Hello, book nerds!

Last night, the queen, Leigh Bardugo herself, graced my city with a visit on her book tour for her new release, The Familiar. And my friends and I had a blast.

Over 300 people turned up for the event — and if you’ve never been in a room full of so many bookworms who are on the wavelength as you, I highly recommend it. Everyone was friendly and chatty, smiling at each other and striking up conversations. I even made a new friend, solidified by mutual following on Instagram (the official marker of friendship, naturally).

The event was held in a beautiful church, complete with stained glass windows. It was an interesting venue choice for an author of Jewish background with a book literally titled Hell Bent, but I can’t imagine it any other way. The aesthetics were a vibe.

Promptly at the official start time, Bardugo entered the grand room to much fanfare. With help from her cane, she strode gracefully to her seat on stage, where she immediately endeared herself to the audience with a joke about the nerves of releasing a new book, and the comfort of arriving to a room full of likeminded readers and fans — like having your own cult. “Welcome, you’ll all be given your new names soon,” she joked.

From the moment she picked up the microphone, she owned the room.

Bardugo had a bowl of Q&A prompts from the crowd at the ready, and over the course of the hour, she managed to work her way through each and every one. From questions about her writing experiences and inspiration to her favorite books and interesting history tidbits, we got the full range of topics. We learned about the two sides of her family: one primarily from Russia and Lithuania, and the other originating from Spain who were expelled in 1492 during the Inquisition. Bardugo also discussed how The Familiar was written mostly at night, and when asked if she’d ever seen a ghost, said, “I have a theory that ghosts never appear to goths. We’re just trying too hard.”

She also teased a few upcoming projects, including a horror novella, book three (and finale) in the Ninth House trilogy, and potentially a new idea for a magical realism fantasy taking place in 19th century Los Angeles featuring poisoners. Exciting news all around.

Following the speaking event was the much anticipated book signing portion of the evening. Despite meeting over 300 people in a single evening (and with a two signature limit per person, that essentially means over 600 books signed), she was friendly toward everyone and never lost her smile.

It was truly a great experience, and I look forward to everything Bardugo has to come. If you ever have a chance to meet her or watch her speak, definitely do so!