5 Reasons Why #IndieLoveLA Was Awesome

So, Indie Love L.A. was this past weekend, and it was pretty awesome. Not only is L.A. forever one of my favorite cities (it never feels like I'm just visiting when I'm there) but IndieLove is one of my favorite yearly events for many reasons.  Here are a few reasons why: 

1. IndieLove was one of the very first events to shine a spotlight on the indie author and reader community. And that's super important. My very first real book signing was at Indie Love, and that's exactly what it was too, all love. ​

2. Seeing women who love books come together is lovely. It's no secret that the black women writers are often overlooked, underserved and marginalized in the publishing world. Independent publishing platforms have provided a much-needed space for us to flourish and tell our stories, which do matter. Indie Love has played a big role in the support of these writers, and that is awesome.  Also, I love how supportive authors are of one another. Seriously, it's so inspiring to see that kind of support. 

 3.  I love meeting readers. Y'all,  I'm pretty introverted, and not in the cool way that's trendy right now. This is a thing has admittedly only gotten worse since I've been working from home almost exclusively for the past nine years. I'm not a hermit or anything—I definitely do get out regularly but yeah, making small talk is sometimes draining for me. But meeting readers? Man. I love, love, love y'all. You make me smile and blush and just feel fantastic, and I'm so appreciative of you, seriously. I don't take the time you spend reading my books for granted— not at all. ​

*Also, shout out to my aunt Kathy and uncle James who took a break from their anniversary celebration to pop in and say hi to me-- and provide us with snacks! Love y'all! 

4. I had the best nectarines and plums possibly ever. This has nothing to do directly with #IndieLove, but the day after the event, I went to brunch with my #BMHSS homie (and dope writer/person), Lily Java. There was a farmer's  market right next to the restaurant, and DUDE. I rarely pass up a good fresh peach (my husband can tell you this), and that little farmer's market in L.A. took the entire trip to the next level. ​

5. The panels were so fun. Back to the actual event-- I did two panels, both of which were fantastic. I was admittedly pretty nervous about the one I did with my husband, Mike Jordan. We didn't prep at all, so what you got was what you got—off the cuff, authentic and real (awkward). Ha. 

All that to say: I can't wait until #IndieLove2019!
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