her, as you know - and am indebted to her for hours of entertainment and comfort - and ultimately for a style of writing. My books are tributes, homages, to Dame Agatha.
I honestly didn't expect this, so I was trembling with excitement.
We actaully found out Monday afternoon, but were sworn to secrecy until all the nominees were told. Almost killed me not to tell you about it yesterday. Though it helped that, to celebrate, Michael whisked me off to Hovey Manor for the night. We were already going for breakfast Tuesdfay morning, but we decided - why not? Go Monday night, have a wonderful meal, and celebrate.
I believe in celebrating - you never know when all of this will disappear, after all. And what a gift this nomination is. Especially when you see the others on the shortlist.
We're in Montreal now - scooted in before the storm yesterday. Will write this morning then try to figure out how to get to the Montreal General Hospital for Michael's hearing exam. Snow - it's beautiful, but very hard to navigate.
I really am thrilled about the nomination. And I see that Charles Finch, who wrote, 'A Beautiful Blue Death' is nominated for an Agatha for Best First Novel. I read it in manuscript and wrote an endorsement...great, fun book - with depth. Set in Victorian England. Wonderful main character too. A book well worth buying. I'm not familiar with the other nominees in his catagory, though I'm sure they're good too. But I have a fondness for Mr. Finch.
Hope you're well and thriving - will write again tomorrow.
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