I was VERY nervous about having a book launch for Paying in Blood. A friend told me hers was like attending her own funeral ahead of her death. She had clearly enjoyed the experience, moved by compliments from family and friends, but the engineer/pragmatist within me preferred a couple of good Amazon reviews.
However, when neighbours suggested a joint "Celebration of Creativity" event - with an opportunity for local artist Richard Williams to show his work, and others to bring items they had made - I relented. This sounded more fun for everyone involved.
Highbury Church provided an excellent venue, with plenty of space and light. It was built in the 1930s, after the congregation sold their old roofless Victorian building in the centre of Cheltenham to Odeon cinemas.
Church Secretary Mary helped photocopy publicity. Another friend Jane Jones agreed to interview Richard and me. Helen, from the church Cr-afternoon group, arranged the displays. Others organised refreshments, moved furniture and provided music.
By the time I collected the helium balloons, I was enjoying myself. Sharing the load really helped.
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It was great to be able to discuss the background to Paying in Blood, and vibrant Amsterdam in the early 1600s - the setting for Book 2. Also, to learn about Richard's art and see the beautiful things people had made, including items that had never been shown outside immediate family before.On reflection, the book launch felt like a "rite of passage" - something I was privileged to share with lots of wonderful people. Thank you to everyone who made it possible.
Photos with thanks to Zoe Haden and June Tremlett.
