It's the Lost Art book launch! When did it happen? 6.30pm on the 11th July, 2007 Where? The Emerson Chambers branch of Waterstones, Newcastle upon Tyne. Yes, for historical reasons, there are two Waterstones in the centre of Newcastle within a stone's throw of each other. It wasn't in the Grey Street branch (down the hill on Grey Street, near the Theatre Royal). It was this one which nestles between Fenwicks and the Monument Mall.   What happened? There was wine, and mingling, then I stood at the front in full knowledge that a plot had been hatched to nobble me during the questions... here I am in full flow: I read a couple of passages from the book - one about Va, and one about Benzamir, just to make things even. I then talked a little about the book's genesis - (much, much more of this at Greenbelt) - and then I was open to questions. And bless her, Peg Osterman delivered the question beloved and hated by all authors: "Where do you get your ideas from?" To which part of my answer was "I steal them from Charlie Stross." Then there was signing! Including a copy for m'friend Gail-Nina Anderson. A terrific night, and many thanks to the lovely Nina of Random House for arranging it, and the equally lovely Kristine of Waterstones for hosting.