Bouchercon starts Thursday, and I sure wish I was going. I’ve been to several Bouchercons, and they have all been a blast. Lots of great people, interesting panels, cool books and a gathering of several friends I just don’t get to see otherwise.
But I’m not going to this one. It’s too far away. I’m in Portland, Oregon and the Bouchercon is in Raleigh, NC. That’s clear on the other side of the country, over 2,300 miles by air (if it can be avoided, I don’t fly) and over 2,800 by ground, if I were going to drive, which I’m not, as that’s waaay too far.
So those of you who are going, have fun. Find a cool new author, go to a panel, see friends, make new ones, hang out, buy some books. Most of all, enjoy!
What will I be doing while those at Bouchercon are indulging in their revels? Read the post below this for the answer: reading.
Tip the Wink 
Although I’ve been to lots of sf/fantasy cons, I’ve never been to a mystery/crime one. Is Bouchercon the pick of the bunch? I can’t think to go this year — I have another gig this weekend — I might pencil it in for next.
John, I think Bouchercon is the best convention for the mystery fan. If you are in an area where there is a smaller mystery con, such as Left Coast Crime which is in the west (here in Portland this year) each Spring, that’s a good way to go too, but Bouchercon is huge with the most of everything, authors, panels, books, people, you name it.
You’ll be missed, Rick.
Thanks, Bill.
Dang, wish I was goin’, too.
We coulda gone together…
Party!
No, not really, but we are here as are a bunch of people you know. Bill and some others will arrive tomorrow. The hotels are down the block from each other – I may be biased but the Marriott is nicer than the Sheraton in my opinion.
We got our book bags which weigh a ton. We got 7 books each – mostly trade paperbacks plus two hardbacks – and had no duplication. Good thing we drove the 500 or so miles.
Yep, par-tay up. The book bag contents… looking for a list at some point, OK? Glad the drive went well (I assume since you’re there and all). I wouldn’t like the hotels being far apart, and I’ve come to think being in the con hotel is the best choice, but a nicer place has it’s attractions. How’s the weather?
If it makes you feel any better, I have never been able to go …
There is a little plaza with a few lunch places. The Marriott is on one side and the Sheraton on the other. It’s about the equivalent of a city block.
The weather is gorgeous, sunny and 80, though they are predicting 67 and rain on Saturday.
Never been but would love to go
Charles, it’s going to be in New Orleans next year, a perfect chance for you to go!