Wow, just wow.
The first weekend of November saw me exhibiting at Adelaide Supanova for the third time. It also represented two years of having my work in print, as AdSupa was my first event back in 2016. I feel a real connection to this event, so I was very much anticipating rolling in for the third time, with a new title at the ready – Apocalypse: Diary of a Survivor 3.
For the record, I feel the third instalment is my best piece of writing in that series – no pressure while I’m writing the first draft of 4 – but more on that in a later post!
I also wanted to try something new this event. Over the past year or so, wherever I have gone back to exhibit at an event again, I have had people return to buy more books. It is something I value greatly, as I feel it’s a sign that I’m on the right path in terms of what I write and how I write it. But it’s more than that, it’s a chance to build a connection with someone who likes what I’m doing (priceless) and, for this lil’ author, it is a massive motivator to keep writing.
Anyway, having felt the motivation those interactions of goodwill bring me, I wanted to try to capture them in a way that would last beyond the moment. So, I got myself a little guestbook for return readers to write into (if they wanted to). It didn’t have to be anything deep or profound… just whatever popped into their head.
I couldn’t believe the response! Not only from people coming back to buy again, but for those who were just saying hi and happy to write some kind words in the guestbook (yes, so far, all kind words). For everyone that did either – thank you . It means a lot to this indie author. It was also great to meet a whole bunch of new readers – thanks for taking a chance on me and my work – hopefully you’re enjoying!
In all, my third Adelaide Supanova was such an amazing weekend. Beyond the sensational support, exhibing next to KE Fraser and Kylie Leane, catching up with the other local indie authors was enjoyable as always – there were even some new kids on the block this time around. One of whom, Luke Green, became inspired to write in part from reading Apocalypse: Diary of a Survivor as well as hearing my publishing journey. It was super cool to see him make his exhibiting debut – his One Life book is really good, too!
As for my guestbook. It’s now on it’s fourth page of comments from that one weekend. Ridiculous! The words within are just… humbling. It is a treasured possession and sits right next to my laptop where it can (and will) keep me motivated over the next few months as I pen (or is that keyboard) Apocalypse 4.
Thanks everyone for helping make my Supanova.
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I spend the rest of the year doing a few Christmas markets around Adelaide – Leigh St (x4) and Bowden Plant 4. As well as finalising the drafts for Zombie RiZing 7-9.
The markets were fun and a great chance to meet new readers. I might not pack my schedule so busy next year, but it was worth it.
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