Debs on Writing in New Orleans--or Not

DEBORAH CROMBIE: Hi from NOLA! I arrived on Tuesday, a few days early for Bouchercon 2016, Blood on the Bayou, (what a great name for the best and biggest mystery conference of the year) which officially started yesterday afternoon. Just in case we haven't already told you, a bunch of mystery writers get together with a bunch of mystery readers for three and a half days of panels and events...and parties. If crime writers know anything, it's how to have a good time.

So, Debs isn't writing, you say. But I am, actually. I'm working on the copy edit for GARDEN OF LAMENTATIONS, which must be finished by the middle of next week, and it's been great. I've spent my mornings working in blissful quiet in my room, and my afternoons and evenings exploring the French Quarter. I hadn't been to New Orleans since my teens and I am loving this city. You can see why it fires the imaginations of writers and artists and musicians. 

Here are just a few of the scenes that captured MY imagination:

I want to sit on this balcony and watch New Orleans go by!

And, then, wandering the French Quarter, I discovered writer porn! A paper shop called Papier Plume, filled with handmade journals (I bought this one. Isn't it cool?)

and pens and paper and ink wells and sealing wax...

 Isn't this the most fabulous place? I'm going back. I have my eye on an owl feather dip pen, just like Harry Potter's...

And I haven't even mentioned food. Another day.

Susan and Hank and Rhys are here, too, and we've managed to wave across the throngs. We are hoping to at least meet up for a drink.

READERS, how do you feel about NOLA?