"Of course I'll be there!" I replied, because I never want to miss book parties after all that hard work. Also because it's often the first time the author and I meet in person. These days, meetings usually take place via Zoom or phone. "I specifically booked my flight back for Thursday evening so I can be there on Friday."
The postcards arrived on time, but whether I'd make it on time was questionable, because then, suddenly, Storm Benjamin arrived. With almost a hundred canceled flights, I wondered if I'd even make it home that evening. It wasn't too bad: the cool Swedish pilot thought it was perfectly safe to fly with this "breeze." So the wait time went down from midnight to 9:30, and I was able to make it to the book party on time the next day.
The hall was full in the beautiful country house in Leusden. Everyone knew each other, and I sought out my familiar, dark corner. The author's mother was also alone and found me to be a partner in crime in our corner. I'd already told her I don't like being in the spotlight. She smiled, knowing what was coming.
Marcel, the book's author, began his talk about how it came about, naturally also pointing to me for the design and illustrations. Then the editor spoke, again receiving a huge round of applause for the design and illustrations. Finally, the first copies were handed out to the most special people, and so I was called forward to receive a signed book, receiving… yes, even more applause.
Imposter syndrome had lingered in the car that evening. If I ever doubted my own abilities, it was completely washed away that evening.
After the author's talk, there was some food and drinks, and again, one after another came to chat, as if I were a celebrity. At the end of the party, I had a photo taken with the author, and then, with book, map, and all the feathers in my behind, I got into the car to drive home feeling good.
Imposter syndrome is probably still waiting in the parking lot in Leusden, because that's where we left it!