Susan Dennard (Author of Something Strange and Deadly) Q&A Jan. 20-23rd

[Jenny, Always smiling! :-D]

Okay, members this is your last day to ask Susan any questions you may have!

Susan, thank you so much for coming and visiting our group, this has been so much fun!!

[Jenny, Always smiling! :-D]

I wish I could get to RT this year--since it was in New Orleans, I decided to skip it. If it had been in Chicago, I probably would have gone. Also really want to go to BEA someday--but I'm guessing it will probably be 2017 before I can make it--I have kids graduating high school in the next few years, and BEA is always towards the end of May, so a major conflict! I am, however, going to UtopYA this year, which is smaller, but I'm super excited!!

Have you been to RT or BEA in the past? What advice could you give for fans as far as going to a book convention?

[Susan]

You're so, so welcome, Jenny! And thank you to EVERYONE for having me! It's been an absolute pleasure.

29. Heather--Did you have critique partners/writer friends when writing your first book, or did that come after your book deal?

Oh absolutely!! I couldn’t have gotten a book deal as quickly as I did if not for all the fabulous feedback from my CPs.

Though who my CPs are has changed over the years (mostly it’s shrunk and I rely on a handful of people rather than 5 or 6 like I used to), I still can’t live without them. They read EVERYTHING before I ever give it to my agent/editor. And, of course, I read for them in return. :)

30. Jenny--Have you been to RT or BEA in the past? What advice could you give for fans as far as going to a book convention?

I’ve been to BEA, but 2014’s RT will be my first (woot, woot!). My advice is to get a game plan before you arrive at a convention. They're like Disney World for readers, so get familiar with the floorplan (it’s easy to get lost! Or…I did.), figure out who you want to see (and for signings, plan on lines!), and then get your times all sorted out so you don't accidentally miss someone you REALLY want to see.

Also, bring water and snacks. You never know when you might be stuck in a long line or have to go without food if four of your favorite authors are speaking in a row. ;)

[David, Mr. Blue Eyes; He's the Best--Ain't no lie!! ;)]

Thank YOU, Susan!! This has truly been an AWESOME Q&A, thanks for being so generous with your time and for giving us so many insights into the woman behind the books!

All the best and we can't wait to read more from you :)

[Jenny, Always smiling! :-D]

Susan wrote: "You're so, so welcome, Jenny! And thank you to EVERYONE for having me! It's been an absolute pleasure.

29. Heather--Did you have critique partners/writer friends when writing your first book, or d..."

Thanks for the advice! I hope you have fun at RT!!

And thanks again, this was a really fun week, loved hanging out and chatting with you!