Faggot

Faggot: An Appalachian Tale, Surviving Bullying
Frank E. Billingsley
Book Launch at Serendip Spa
Place Stephanie, Brussels, Belgium

by Frank E. Billingsley, PhD

As an American expat author in the capital of Europe, I launched my new novel, Faggot: An Appalachian Tale, Surviving Bullying, at Serendip Spa in Brussels Belgium. The owner of this award-winning spa, Melissa Rancourt, offered me the opportunity to be the first author to host the newly created “Wine and Books” evening. I was incredibly flattered to be the author to initiate the event. As the day of the event grew closer, I could feel myself becoming more and more nervous. What if no one wanted to come meet the author a controversial book?

On July 3rd, the event commenced, and I was a little more than nervous. But, as the familiar and unfamiliar faces started to appear, the room slowly became more crowded, and I could feel myself becoming more at ease. The event was a wonderful experience for a new author: the genuine compliments, and wishes of congratulations filled the warm summer evening’s air.

I am overall honored and humbled to have had such a wonderful turnout. Serendip was the perfect venue to discuss the book, and why the story was important for me to tell. The discussions led to great debates about words that have touched us all for the better and for worse. The venue offered a safe place to discuss those words, and how they have left a mark on our lives. And, further, it helped toward realizing how the words have molded our characters and made us the individuals we are today. Overall, what a great experience, which has led to the next book signing event on July 29th at the Book Loft of German Village, Columbus, Ohio.