So apparently there were some behind-the-scenes issues with the Peoria Event last month.
MJ, whom I THOUGHT was one of the organizers, sent an email about the misunderstandings and assumptions made about what went on during the planning/execution stage, and long boring story short, she learned what happens when the lines of communication AREN'T CLEAR, texts forgotten to send, and a breakdown of communication which led to her feeling as if the others ghosted her.
MJ has a strong personality, and she has every right to vent to those of us who asked about the kerfuffle. But what occurred next was not exactly kosher.
Nathan, from whom I received emails pertaining to video interviews and box lunches, posted the following:
We are aware of the email that went out last night and some of the statements in it. While I personally know I can refute 95% of the accusations we don’t intend to turn this into public drama. We will leave it at this. While I’d like to personally thank (MJ) for the hard work she put forth to help make (this event) possible, we no longer feel we have the same vision. We wish her the best in the future and she is always welcome at any event or gathering we hold.
Given that there may be conflict in the name of said event, I feel it would be in bad taste to take that. Please look for an email invite to the new group for upcoming event info. The rsvp page for 2026 will be available shortly.
Thank you.
Then the comments began.
From Lynda:
I don't know whether to laugh at this post or be angry about it. I'm also on McKayla's email list. I read her newsletter. When the idea for this book signing was first floated--long before the Book Nook became involved--there were four people: myself, MJ, TK and another friend spitballing ideas around. Spin this how you want. I was a part of the very first conversations via FB messenger to get the ball rolling for a new author signing event. The name for this event was created in those original conversations. So, keeping the name would not only be in bad taste, it would be taking the creative capital of someone else. As to "pay to play" as mentioned in MJ's newsletter--DUDE! You posted in this very group that you refused to have sponsorships ("pay to play") and when you got pushback on that mentality, you deleted the post. Should I continue? Or do you wish to delete this post, too?
From MJ:
Wow. 95% is lies? Oh boy. The things i could have said, but didnt. Nice.
Post was then deleted; I think if MJ hadn't responded, it would still be up. As I've said before, people should NOT engage in a debate online. Ask yourself if you'd rather be RIGHT no matter the cost, or be HAPPY.
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MJ later PM'd me about why I joined the other group and "given you know what happened, WHY?"
I simply responded that a) it sounded as if it was a case of miscommunication and b) it would depend on my budget constraints if I attended next year. She left it at that.
As of last weekend, some more blanks were filled in, to the point I don't even think I'll even attend another event put on by the others. I'm sorry if this event burned a bridge for MJ; she's had signings at their store.
Just take is as a Lesson Learned, and that planning an event for the 1st time can have some hiccups.
