Authors Renee Schnebelin, Karen Radcliff, Holly McCain and Christine Agostinelli had the event of their lives March 25 as they kicked off their first joint book signing event at Sandstone Coffee House at 254 Park Ave. in Amherst.
According to the women the event brought a large turnout with each author meeting and speaking with readers about their works.
“The turnout has just been so awesome,” said Schenbelin, “It is nice to get in front of readers because you can tell them the background and discuss the book. It makes it a lot easier to do the sale.”
The ladies not only were able to connect with the general public to discuss their works, but also Bryan Jason, host of the popular Cleveland Schwill podcast. On his podcast, Jason takes the time to focus on all things Northeast Ohio from artists to entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Jason says he was first alerted to the ladies through Schenbelin and has since then planned to interview the other ladies to discuss their works and successes.
“The book signing has been a very good way for these ladies to let others explore their craft,” said Jason. “Our podcast is about to start season two and I am excited to see where these ladies go next.”
Stephanie Miller, co-owner of Sandstone Coffee House, joined in the praises for the ladies during their event.
“It is wonderful to see these authors flourishing and we are so thankful to be able to be a place for them to do that,” she said. “When we opened, we wanted to become a place where the community can come together and this event has done just that.”
In addition to their books, some of the authors like Agostinelli, also displayed their other hobbies for sale. A crafter by trade, Agostinelli used to teach string art classes pre-covid. While the classes have since ended, Agostinelli still likes to share her craft.
“I designed these string art bookmarks out of my old yarn to compliment the books,” she said.
Radcliff followed suit, bringing “Pow!” coffee mugs for readers to purchase to enjoy while reading her novel.
“It’s really just amazing how all of this has come together and it has been so fun and inviting,” said McCain. “Hearing you can go after your dream no matter what is the message that pushes me and it is worth more than hundreds of dollars.”
And her readers agree.
Crosby Marty, age 11, of Amherst says he has been inspired by the role models he has seen in these women.
“It is just really amazing to see someone from my town become a published author and it inspires me to follow my dreams too.”
The ladies are already discussing another book signing as well as looking into possibly adding more women authors to the group as time goes on. All of their books can be found on Amazon.
