I love Tracy Deonn!

It's truly wild how quickly a misunderstanding can spiral into a full-blown 'controversy' online, especially when it involves public figures like our beloved authors. The recent buzz around Tracy Deonn not smiling at a fan really got me thinking, and it highlights a bigger issue in our book community. As a reader, I totally get the excitement of meeting a BESTSELLING AUTHOR whose words have touched your soul. You build up this image in your head, especially if you're engrossed in a fantastic series like LEGENDBORN or eagerly awaiting OATHBOUND. You imagine a perfect, magical moment where everything aligns. But here's the thing: authors are, first and foremost, people. They have good days and bad days, they might be introverted, shy, tired from a long book tour, or simply overwhelmed by a crowd. I’ve heard so many stories, both good and bad, about author interactions. And honestly, sometimes the expectation we place on them is immense. Is it fair to 'cancel' someone because they didn't meet an unspoken, idealized version of themselves in a fleeting moment? I don't think so. That quick interaction is just a tiny snapshot, not a reflection of their character or their incredible work. Imagine being on constant display, expected to perform and smile on cue, even if you’re feeling under the weather or just had a tough day. It sounds exhausting, right? This incident with TRACY DEONN really underscores the pressure authors face today. Social media can be a double-edged sword; it allows us to connect with creators, but it also creates a platform for instant judgment and, unfortunately, 'cancel culture.' Instead of focusing on the amazing worlds she creates (like the vibrant world of LEGENDBORN), we get caught up in a small, potentially misinterpreted human moment. My personal take? Let's extend a little more grace and understanding. When we meet authors, let's appreciate them for their craft and the stories they bring to life. A genuine 'thank you' for their work goes a much longer way than expecting them to always put on a show. And for anyone feeling disappointed, maybe consider writing a letter or an email instead, where you can truly express your appreciation without the pressure of an in-person encounter. It's about respecting boundaries and remembering that behind every great book is a person, just like us.