Hitting the Road

By Heather

I’ve been traveling a lot lately, and the end isn’t in sight quite yet.

Last weekend I traveled with the Deadly Divas (Marcia Talley, Denise Swanson, Sharon Short and moi) on a mini road trip.

On Friday we met up for drive-bys of Nashville bookstores for quick stock signings. Lots of books, lots of Frappuccinos, and lots of great people.

From there we headed north to Bowling Green, Kentucky, for the Southern Kentucky Book Fest, a wonderful book fair featuring authors of all genres. The turnout was great, the sweet tea fabulous, and we had a great time presenting our panel. Our moderator, Connie, did a wonderful job, fully embracing her inner diva while wearing a lovely purple feather boa.

Saturday afternoon we headed to Princeton, Kentucky, where Marcia has local ties. We stayed in a private home, an old Victorian gorgeous from the inside out. Detailed moldings, twelve foot ceilings, brasses on the steps, stunning hardwood throughout. Heaven, I tell you.

If you’ve never been to Princeton, I highly recommend you go. It’s one of those throwback towns, rich with history. It’s a county seat, and the art deco-style courthouse takes top billing in the town square, which has been lovingly restored. It’s the epitome of a small town, and was wonderful through and through.

I have to admit I was slightly terrified to eat at the Willow Pond, a local catfish restaurant, but much to my relief, they had items other than seafood (not a fan.) I even, get this, tried hush puppies and fried dill pickles—both quite good. As an added bonus the four of us were recognized from a front page article in the local paper. It was nice to feel famous for a little bit!

On Sunday, we had a panel at the local library, which opened that day just for us. Southern hospitality was in full force, and we had quite a nice crowd, thanks to word of mouth. I’m hoping it’s the first of many trip there.

Next week I head to Malice, one of my favorite conferences, and then up to Oakmont, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh, next Monday.

I confess, traveling can be exhausting, and I get terribly homesick, but I have to admit I love meeting new readers, catching up with old friends, and hearing from people who love my books.

Throw in a hush puppy or two, and I couldn’t ask for much more!

~heather