"ThrillerFest IX - New York"

After a very long few weeks at work, I looked forward to getting away to the Big Apple. Yes! Not solely for fun but to attend ThrillerFest IX - a yearly conference put on by the International Thriller Writers ("ITW") at the Grand Hyatt (July 10 - 12, 2014). You see, almost a decade ago thriller authors began meeting, greeting and discussing their craft at this conference and this year I decided to join them.

First, the venue was perfect. The Grand Hyatt is very impressive with art work and fine dining. Second, the place was chock full of heavy hitters (Ann Rice, Scott Turow, Jeffery Deaver, John Gilstrap and the list goes on). It was great to rub shoulders with them as they appeared on panels, autographed my copy of FaceOff, dined at the banquet on Saturday night and hung out at the after party. I learned some good information which I'll incorporate into my writing. I can't wait to attend next year!

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