Coming soon to a venue near(ish) you...

The next few months are starting to look very busy...

Of course the big news is my BOOK LAUNCH on 27th July (I've mentioned that already? Are you sure?), but there are a number of other places I'll be visiting in June, July and August, specifically with the writing...  So far we have:

• Doncaster - Steampunk Doncaster, June 16th
  
  
• Reading  - Author reading event, Oxfam bookshop, June 19th
  
  
• Markfield Steampunk Convivial, July 14th
  
  
• Stamford Steampunk, August 10th.
  
  

Having been to some other launches and events for other people recently, it's got me thinking about what people who go along to a book event actually want to get out of going.  It's a chance to meet the author, certainly, learn a bit more about what went on in the creative process, maybe, pick up a copy of yourself.... But what would make the event really stand out for you (please note, the author wrestling a bear, or even wrestling bare, is not an option)?

I've seen readings recently, done by very good readers; and of course the author knows exactly what inflection to put onto anything that he or she reads himself (or herself). But how long should a reading be? How much backstory should it include, how many teasers of the plot (spoilers!). Or should it be a reading at all?

I have plans for the launch event itself to be a little bit different.  I'm working on it now... but I'd be interested in your feedback.   What would really make you sit up and pay attention; what would make you drag your mates along (excluding bears/ bareness). I've got some ideas... but I'd be very interested to hear yours... and you never know, if I like it I might use it. Then you'll have no excuse not to come along...

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