Lovely Lisbon
“Would you like to come to the Lisbon Book fair on the last weekend of May to promote Hotel by the Sea?”. Isn’t that just the kind of invitation a girl likes to get from her overseas publisher?! What’s not to like about a book fair in the sunshine!
Portugal is a growing market for the Julie Caplin series. So, I was only too delighted to get the chance this year to visit the city of Lisbon and meet some of readers in the country’s capital. And in case you don’t already know, Hotel by the Sea, is inspired by several wonderful stays and visits to a small boutique hotel in the Algarve, known as Quinta do Mel.
What stood out about the Lisbon Book Fair
The first thing to notice about the Lisbon Book Fair is that it is open air and completely free for the public to attend. Some 350 exhibitor stands, a mix of independent, small, large and niche retailers and publishers, straddle the Parque Eduardo VII. There are plenty of options to refuel and refresh, as well as some much-needed shade from the burning sun.
The role of influencers
My books appear to attract a younger than usual audience here, so my duties included meetings with several influencers. They soon had me partaking in some fun video clips and even speaking a little Portuguese.
The main, open to the public, interview was facilitated by the lovely Marta, herself an influencer. She made me feel very comfortable with some game style and yes/no questions which were entertaining for the audience. However, there was a small amount of consternation when I revealed that my favourite pastry was NOT the famous pastel de nata (though I do like them too!).
Meeting readers
After chatting with Marta on stage for just over half and hour, I then had the great pleasure of meeting readers and signing their books. One fan had even made me a desk ornament, featuring miniaturised models of some of my books, mounted on a wooden coaster. Such a lovely gesture. It looks beautiful in the corner of my writing desk at home and is a great reminder of why I do what I do. A huge thank you to Tania and Leya Publishing for inviting me and looking after me so well. I hope we can do it all again one day.
