Book lovers flock to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor every September for the Baltimore Book Festival.

I’ve been a regular for years. Not only did I scoop up as many books as I could carry, I talked to authors. Do you know how exciting it is to speak to one of your favorites? Last year I spoke to Alice McDermott, author of Charming Billy and other wonderful works. I went to workshops–love the panels of the Maryland Romance Writers, of which I am a member. One year I even pitched my very first novel to an agent. Such a newbie, I didn’t know how it was done. But she dutifully read my first chapter and raised an eyebrow. Though it was a no-go, I knew I wasn’t licked.

It was always a deep-seated desire to return to the book festival as an author. And this year, I am! I’m bringing DIVIDED LOYALTIES and speaking as part of a panel of historical novelists, “Writing About the Past.” And such a panel of creative women it is! I’m thrilled to be joining them. I expect to learn so much from them.

Do come and say hello, hear from some awesome authors and bring your copy of my Civil War story to be signed — or buy one at the festival. (Shameless promotion here.)

See you Friday!