I am enamored with book panels, as they offer a glimpse into the inner workings of a writer’s mind – their creative process, inspirations, and hidden meanings. As a reader, I am able to form my own interpretations, which is a truly enriching experience. Attending such panels is a priority for me, and I make a concerted effort to do so regularly.
This month, I had the privilege of attending a book panel featuring esteemed authors Darcy Coates and Danielle Valentine in New Jersey. Serendipitously, the event was arranged by Darcy’s publicist, and I consider it a fortuitous occurrence. Darcy was promoting her latest work, “Dead of Winter,” which I have reviewed on my blog and highly recommend to fans of thrillers and ‘whodunits.’ The book’s dark and visceral tone captivated me, and I was pleasantly surprised by Darcy’s demeanor – soft-spoken and amiable. It was her first time in America, and I extend a warm welcome to her.
Next, I must commend Danielle Valentine, who previously wrote under the pen name Danielle Vega. Though I had not read her earlier works, I found myself transfixed by her every word, much like a moth drawn to an ultraviolet light. Her eloquence left me speechless, and I hung on to her every utterance. I must confess, I was on the verge of spontaneous combustion, my wings flapping and antennas twitching in excitement. In fact, I had to remind my fiancée to refrain from speaking during her presentation, as I was so enthralled by her eloquence. Danielle’s discussion of her latest book as a form of catharsis and her realization that she is a horror, not a fantasy, writer left a lasting impression on me. It was as if all the pieces finally fell into place – my interest in horror, my fascination with medical procedures, and my experience with pain and suffering – all culminating in my current project, a visceral, slow-burning medical horror novel. I shared this revelation with my fiancée, who captured the moment in photos that I now proudly display. My excitement and determination to pursue this project were palpable, as I have firsthand knowledge of the subject matter and am eager to weave it into a compelling narrative.
Since that enlightening evening, I have made significant progress on my novel, currently on Chapter 5 and eagerly plotting out my characters’ trajectories. Though I am unfamiliar with the editing, agent, and publishing processes, I am committed to continuing my writing journey and sharing glimpses of my progress on my author account. This experience has been truly transformative, and I am eager to see where it leads me.
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