Bouchercon, the world's most incredible convention, is only a little more than 3 months away and people are starting to get excited. I know I am. Herewith is some commonsense advice for those of you who might be attending for the first time.

Montgomery's 10 Rules for Attending Bouchercon

1) Stay at the convention hotel. This will minimize time wasted on travel.

2) Arrive the day before the con begins. The first day (Thursday) begins early and you will want to be ready.

3) Scope out the schedule to see what you don't want to miss. (If you see anything like "Michael Connelly interviews James Lee Burke" make sure you plan on attending!)

4) Pace yourself. B'con is intense and long. You won't see everything and that's okay.

5) Sleep when you can. The days are long and tiring. One hour power naps can really save you.

6) Hang out in the bar, even if you don't drink. Everyone will be in the bar and one point or another.

7) Don't be shy. People are there to meet each other and talk. If you see someone you want to meet, introduce yourself.

8) Prepare to go home with lots of books. Not only do you get freebie just for showing up, there will be tons of books to buy.

9) Please introduce yourself if you see me. I'll even let you buy me a drink! :)

10) Have the time of your life. There is no better company in the world than people who love mysteries. Make the best of it.