Plymouth Launch!

On Friday, September 7th, Plimoth Plantation graciously hosted a launch party for Monstrous Beauty in their gorgeous Gainsborough Hall. The hall was decorated with enormous sea shells, fish netting, and a giant mermaid stencil. More than fifty guests showed up, and I got to meet Lauren J., a lovely blogger I first met on Twitter who I'm sure will remain a friend for life. All in all, the perfect launch for my tour!

The view from Plymouth Wharf. (The rocky outcropping beyond the boat is not the one from the book, but there's a strong resemblance!)

Book signings appear glamorous, but your family members endure a bit of waiting.

The two Lydias, my mother-in-law and my daughter, waiting for the event to start. (I love this photo, Gene. Thank you!)

I think my book cover looks particularly pretty in mass quantities!

The organizer, Rob Kluin, Director of Marketing and Communications, is nothing if not attentive to detail.

Each table had sea glass and sand. My son's map of "Hester's Plymouth" completed the display.

Guests gathered early for nibbles and a cash bar, including a mermaid martini, which was aquamarine in color but had a sweet hint of coconut. I guzzled one down before my talk. (Mistake?)

I'm only including this to show you the podium and the mantelpiece. Otherwise, I'm embarrassed to have you see me in the same dress for two events in a row.

Signing.

I brought a guest book for purchasers to sign, as my own keepsake.

I also gave away buttons to each guest who bought a book (this is the one my mother-in-law chose, a bloody Syrenka designed by my daughter Lydia).

Heartfelt thanks to Plimoth Plantation, and especially to Rob Kluin, Susanna Grady, Jessica Rudden, Ellis Brewster, and Erin Allard for such a fun and productive event. I'm sure I'm missing someone!