Last month, I had the pleasure of attending Malice Domestic, an annual convention that celebrates traditional mysteries, with a focus on Agatha Christie-style storytelling. Since its inception in 1989, this event has brought fans and authors together for a fun and friendly experience. Currently held each April in Bethesda, Maryland, it offers a mix of author panels, book signings, and engaging mystery-themed activities.
My own journey with Malice began twenty years ago, accompanied by my husband, daughter, and mother. Although I was initially nervous—surrounded by so many accomplished writers and knowing no one—I was warmly welcomed by Malice volunteers, members of Sisters in Crime (SinC) an organization dedicated to supporting female crime writers, as well as other authors and fans. I then realized I had found a place where I truly belonged which reminded me of the Cheers show theme song. Fast
forward to last month, and Malice Domestic still exudes the same heartwarming “family reunion” vibe, complete with cheerful hugs, laughter, and enthusiasm shared with old friends and new ones. Over the years, this convention has had a profound impact on my writing career. It has helped me forge connections with fellow writers, build lasting friendships, discover publishing opportunities, and hone my writing craft. Now, I take pride in welcoming newcomers, just as I was embraced all those years ago.
This year's highlights included Malice Go Round Speed Dating, New Authors Breakfast, an annual lunch with the Short Mystery Fiction Society, a SinC, Guppies gathering featuring an "Agatha signature cocktail" and appetizers, a captivating Sherlock Holmes play, the Agatha Awards banquet, an after-party, and panels like "Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys" and "Living in a Modern World: Women Take the Lead." There were fabulous interviews with the guest of honor Marcia Talley, lifetime achievement honoree Donna Andrews, and toastmaster Gigi Pandian as well as a book room overflowing with literary treasures, rounded out an unforgettable experience.
My own journey with Malice began twenty years ago, accompanied by my husband, daughter, and mother. Although I was initially nervous—surrounded by so many accomplished writers and knowing no one—I was warmly welcomed by Malice volunteers, members of Sisters in Crime (SinC) an organization dedicated to supporting female crime writers, as well as other authors and fans. I then realized I had found a place where I truly belonged which reminded me of the Cheers show theme song. Fast
forward to last month, and Malice Domestic still exudes the same heartwarming “family reunion” vibe, complete with cheerful hugs, laughter, and enthusiasm shared with old friends and new ones. Over the years, this convention has had a profound impact on my writing career. It has helped me forge connections with fellow writers, build lasting friendships, discover publishing opportunities, and hone my writing craft. Now, I take pride in welcoming newcomers, just as I was embraced all those years ago.
This year's highlights included Malice Go Round Speed Dating, New Authors Breakfast, an annual lunch with the Short Mystery Fiction Society, a SinC, Guppies gathering featuring an "Agatha signature cocktail" and appetizers, a captivating Sherlock Holmes play, the Agatha Awards banquet, an after-party, and panels like "Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys" and "Living in a Modern World: Women Take the Lead." There were fabulous interviews with the guest of honor Marcia Talley, lifetime achievement honoree Donna Andrews, and toastmaster Gigi Pandian as well as a book room overflowing with literary treasures, rounded out an unforgettable experience. 
I remember first meeting you in person at a Malice long, long ago.
ReplyDeleteI remember that too!! We’ve been friends since then as well.
Deletenice recap
ReplyDeleteThanks!! And you are always the first person I see at Malice!!
DeleteHow on earth did we NOT get our picture together, Teresa? Honestly, I was awful about taking photos this year. Shame on me. But it was great seeing your smiling face as we buzzed past each other in the hallways! Can't wait for next year!
ReplyDeleteI don’t know! We’ve always taken our picture together at Malice! But it was awesome seeing you at Malice which is a highlight for me!
DeleteThe above reply is from me!
DeleteMalice is warm and wonderful! Sorry I missed it this year. I won't make that mistake next year!
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to seeing you, Molly!
DeleteTaking a picture with you and working with you to set up meet and greets when I was guppy President // as well as going to dinners are all things I associate with Malice. Not to mention your smile.
ReplyDeleteThank you!! I remember instantly connecting with you & then taking our picture at Malice each year! I also remember trying to save tables at the hotel restaurant for a meet & greet!!
DeleteIt has become a "must do" every year. I love Malice and getting to see you once a year.
ReplyDeleteMe too! You are one of the first authors I think about when Malice is starting! !
DeleteGoing to repeat Malices feels like coming home for an extended visit.
ReplyDeleteSame here! And I love seeing you at the SMFS lunch!
DeleteI hadn't been to Malice since 2019. It was a pleasure attending again. Seeing old friends and new ones, and attending the banquet was a highlight for me. Great seeing you Teresa!
ReplyDeleteSame here!! I was really happy to learn that you were attending Malice this year!!
DeleteGreat summary of the warm, friendly annual event, Teresa! New friends and old together is the theme. We are all mystery fans!
ReplyDeleteI love the new and old friends. Each year at Malice I try to make new friends!
DeleteSounds like a great time, Teresa! Twenty years, that’s a legacy in itself. Look forward to meeting you at a future Malice
ReplyDeleteSame here, Kait!
DeleteWhat fun! And I ALWAYS love seeing your smiling face!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Teresa, for walking me through this year's Malice convention. Unfortunately, I had to bow out of the conference and the panel I was to moderate. But I have so many happy memories of past conferences, and you reaching out to me at one long ago, is right up there with my favorite memories. To have you invite me to join with you and others for dinner was so wonderful. As a result, seeing you each year at Malice is one of the highlights of the conference.
ReplyDeleteSame here. I always love seeing you at Malice and missed you this year.
DeleteI see me in two of your pictures--thank you! I was left out of the program (frowny face), but this proves I was there! It was great seeing you and so much of the regular Malice goers--plus new ones!
ReplyDeleteAlways a highlight to see you at Malice my friend!
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