On March 14th I had my first book signing event ever. I was scared stiff to read four small pages of my first book, DESIRE IN THE EVERGLADES. Me, facing a large audience? Ack!
Between my anxiety over this event, and the stress of having a new release out only three days before (LAWFULLY YOURS), sleep was no more obtainable than a pipe dream. Instead, I stared at my clock with its ugly red numbers staring right back at me – 4:30 AM. Only a two-by-four dropped over my head would have knocked me out.
Without any construction materials around to assist me, my mind raced all night, faster than a sprinter on steroids. Would I stumble over my words? Look back to see blank stares? Mumble so softly people would scream “What did you say?” Or worse, actually hear what I said, and still yell out the same thing.
Worse still, the fog and rain in Connecticut that night belonged to a scary movie. London, England would have been proud. I wondered who would be determined enough to come out on a night like that.
With the exception of the ominous weather, it was crazy for me to be nervous. After all, I am a lawyer. Though I handle only contracts now, I do have several jury trials under my belt. During these trials I never stammered once, nor did I feel my knees knock. So why was I so worried I couldn’t read four little pages of fiction? Because for once, the words would be personal to me.
This time my book was on trial. How would I be judged? Like a defendant, I found out that waiting for verdict is very daunting.
Signing the books at my event was stressful for me, too. I am not used to having anyone line up to speak with me – I’m not a sports star. I’m also not used to anyone asking for my autograph – I’m not a Hollywood celebrity. There is a large part of me that wanted to ask, “Umm, you really want me to sign this? Are you sure?”
I remember when I was around ten years old. Judy Blume was having a book signing in New York City. I waited on line for hours to see her. When it was finally my turn, I held up my copy of “Superfudge” and said: “I’ll never be as great a writer as you. But I want to be.” Judy Blume, bless her heart for dealing with an intimidated, star-struck kid assured me I could become an author if I wanted to be. (One day I hope to see her so I can tell her “thanks.”)
It was surreal for me to now be the one on line people were waiting to talk to. To sign my name with an authority I don’t yet feel. To read as if I was trying a case in court, my voice confident and strong.
What events have intimidated you? How did you get through it?
PART II of My First Book Signing Experience Friday (4/10/15)
Thank you, Chameleon Haircolor Cafe and Spa, North Haven, CT, for hosting me!
AMAZON LINK FOR LAWFULLY YOURS: http://www.amazon.com/Lawfully-Yours-Stacy-Hoff-ebook/dp/B00U7U2WCC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1425508177&sr=8-2&keywords=book+-+lawfully+yours
AMAZON LINK FOR DESIRE IN THE EVERGLADES: http://www.amazon.com/Desire-Everglades-Stacy-Hoff-ebook/dp/B00NFSMCYG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410289138&sr=8-1&keywords=desire+in+the+everglades.
Find Stacy on Social Media: http://www.facebook.com/authorStacyHoff Twitter: twitter.com/authorStacyHoff Web: http://www.stacyhoff.com
Nights of Passion 
Thank you, author / blogger Joanne Guidoccio for the like!
I love the like, author Beth Carter!
I can relate! By now, I’ve had about 25 signings but have anxiety each time! Even when I go to schools and read my children’s books to first and second graders, I’m afraid of those kids! LOL. Once I get started, though, it’s smooth waters. I bet it was the same for you. Congrats on your first signing. I was nervous because, as you know, I had my first novel reading and signing the same day! I was also a wreck the week before but it turned out great and I had the ladies laughing and wanting more! It is pretty amazing that you didn’t get worked up before a trial experience but you did for your own signing. I get it, though. Congrats on your second novel. I’m so impressed by you.
Beth Carter, it helps me to have support from authors like you, going through the same experiences.
Blogger summersrye, thank you for the like!
Oh Stacy, I had my first author reading in February. I totally get the nerves. I was a basket case–and I have lots of experience with public speaking, but it totally didn’t matter! They had balloons all over the floor and I opened with “I think they put the balloons down to see if the pregnant one could keep her balance.” Everyone chuckled, and it broke the ice, but I still was nervous. My legs were shaking and I kept moving one of my feet because I couldn’t stay still. Despite what people think, authors are human beings. Our work is so important to us. We want people to enjoy it, but we know that not every book is right for every reader. We know readers have a ton of choices. And we keep silently thinking “I hope you pick me and that you like me. I really do!”
It’s good to know other authors can relate. Thank you Bethany Averie! (Your books are great, I would have lived to be there.)
Kudos! Don’t think I couldn’t have done it!
I meant i dont think i could have done it…stupid auto correct on my phone. Lol
Kudos! Don’t think I could have done it!
Dale Ibitz, thank you! I love have your support!
AC Cockeril I always appreciate your likes! Thank you so much!!!
You had your name and book cover on a giant screen. How cool is that for a first book signing! You go, girl!
Yes, it was cool, Catherine Castle. I almost fainted when I saw their TV! Thanks so much for the well wishes!!!!
Congratulations Stacy! You are fun, have an honest smile and I loved the pace of this blog. Written with heart and beautifully. Keep on truckin’ girl.
Thank you so much,Gail Ingis!
Shondrabrock, thanks so much for the like!