Books, media & events

Celebrating Stories in Community: Highlights from the KPBS San Diego Book Festival

There is a distinct, wonderful energy that fills the air when book lovers gather in one place to celebrate the written word…and fill their tote bags with as many books as possible, as if their TBR pile wasn’t already sky-high. Over the past few months, connecting with readers face-to-face during the release of my psychological thriller, In Her Own Backyard, has been one of the most rewarding parts of this entire journey.

Among our most memorable book tour stops was participating in the truly mind-blowing KPBS San Diego Book Festival. Over 12,000 patrons came through the event that day, including Bluey and Daniel Tiger.

Ashley Hanna-Morgan in a straw hat and sunglasses, smiling and holding up her Author badge for the KPBS San Diego Book Festival, presented by the University of San Diego, under palm trees and a blue sky

A Celebration of Local Authors and Book Fans from Every Genre

Held locally on the gorgeous University of San Diego campus, the festival brought together an amazing community of readers, authors, independent booksellers, and creators. For a psychological thriller author, events like these offer a special kind of magic. We get to dive deep into what draws people to dark domestic suspense, discuss the complex motivations behind fictional characters, and talk about those unexpected plot twists that keep readers turning pages late into the night.

Meeting so many local San Diego readers who stopped by our Partners in Crime SD Booth to chat about the book, share their own favorite thriller tropes, and grab signed copies made for an unforgettable day. Events like the KPBS San Diego Book Festival remind us how vital free, in-person events and local media support are for the community.

Keep the Conversation Going

If you crossed paths with me at the festival or if you’re just diving into In Her Own Backyard now, I would love to hear your thoughts. What did you think of the twists? You can explore more about the book on the In Her Own Backyard page.

Did you attend the festival this year?

Written byAshley Hanna-MorganFounder, Healing Home Counseling

Ashley Hanna-Morgan, LCSW, PMH-CCalifornia LCSW #66494 Nevada LCSW #7719-CClient Notices

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