Thrillerfest

What's more exiting – meeting authors whom you idolize and getting your photo taken with them or listening intently while they share pearls of wisdom about writing?

ThrillerFest/CraftFest/PitchFest took place in one action-packed week in New York City. Sessions began at 0800 and continued into the evenings. At PitchFest, we pitched our novels to individual agents. ThrillerFest brought together zillions of published authors and emerging authors, including bestselling writers such as Lisa Gardner, Jeffrey Deaver, Michael Connolly, Ivy Pochoda, and Karin Slaughter.

I also met some very cool emerging writers such as Chicago’s Eric Anderson and St. Albert’s Laurie McLure Kolada, to name just two. Connecting with other authors allowed me to listen to their experiences, share mine, and reaffirm that I'm part of a larger group of emerging writers.

Susann with Lisa Gardner, Michael Connolly, Karin Slaughter, Ivy Pochoda, and Tammy Euliano

Susann & Lisa Gardner

I didn't want to scare Lisa Gardner into thinking I was an unhinged fan by telling her how I can't wait for the next novel to be published. Her books are so readable!

Karin Slaughter & Me

I have trouble putting down Karin Slaughter's books once I start reading. And then I dream about them.

Tammy Euliano & Susann

Since See Me: A Jeannie Johal Thriller is a medical thriller, I was pleased to meet Tammy Euliano, anesthetist and writer of medical thrillers, and a panelist who freely shared her experience writing thrillers. I read her books for the first time after attending ThrillerFest, and am delighted to report that she's an excellent writer.

Michael Connolly & Me

I have a friend who is recovering from a stroke and slowly reading again. Michael Connolly is his favorite author. Michael was so gracious in signing his book and writing an encouraging note for my friend.

Ivy Pochoda & Susann

I love Ivy Pochoda's sad yet triumphant stories and powerful, lyrical writing. The humanity in them reminds me of Michael Ondaatje's exquisitely written novels. Her portraits of women remained with me long after I finished reading.

The Late Show wih Stephen Colbert

What a thrill to stumble across this marquee while attending Thrillerfest!