I’m told all of the best writers are introverts. Many of you out there might be able to relate to the awkward situations that arise when a shy, introverted individual is thrust…no…deliberately walks, into the limelight. To get your books read, you must first write well. But after that, in this publishing environment, it’s up to you to sell yourself as well as your books. I wish I had a funny bone, could think of snappy comebacks, make small talk, or look perfectly calm in the midst of a panel.

I did survive my first panel at Left Coast Crime 2019, which bolstered my confidence no end. But I also burst into awkward comments in a loud voice while racing to obtain a copy of a just-released novel with James Ziskin, and accidentally fat-fingered a poop emoji to Catriona McPherson…for which I will be eternally apologizing. Sometimes, when introverts are so excited about the encouragement they receive, they burst into ‘song.’ Awkwardly. So yes, deep down, I am a true introvert, but I plan to get lots of practice at being a calm, confident writer at future conferences.