The joys of virtual bookfests

A year ago I'd just finished one panel at Portsmouth Bookfest and was prepping for another couple. It was a brilliant festival and turned out to be the last live author event before lockdowns hit. I was delighted to find out it was going online this year and grabbed a couple of chances to take part. Last week I did a panel about 'finishing your book and doing something with it subsequently' and this week I was among a group of folk discussing lost detectives. Both times I ended up moderating and both times the panel appeared to be a huge success.

Now, there's something special about seeing people in person and I don't just mean the opportunity to sell one's books. There's an interaction that isn't available online. However, that's outweighed by several advantages of going 'Zoom'. We had people in the audience from all over the place, including the USA. People were able to put questions and remarks into the chat facility that wouldn't be possible in the usual setting as it would see rude. And, last but not least, no long drive home in the dark.

There are still some events coming up including the wonderful MysteryFest. Booking is online and very easy.