Well, I went to the store signing. Eight people.
Eight *enthusiastic* people, mind you, including some net denizens (among them Matt who had to assure me he’s not a stalker since he keeps showing up at functions I’m attending.) And John Ordover, my editor on the Trek novels and “Apropos” came all the way in from Brooklyn. Everyone was attentive and interested and enjoyed the reading and, unlike the last time I did a book signing, no one came by to proclaim loudly that everything I write sucks, so that was a plus.
But the store clerks said in disappointment, “Gee, y’know, so many people expressed interest, we really hoped for a much larger crowd.” It wasn’t said to be hurtful; it was, however, typical. I hear it all the time and I’m just tired of letting store owners down. Bottom line, I don’t draw in the hundreds of fans at bookstores that other authors do. Fans of mine go to conventions. There I get huge lines. And on very rare occasions, in comic book stores (although preferably if I have an artist next to me.) Other than that, no. And it’s a lot of effort for very minimal practical return. So that’s that for store signings. My conscience is clear on that score.
And in answer to the one person who asked: Well, I didn’t bowl so hot, but I’m trying some new stuff with my delivery, so I was expecting my average to take a hit. However, I rolled well enough to beat my opponent two out of three games and win my overall match point, so that helped.
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