The NEHW Spend the Evening at the New England Author Expo

by Rob Watts

Authors Tracy L. Carbone, Rob Watts, and David Price.

The New England Horror Writers participated in this evening’s New England Author Expo held at the beautifully lush Danversport Yacht Club in Danvers, Ma. The event was generously sponsored by Pear Tree Publishing in the Harbor View Ballroom, which made for a spectacular waterfront view and a relaxed atmosphere. Although a horrific thunder and lightning spectacle, along with torrential flash flooding almost put a damper (yes, pun intended) on the evening, luck was on our side as the clouds lifted and the sun once returned in time for our 4 p.m. opening.

Participating in the event was myself, NEHW co-chair Tracy Carbone, Director of Events Scott Goudsward, Robert Heske and fellow NEHW publicity committee writer David Price. Without being bias, our table was one of the best looking and most lively in the ballroom. Our storefront ensemble was a big hit with visitors passing by and unlike many fellow authors in the room, we had each other to keep things upbeat during the lulls. Many authors who attended this event solo had only themselves and a clock to stare at to keep themselves entertained. Turnout was decent, although I’m sure the threat of more rain and flooding jeopardized any chances of a larger crowd. That didn’t keep us down though. Sales were made by everyone at our table, but the success story of the evening was Tracy Carbone, not only in books, but her jams, pickles and bears were also a big success.

NEHW members’ books at New England Author Expo. Photo by Rob Watts.

Although the room was filled with mostly authors, there were many talented illustrators, a few publishers and even a guy who makes hand-made pens, which were really well made I must say. Musical entertainment was provided by local musician Digney Fignus. Also on hand was Mark Goddard of Lost in Space fame and WRKO Boston talk show host Michelle McPhee who was promoting her new book, A Mob Story. It was a fun evening with many great participants. Weather and attendance aside, we all agreed it was great event and we’d gladly do it again. Also worth a mention is the fact that David Price left from his own family vacation in New Hampshire to attend this event with us. Great team spirit Dave, we appreciate it!