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@alex_segura beat me to the punch on this one (and did it better than I can), but some highlights of #bouchercon2019 and a gentle nudge for writers to go to conferences thread... (1/13)
I loved falling into step with @jverch75 like we had grown up playing together in our backyards. Rarely have I ever felt so much like I've been friends with someone forever, and I am so grateful for that experience. Even if I bought every book but his. (2/13)
Shit talking panels with @Drrramina was a religious experience. We are truly kindred spirit mean girls, and I will never be as cool as I am when I am around her (and, obviously, Bean). Hands down, coolest person I have ever had the privilege to know. (3/13)
The highlight of my mornings was standing in line to get breakfast with @emilyross816. Such a wonderful and radiant person. I would sit next to her on a plane any day. (4/13)
@pjoneswriter found a way to push me and encourage me to keep faith in writing and networking and doing all the shit we all have to do to stay afloat. Like getting punched in the mouth during an imaginary fencing match. (5/13)
I beat @StephofLegends' ass in pool. That's it. That's the highlight. She is also wonderful and hilarious. She holds (almost) nothing back. (6/13)
I was inspired almost to fucking tears watching @pjvernonbooks advocate for me. For someone who awkwardly "yes, ands" his way through social interactions, he shows his true, beautiful, selfless soul when his friends need help. And lord knows I need help. (7/13)
Watching @blacklionking73's pure joy at not just winning an award, but just fucking life, man ... just living and being around people ... it is the absolute best. That congratulatory hug post award was life affirming. (8/13)
Meeting @cheaddc in person and learning, as suspected, that she is the most wonderful, insightful person. During a panel, one of our group texted, "Cheryl is a national treasure." Truer words have never been texted in a group thread. (9/13)
Seeing @kellyekell do her thing in person is impressive, y'all. It's no bullshit. She really does more to help the writing community (especially crime writers of color) than anyone out there. And she should be celebrated for it at every opportunity. (10/13)
And I don't know if it's the Arkansas thing or what ... but I feel like meeting @Kelly_J_Ford was like meeting a long lost sister. Like, for real. And I have no doubt that I will be routinely making the effort to spend time with her and @pierogi_prince for years to come. (11/13)
This. This is why you go to conferences. It's not to sell books. I sold four, I think. It's not to get an agent (right, PJ? Right? Please say that's right!). It's not to solidify your brand or any of that shit. It's the people. (12/13)
You owe it to yourself to connect with people who make this all worth our time and energy. Worth the rejection and the heartache and the self doubt. If nothing ever comes of any of this, it will all still be worth it for the people it brought into my life. 
you guys. (13/13)
you guys. (13/13)
