Local authors to meet public at 'Books and Brews' event in Windham

By Ed Pierce

F. Scott Fitzgerald once said that authors don't write because they want to say something, instead they write because they have something to say. At a gathering in Windham on Sunday afternoon, nine different local authors will have plenty to say during the first-ever “Books and Brews” event at Bob's Seafood.

Between 2 and 4 p.m. Sunday. Aug. 23, eight Maine authors and one New England-based author who write books in a variety of genres will appear on the upper and lower patios of Bob’s Seafood to meet the public with copies of their books available for purchase and autographs.

The event was created by Windham author JC Ward, who says she was inspired to have a space where local authors can showcase their work, connect with readers, and introduce their books to a new audience.

“Being an independent author is challenging. Writing the book is only part of the journey,” Ward said. “Marketing and finding readers can be just as difficult, if not more so. Through social media, particularly Instagram, I have connected with many talented authors who are working hard to get their books into the hands of readers, and I was surprised to discover how many of them are local.”

According to Ward, “Books and Brews” participants will have the opportunity to meet local authors, purchase books, and have them personally signed. They can also relax, enjoy a beverage and some seafood, and spend time discovering the incredible talent right here in the community.

Authors who will be attending the “Books and Brews” event include:

E.E. Lawson (Women's fiction)

Thomasina Bloom (Fantasy/Science Fiction)

S.E. Martin (Sports Romance)

Kristine Delano (Domestic Thrillers)

Stacy Elizabeth (Romance)

KC Fetch (Urban Fantasy)

JC Ward (Thriller and a Cozy Mystery)

Jerry Farnham (Suspense/Mystery)

Jon Shannon, a 101.9 WPOR radio morning show host and an author of Urban Fantasy books will also attend the event.

Ward says that this is a great opportunity for local authors to meet new readers and for community members to discover new local authors in a fun environment. 

For every book purchased during “Books and Brews” participants earn a raffle ticket for a drawing for a $25 Bob's Seafood gift card. The drawing will be held at 4:15 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23.

“My hope is that every author who attends walks away with new connections, new readers, and a stronger sense of community among local writers,” Ward said. “There is something special about discovering a local author whose books you love and being able to support their work. At the same time, authors love discovering local readers who connect with their stories.”

She said the event is free for the public to attend, and local authors will be happy to sign their books for participants. Bob’s Seafood is at 901 Roosevelt Trail in Windham.

“Ultimately, I hope the event creates lasting relationships between authors and readers and reminds everyone that there is an incredible community of talent right here in our own backyard,” Ward said.

For more details about “Books and Brews,” send an email to [email protected] <