From the Booking Desk:
If you were to ask me who the three authors I would love to have as part of the Composite Sketch feature, but whom I would think would be the most elusive, those names would be Stephen King, Mary Higgins Clark, and this week’s guest. Yes, folks, I have dreamt of having Louise Penny as a guest on BOLO Books for many, many years. And today she is here – if you could see me, you would see the huge smile on my face and my fan-boy heart pounding out of my chest. I first met Louise at the Bouchercon in Baltimore (2008), where I became an instant fan of both the woman herself and her Three Pines novels. After that first meeting, I would see and chat with both Louise and her dear husband, Michael, at every Bouchercon and Malice Domestic we both attended. Conversations that were always heart-felt, honest, and funny. Louise phoned into my local book club twice to discuss her novels with our group. Every year, her star would continue to rise, but Louise never lost sight of the journey, always willing to talk with and support others in and around our tribe. I will forever cherish those moments talking with her biggest fan, Michael, when we found ourselves as seatmates at several of Louise’s panel appearances over the years – such a kind, gentle man (dare I say, Gamache embodied). I have long said that Louise’s books should be sub-titled “On How To Be a Better Person” because each of them is a roadmap to the heart and soul of humanity. Louise Penny is a gift to the crime fiction community, but more accurately, she is a gift to the world. I am honored to be able to call her Friend and I am thrilled that she is here today to answer our standard Composite Sketch Questionnaire. I predict that you will not be disappointed.
Name: Louise Penny
Location: Quebec
This person from my personal life is such an inspiration:
My husband Michael. He was and is the template for Chief Inspector Gamache. His strength, integrity, sense of humour. His willingness to be vulnerable. His kindness and his courage.
One of the people I admire most in the crime fiction community is:
Rhys Bowen, who is not only a brilliant and creative writer, but a generous, kind and supportive friend, to me and to other writers.
STALKER ALERT! If this fictional character were real, they would likely need to get a restraining order against me:
Atticus Finch – though I doubt I’d be alone in the bushes, stalking.
People are always surprised that I am a fan of this individual (singer, actor, or artist):
The rapper Coolio, especially his song “Gangsta’s Paradise.”
My personal catch phrase is (or should be):
Noli Timere
Perfect, wonderful, and I agree with all you siad above.
Thanks, Gram.
Wonderful sketch! I would never picture Louise as a rap fan.
We all contain multitudes.
Another great sketch…. of a very impressive, kind and witty lady.
Thanks Debra.
You capture her warmth and generousity wonderfully.
Thank you, Laurie
Short and to the point, but no less insightful.
My thoughts, exactly.
Lovely tribute, and how fun to get to see her answers to your questions! Fear not, indeed!
Such a great piece of advice, for us all.
What a thrilling achievement, to have Louise Penny as a Composite participant! I loved her answers, especially her liking the rapper Coolio. It shows just what a open-minded thinker she is.
Indeed. Thank you for stopping by, Kathy.
I’m not surprised that Louise accepted your invitation, she is so kind and generous. And I’m very happy for you. Good job !
Thank you Danielle.