A Book Launch in Style

by Julia Smith














Our own Popculturediva, Pam Callow, held a book launch last week here in Halifax, Nova Scotia - and I thought I'd take everyone along for a how-to on doing it right.














First - write an amazing book. Like Pam's debut thriller, Damaged.














Next - find a fabulous venue like The Carleton, jam-pack it with people and feel the anticipation vibe rise into the evening air.














Have someone very dear to you, someone who knows just what it's taken for you to show your true grit, to write the amazing book, find an agent, make connections with editors and finally sell your book - have this person raise a toast to you, celebrating the magic of this dream-come-true moment.

Preferably this someone will be your husband, and your husband will say the most romantic toast. It will definitely put a glow in everyone's heart and a tear in their eyes.














Make sure there's a table filled with loads and loads of your debut thriller, as well as multiple pens or markers. Then you can begin that moment you've visualized for so long - your book signing!














Send champagne to all of the people celebrating with you, those who always believed in you when the going was tough - especially people like your critique partner and fellow Diva Kelly Boyce, shown here at right.














Be sure you've included booksellers on your invitation list, like Carolyn shown at center. Graciously mention your Romance Writers of America chapter in your own speech, a chapter which includes the three women pictured here. Revel in the mutual support - even mingle if you get a minute!







And last but not least, be sure to release your inner shining star as you give your book reading.