Mystery Writers in Orlando

Recently my son Jesse and I were fortunate to be able to attend Sleuthfest in Orlando Florida. It was a writer’s conference sponsored by the Florida Chapter of Mystery Writers of America. There were about 300 writers and mystery fans in attendance.

There were so many programs offered that four were often presented at the same time. Choices, choices! It was the perfect place to learn from successful writers and to “rub elbows” with agents and publishers.

One of the highlights was the Saturday night banquet at The House of Blues at Downtown Disney. It was only a mile or so from our hotel so we decided to walk. 

There was a costume contest and Jesse and I went as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. Jesse was surprised when I asked him to be Sherlock; he thought I’d want to be the famous detective. I explained that Dr. Watson was the one who wrote the journals of Sherlock’s experiences, so it would be natural for me to portray the writer.

Heather Graham’s band, The Rock-bottom Remainders played the music for the party with author Don Bruns guest-performing. Don does a great job with Jimmy Buffett tunes.

Jesse and I kept the costumes on for the walk back to the hotel and were surprised by six groups of people wanting to have their pictures taken with us. I guess even at Disney you just don’t see Sherlock Holmes every day.