Deborah Harkness comes to Norwich

Tonight I went to see Deborah Harkness speak at Waterstone's. She's the author of The All Souls Trilogy, one of my favourite fantasy series. I was so excited that she was coming to Norfolk! 

I must admit I was a little nervous, you never know what your favourite authors will be like in "real life"; but I had nothing to worry about, she was amazing. Lovely, funny, a great speaker and really inspirational. I've been feeling a little down lately, everything in life seems to be taking so long - especially my book. Who knew that a book that takes you a few days or weeks to read actually takes years to write? I certainly didn't and I have been getting frustrated.

Deborah said that she's pleased if she writes two pages a day. That's about what I've been managing, so that was a huge relief. She also said a lot of things I've said to people before and got slightly strange looks - like characters come to life as you're writing them and they do things you don't expect. Also that she's got lots of stories simmering at the back of her brain, just waiting to be written. I feel the exact same way and it was reassuring that I'm not alone.

Deborah also said she thought her Mum would be only one to ever read her book - a feeling I've shared on many, many occasions. She has given me courage and optimism that if she can do it, then maybe, just maybe I can too.

Meeting the lovely Deborah and getting some words of wisdom of finishing editing my novel. She liked my necklace, it's one of my book butterflies. I promised to make her one and sent it to her.

Deb from Waterstone's had created a fantastic event with lots of Book of Life related items, including wine glass labels, cupcake flags and candles (battery powered to avoid flames and books - never a good combination).

I was impressed with how many books Deborah signed - her hand must have hurt by the end. I'm so pleased to add these books to my collection.

The very yummy Red Velevet Cupcakes.