Under The Never Sky Book Launch Party!
Every now and then I get to do things that make me ecstatically happy - like attending a friend's book launch and hanging out with some of my favourite people. It was so much fun to drive six hours up the coast to quaint, toney Danville CA and sweep into Rakestraw Books to find piles of this now very familiar cover stacked up on the first table as I walked in.
Although I was on time the bookshop was already heaving with fans clutching multiple copies of UNDER THE NEVER SKY as they stood in line to get them signed. Perhaps it was the champagne that made the line feel like it moved fast, or maybe it was the warmth and efficiency of the staff, but I absorbed the waves of optimism and excitement like clean air after a smoke-filled room.
The last few months have been hard, but sharing the birthday of a new book gave me a huge boost, and fired me up to get my own book out there without further procrastination! It's certainly a nerve-wracking process, releasing a book into a world that may judge it harshly; but being stuck in stasis is a kind of living death, anyway. So why not chuck it out there, see what happens, and move on to the next one?
From the way the books flew off the shelves on Saturday, Veronica Rossi has nothing to worry about with her debut. She's on her way to stardom, and I'm thrilled I will always be able to say "I was there when it all began."
Me (left) with Veronica (right)
Rakestraw Books
The Vine wine bar after-party (image: Sherman Chu)
Sorry, you can't have this one. It's mine, all mine.
(15) awesome folk have had something to say...
Jackie Pynaert -
January 10, 2012 at 9:22 pm
So great! Wasn't it! Still dreamy over the whole thing. And what a wonderful shot of the two of you! Seriously, you both look stunning!!! And yes, Lia, the world awaits your greatness, me included. Enough stalling, let's get on with it so I have a reason to fly out to Cali, again, shall we???? xo
Lia Keyes -
January 12, 2012 at 11:31 am
Jackie, you are the most amazing friend to Veronica, flying all the way from Canada for her launch. I'm just so glad I was able to be there and catch up with you. You give the best hugs!
Joanna -
January 11, 2012 at 3:26 am
Thrilled that you had such a special time, Lia. Gorgeous photo of you and Veronica! I have never been to a book launch, let alone the launch of a good friend, I can only start imagining the buzz. Wishing you lots of mojo to get yours finished as we want to see this one too!
LiaKeyes -
January 12, 2012 at 11:33 am
Thank you, Joanna! You know what's funny? I was strongly reminded during Veronica's launch of that wedding day optimism—writer and book being launched into a bright new future together—and the happiness in the room made everyone look beautiful!
Elizabeth Varadan -
January 11, 2012 at 6:17 am
What a lovely debut! Looks like such a fun party and the book looks and sounds great. Best wishes for your own book's debut. I know it will be a winner.
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LiaKeyes -
January 12, 2012 at 11:34 am
Thank you, Elizabeth! Hopefully I won't be too bent and silver-haired by the time that happens! :)
Robert Sloan -
January 12, 2012 at 6:51 pm
Awesome! It sounds like it was a joy. Can't wait to hear about yours!
Or get to my own. I just got a fantastic critique of my 2010 book, Sabertooth, got it sorted out and planned now. Once the rewrite's done I'll be getting ready to launch it this year either indie or e-publisher. Complete with happy supporting site about prehistoric cats that I can decorate with plenty of author art.
Lia Keyes -
January 14, 2012 at 7:26 am
I know you'll make it beautiful, Robert, as I've seen your art and I can't imagine anyone else who could do it with more empathy and understanding of cats' inner spirit! Good luck with the revision!
Shelley Souza -
January 14, 2012 at 6:54 am
Veronica looks ecstatic, as she should, the two of you look beautiful together. Wonderful to hear the launch inspired you. I don't know about your hair going grey but mine definitely is turning silver, waiting for Tempus (tick tock, tick tock). So let's have it, then (please)...your long-awaited debut novel.
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LiaKeyes -
January 14, 2012 at 7:41 am
I'm up early, working on it, Shelley! :)
@V_Rossibooks -
January 17, 2012 at 1:40 am
OH LIA! It was so incredible having you there. You are amazing, and I can't wait to be first in line at your launch!
LiaKeyes -
January 21, 2012 at 3:04 pm
That would be truly awesome!
Jackie Pynaert -
January 21, 2012 at 12:18 pm
So great to be there and catch up with you, as well! Oh, and love that new Website of V's, too, Lia! Looking spectacular! Nice work, you! Hugs to you TOO! Someday, hopefully, I'll get you to work some magic for me, too?
LiaKeyes -
January 21, 2012 at 3:03 pm
Of course, Jackie. Anytime. :)
Robert Sloan -
January 29, 2012 at 11:48 am
That is so cool! Thanks for all the photos and description of the launch. That sounds like you had a wonderful time - and I'm happy for Veronica, she's on her way to the top. Go you, both of you!
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