In a few days, I will get to attend my first writer convention as an author – pretty dang exciting! The Left Coast Crime conference is in Portland this year (lucky us). Crimelandia takes place from Thursday through Sunday. I’ll get to connect with writer friends, meet new readers, present a one minute schpiel during the debut author breakfast on Friday morning, and participate in a great panel that same day from 11:30-12:15, “Laughing Ain’t A Crime: Balancing Humor in Crime Fiction” (yes, I borrowed the title for this blog post:).

Not sure what to expect as a panelist (and a bit nervous to feel the truth), but I’m sure it will be great fun, especially since we have the witty and engaging Catriona McPherson as our moderator.

LOVED her latest book, The Day She Died, a cool and creepy story with a touch of dark humor. It’s nominated for an Edgar!

And check out my fellow panelists:

Mike Befeler – Mike writes “geezer-lit (!)”Mystery Scene Magazine says he “portrays the grumpy, arthritic, and sometimes amorous retirement home residents in a down-to-earth way that’s refreshing. Sometimes sad, but mostly funny, his tale of a plucky and sarcastic ‘old fart’ will win your heart.”

Heather Haven - Like me, Heather is a former theater geek (and playwright) who now writes mysteries, including the award-winning Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries. She’s also a ghostwriter like me – I wonder if we’re psychic twins?

Helen Smith – Another playwright/mystery writer! Helen writes the Emily Castles Mysteries. Booklist calls her “gin-and-tonic funny” (isn’t that the best compliment ever?)