Exciting Month of Mystery Authors Coming to Oakmont

Mystery Lovers Bookshop has a fresh line-up of mystery author visits this spring.

Husband and wife owners Richard Goldman and Mary Alice Gorman celebrate the authors of books in the heart-pounding genre by hosting a number of author visits each month — and March is no different.

Gorman said that they typically try to host three to four events each month, depending on the author’s availability.

“All of our events offer a fascinating experience and the opportunity to hear from writers about how and why they write what they write,” Gorman said.  “It’s a book-lover's party!”

On, Wednesday, March 9, Linda Fairstein, a popular author who consistently places on the New York Times Best Seller list, will visit the bookshop with her latest Alexandra Cooper thriller, "Silent Mercy."

“We’re honored to have her as the first stop on her national tour,” Gorman said.

Gorman explained that Fairstein’s background as a prosecutor helps to bring realism to her Alexandra Cooper series. 

“Additionally, her books feature fascinating bits of New York history ranging from the role of sandhogs in building the city’s tunnels to the origins of Gracie Mansion and the secret vaults under the New York Public Library,” she said.

Fairstein’s talk and book signing will take place at 7 p.m., at the bookshop.

On Friday, March 18, at 7 p.m., the store will host a publication party for Pittsburgh native Jeffrey Siger, as he returns home with his third novel, "Prey on Patmos."

Siger has spent the past three years in Greece, which serves as the background for his novels.

His most recent tells the story of the killing of a monk on the island that was home to St. John when he wrote the Book of Revelations, Gorman said.

Another Pittsburgh author and “bookstore favorite,” Nancy Martin, will celebrate the publication of her second book in her Pittsburgh-set series, "Sticky Fingers."

The book features "tough cookie" Roxy Abruzzo, owner of an architectural salvage firm.

Martin will visit the Mystery Lovers Bookshop on Saturday, April 2, at 2 p.m.

While there is no charge for any of the three aforementioned events, Gorman strongly suggests that readers who are interested in attending any of the author events call or e-mail to let them know that they will be attending.

“We also ask that you not bring the author’s book with you, but buy one at the event,” Gorman said.

In light of the recent announcement of some chain book stores closing, Gorman said that this should serve as a vivid reminder about the position of bookstores in today’s environment.

“Folks who like having independent bookstores in their lives need to express that feeling through their purchases. Spend your money where your house is,” she said.

For more information about these events as well as any other upcoming author events, check out the calendar of events at www.mysterylovers.com.