Robin Agnew
We host lots of author events of course, all enjoyable in their own way, but an especially enjoyable author event to host is one where a) you’ve known the author since her first book was published; and b) you are actually a giant fan. Both “a” and “b” apply to Rhys Bowen.
Rhys visited us the first time with Janet Dawson when her first Evan Evans novel was published. She and Janet had eaten lunch at Zingerman’s and met some ladies they convinced to come to the signing that evening. It was not too well attended, but it wasn’t horrible. At that point (I’m not sure how long Rhys kept doing this) Rhys brought along a traditional Welsh hat that she wore during the signing. It went well for a first book signing.
At that time I wasn’t sure where the careers of either woman would go – Janet had just been bumped down to PBO status (and her books were very solid and enjoyable P.I. outings) and I thought the Evans books were charming but I couldn’t tell how successful they would be.
Rhys’ next visit came mid-series with her Evan Evans books, before she had found her Molly Murphy muse. This one WAS sparsely attended, and I felt awful – one of our most loyal customers (and book club members) attended, as did a woman who was a Welsh ex-pat and who just wanted to touch base with someone else who had been to Wales. She, frankly, was a little bit of a downer.
Then a few years passed. Murphy’s Law was published. For us it remains one of our best selling titles of all time. Before this most recent visit, we couldn’t keep it in stock. About three books into “Molly”, Rhys returned. I set up a companion dinner and companion book signers (Sharon Fiffer and Libby Hellman) and my friend Patti O’Brien brought a van load full of her book club readers over from the Detroit area. The place was packed to the rafters.
A few more years passed, and Rhys started writing her Lady Georgie books, which also are steady sellers for us. When she came this time around I borrowed space, rented chairs, and enjoyed another full house with a smooth and delightful talk by Rhys who is at this point a total pro at discussing her books – and making the audience want to read them. One couple had driven five hours to see her.
I like this full circle of a career, not that Rhys’ career is over, but it’s great to see it in full bloom, and think back to the event with only a loyal book club customer and a depressed Welsh woman. Sometimes there are good things in life, and it’s good to enjoy them when they are happening. I look forward to another visit sometime – maybe next time with a “Georgie” book.
