Earlier this week I went to my local Waterstones here in Edinburgh to see two science fiction authors, Iain M. Banks and Peter F. Hamilton. (The photo of the authors comes from someone on Twitter. Note how Iain M. Banks managed to sit next to the display of Hamilton’s books and vice versa; they obviously weren’t paying attention when they sat down!) It was an interesting Q&A session where both authors discussed their new books and various SF issues in general. I was also able to pick up and get signed a copy of the newest Culture novel, The Hydrogen Sonata, which has just been released and which I have already started (it is one I’ve been looking forward to reading for awhile). I confess that Banks was the main attraction for me as I actually haven’t read any of Hamilton’s books, but after seeing him talk I believe I will soon rectify that, and I’ll likely pick up either his newest book or one of his older ones soon - I’ll be getting it on the Kindle though, his books are notoriously massive, something which he was asked about last night. Overall, it was an enjoyable evening, Banks is always an entertaining speaker (and I should know, given how I’m practically stalking him by seeing him every time he appears near where I’m living!) and Hamilton was also interesting and certainly I’m now more inclined to check out his writing (although he has been on my radar for awhile, this has just given me the kick I need). I had a good time and I will hopefully be going to see any other SF and Fantasy authors that appear in the future, as I do enjoy these types of events.