West Coast Con: Take 2
(10/25/2010)

October 23rd - 24th marked the second year in a row for Newfoundland's West Coast Con (NWCC), and Engen Books returned with more titles, more authors and more announcments!

"The convention was really great." said Infinity author Ellen Curtis. "It's really like a vacation for us. Out of all the cons on our circuit, this one's the most relaxed. We had fun."

In addition to just having a good time, Curtis and co-author Matthew LeDrew took part in several seminars, panels and groups on writing, publishing and science-fiction in general.

"I like doing regular panels as well, not just writing-related ones." said LeDrew. "I took part in Buffy related panels both here and at Polaris this year, and they're always fun. I loved that show, and just about anything Whedon puts out. It's a great way to meet people with similar interests and, sometimes, get them interested in what we do."

LeDrew's sixth novel Ignorance is Bliss launched at NWCC, bringing Womb fans old and new in to check out the newest book in the Black Womb series: and fans were surprised with the changes.

"It's out first book with our new distributer, Lightning Source." explained LeDrew. "They're a little larger, getting away from the pocket paperback size we've ben using. They look wonderful."

Physical changes weren't the only difference, as fan's got a chance to delve deeper into the mindset of Xander Drew. Tired of the beatings he's been taking over the course of five books, Xander takes some much-needed time off... but crime in Coral Beach doesn't go on vacation, and things quickly get out of hand.

"This is different for us in that the conflict isn't internal, it's external." commented LeDrew. "It's a good piece and I'm really happy with how it turned out. I hope people enjoy it."

Also at the con were new Engen authors Melanie Collins, Steve Lake and Darren Hann with their book of short stories Sci-Fi from the Rock.

To watch the trailer for Ignorance is Bliss on YouTube, click here, compliments of Justin Foley Entertainment.