First Book Signing of 2026!

It never fails – I always get nervous before an author event, and notj ust because I have to talk with people I don’t know! There’s also the fear that “What if nobody shows up?” Or “What if there are people here, but they aren’t interested in me and my book?” You never know until you are in the thick of it.

Such was the case this past Saturday at Fred & June’s Books in Mooresville, N.C. (the Lake Norman area). When I got to the store that morning, I set up my display, took my seat, and waited. The first few customers trickled in…and walked past me. My stomach sank, thinking it was going to be a long day.

But a few minutes later, I made my first sale. The store filled up—Fred & June’s Books has a loyal customer base and downtown Mooresville was hopping, so foot traffic was good. 

So what turned out looking like a disappointing day ended up to be a special one. I sold more books than I expected, and I talked to people about THE BLACKSMITH’S BOY until my voice was hoarse. I also picked up a lead about something big happening this summer (fingers crossed on that!)

I was particularly happy to see my old college friend Darin Kennedy, the author of numerous fantasy novels. I picked Darin’s brain, caught up on life, and made plans to come to one of his events soon. Great to see him!

Oh, and I’ve got another bookstore signing coming up. On Sunday, Feb. 22 from 2-4 p.m., I’ll be signing at Folk & Fable Co. in Cary, N.C.  If you are in the Raleigh/Durham area, I’d love for you to come out and say hello!