The 2024 American Christian Fiction Writers Conference and Storyfest were held in New Orleans this year. Sure, I'm an author, but sometimes I turn into a squealing, joyful reader when I meet my favorite authors.
This year, I met and served on a panel discussion with Creston Mapes. He writes thrillers, and I've read most of them. Three years ago, I sent him a message through social media asking which conferences he recommends. He said ACFW.
He was so right! I attended the 2023 conference in St. Louis and met many amazing, friendly authors and readers. This year, Creston Mapes showed up for the Storyfest meet and greet.
It was all I could do to suppress the fan squeal and maintain some dignity. Did I have one of his books with me to sign? No. Did I have the presence of mind to get a photo with him? No. But it was a joy to talk to him.
The next morning we sat together on an author panel discussion. One of the questions was, "If you were stuck on a desert island, which book--other than the Bible--would you want to have along?"
Well, I named a title by Kristan Higgins.
Creston Mapes piped in, "Did you say, Creston Mapes?"
Ha! I said I'd want a funny book instead of a scary book when in a scary situation.
He gave me the side eye and an uh huh.
Hey, if anyone has a photo of me beside Creston Mapes from the ACFW conference or Storyfest, puh-leese send it to me through my website.
Here are the photos I took of authors and readers and fun Mardi Gras SWAG from reader/reviewer Judy Christiana. Her hubby Iggy is on the Thoth Crewe. It's a N'Awlins parade. Judy also gave Creston Mapes a pair of Mardi Gras theme socks that I hope he wears at next year's conference.
Judy is on the left. Beside her are Author Rebekah Millet, two lovely readers, and Creston Mapes.
On the left is the haul of goodies Judy Christiana gave me. The center photo shows Louisiana Author Morgan Tarpley Smith with a book she signed for Judy Christiana. On the right is my best friend, Caryn Frink, with ACFW Author Cynthia Ruchti.
I even had the educational experience of pitching book one of my new series to Steve Laube! What a knowledgeable and thoughtful gentleman! I'm planning to return to New Orleans for the next ACFW conference and Storyfest.
