CRIME ON MY MIND

Victoria, here we come!

I've noticed several postings on Facebook lately bemoaning the arrival of colder temperatures and the inevitable S word. My shovels are at alert out in the back yard. This morning I wore an even thicker toque when out for my walk. And, I had the snow tires put on a couple of weeks ago. This week is was time for an undercoating. Of the car.

Let's face it, these are the routines of winter and we know it's going to come. However, if you're feeling dragged down by the thought, just think ahead to summer delights. In particular, that great Canadian event where you get to meet old friends and new, strut your stuff as an author, and probably even pick up some useful tips.

Of course, it's Bloody Words, the Canadian mystery conference! And in 2011, there's the added bonus of it taking place in beautiful Victoria, B.C. If you haven't yet visited this wonderful city, it really is a Canadian jewel and what a great excuse to see it.

Lou Allin and the Bloody Words gang has been busy for well over a year planning a weekend filled with panels, workshops, special author services, and of course, a to-die-for banquet.

Those author services include: a manuscript evaluation; the Bony Pete short story contest, and appointments with agents. Of course, there are the autograph sessions, the Mystery Cafe, and the dealer room to add that extra sizzle to the conference.

Check out the website at http://bloodywords2011.com/ for all the details plus the list of who has already registered. Probably, a lot of your author friends. It would make a great Christmas gift for a partner, or yourself! And you should book your hotel room soon, to make sure you're staying where all the action takes place.

The dates are June 3-5, 2011 at the Hotel Grand Pacific (and that's located at the inner harbour -- how wonderful!). Guest of Honour is Michael Slade; International GOH, Laurie R. King; Local GOH, William Deverell; and a first for Bloody Words, a Ghost of Honour, Amor deCosmos. MC is Denise Dietz.

What a great line-up. And believe me, it'll be fun! As a writer, as a reader, this is the one conference you really must attend. See you there!


Linda Wiken/Erika Chase