Breaking out the bubbly

Before late November, I had probably had champagne. I can’t swear to it, but there’s a high likelihood. However, I’d never had champagne while someone was toasting to me or something I had done.

That has now happened twice.

First, I was given a champagne toast by a friend the night before my first-ever book signing at Burrowing Owl Bookstore on Nov. 24. Then my family toasted to the official release of my debut novel, Deep Background, in paperback on Dec. 6.

The signing at Burrowing Owl was my defacto release party (I went out for lunch afterward with family and friends), so I wasn’t expecting to have much to celebrate on Dec. 6.

Then I got an exciting email that morning from the International Thriller Writers. I was accepted as a member of this prestigious group just before my signing in late November. After being accepted, I submitted my novel to be mentioned in their monthly magazine, The Big Thrill. In that magazine, they choose 10 novels per month for a bigger feature, which includes an interview by one of their contributing editors.

As you’ve no doubt guessed, Deep Background was chosen to be featured. I have done the interview, and it will be in the February issue.

That might’ve been enough to toast. Then I got another email from ITW.

The International Thriller Writers is one of the largest, most prestigious groups for authors who write thrillers. Their annual convention, ThrillerFest, boasts some of the biggest names in publishing. Last year, George R.R. Martin (A Song of Ice and Fire, the inspiration for HBO’s series Game of Thrones) was among the featured authors. Harlan Coben, who’s won just about every literary award there is, and legend John Sandford will be among those participating in this year’s ThrillerFest in New York City.

Guess who else will be participating?

That second ITW email informed me that I’d been accepted into the group’s Debut Authors Program. Among the perks (including expanded exposure for me and my novel) is what they call the Debut Authors Breakfast, which takes place the morning of Saturday, July 13, at the Grand Hyatt New York on the isle of Manhattan. This means I will be on a stage in a large banquet hall with the other ITW authors whose debut work was released between their summer 2018 convention and early July. I will get to introduce myself and my novel to those in attendance, including big-time authors and industry professionals. After that, I will get to sign copies of my book for those same folks. (I signed a copy of Deep Background for bestseller Jodi Thomas at Burrowing Owl last month. I wonder what other names I can add to that list this summer.)

That was news was definitely worthy of a champagne toast.

Win a free signed copy of my book (or signed bookmarks)

Starting in January, I will be sending out a weekly newsletter by email. It will include links to my blogs, reviews of Deep Background, and an exclusive look at where I’ll be and what I’m working on now. This will include small excerpts, etc.

In an effort to build up my email list, I’m going to give away one signed copy of my novel and five signed bookmarks. All you have to do to enter is sign up for my newsletter between now (Dec. 10) and Sunday, Dec. 16. There’s a popup that allows you to do that on this site. You can also go to the contact section of this site and just send me an email with “newsletter” in the subject. You can also get a hold of me via my social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram), or, if you know me personally, send me a text. Whatever is easiest for you, just make sure I get your email address and I’ll add it to my list.

I will choose the winners at random on Dec. 17, so that I can get the book and bookmarks sent out in time for the winners to use as Christmas gifts.

My next signing event

I will have a booth at the upcoming Christmas at the Dome arts and crafts fair in Borger, Texas, this Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 15 and 16. I will be selling and signing copies of Deep Background. If you’ve already gotten a paperback copy and just want me to sign that one, come on out and I’d be happy to do that! I will also be creating an event on Facebook if you use those to help remind you.

The reviews are in, and Deep Background is a hit!

Those who keep up with me on social media know that I’ve had several editorial reviews come in recently from professional book critics. They’ve all been positive, with some really great, quotable lines. Below are some of the best, with links to the full reviews:

“Rick Treon’s first completed work of fiction is an impressive, realistic dark thriller with an unnerving conclusion that wisely leaves a pathway open for a follow-up novel. … Deep Background is entertaining and eye-opening reading, and Rick Treon is a new novelist to watch.”

– Lone Star Literary Life

“An intelligent, textured and taut thriller … First-time novelist Rick Treon hits a home run”

– Best Thrillers

“… Treon crafts his story with several interesting twists that lure in the reader and demand their attention. … kept me hanging on till the very end. … I guarantee, if you are into suspense, this will be the book for you.”

– Authors Reading

Deep Background is available for purchase in paperback and ebook at Amazon, Barnes & Noble. Paperback copies are also available online via my publisher, Black Rose Writing, or in person at Burrowing Owl Books in Canyon.