West of Mars\' Rocks \'n Reads

I got word of this a day or two ago, but now that it’s official, I can tell you all.

My local indie bookstore was awarded the prestigious Raven award by the Mystery Lovers of America.

Here’s the letter from the Mystery Lovers Bookshop:

We are pleased as punch to announce that Mystery Lovers Bookshop will receive the 2010 Raven Award from the Mystery Writers of America in recognition of our contribution to the world of mystery writing. The award is a tribute to our extensive program of author events and most especially The Festival of Mystery, entering its 15th year in 2010.

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our staff and our customers for making it possible for us to win this award. And, of course, a special tip of the hat to the hundreds of authors who have visited us and helped to promote our store to the mystery-writing community. You know who you are.

‘Nuff said right there. Except… you know you can order online through them, right? And not just mysteries, either! (Trust me. I’m the queen of this.)

I hope this means you’ll all be able to join me at this year’s Little Festival of Mystery. My kids are old enough now; I’m hoping to volunteer my time at last.

Welcome to West of Mars Rocks and Reads.

I think I’m nuts for starting up a THIRD blog devoted to books. Whatever. This one’s going to be different from The Meet and Greet and Win a Book. Very different. For starters, this is a group effort. If you want to be part of the group, or if you’d like to borrow Rocks and Reads for a post or two, feel free. You’re as welcome here as I am.

Second, there are now two rules:
1. Do what you want. (Well, within reason.)
2. Don’t start something you expect Susan to clean up for you.

Other than that, let the books and the reading and the rocking begin!