Author Events Calendar 2023

April 29 – Murder, Mayhem and Mystery Author Panel

Celebrate National Library Week (April 23-29) with four Connecticut authors of mysteries and thrillers as they discuss how they write their books, where ideas come from, plotting twists and turns, and how they develop characters. Meet the authors, get answers to your burning questions, and purchase personalized signed copies. Panelists: Mark Dressler, Patricia Dunn, Kathy Orzech, Wendy Whitman.

  • DATE: Saturday, April 29, 2023
  • TIME: 2:00 to 3:30 PM
  • VENUE: Wallingford Public Library
  • LOCATION: 200 North Main St., Wallingford CT 06492
  • A free event. The public is enthusiastically invited.

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Past Author Events 2022

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October 1, CAPA’s Connecticut Book Festival

Connecticut Book Festival hosted by CAPA

Connecticut Authors and Publishers Association (CAPA) hosted its first annual Connecticut Book Festival at the West Hartford Meeting & Conference Center on Sat. Oct. 1st from 10am to 5pm. A terrific event with more than 40 authors of all genres and a steady stream, all day, of readers.

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Past Author Events 2021: No events due to COVID

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May 4, Podcast Scribes of the Round Table: Secrets and Lore Behind the Door.

Episode 2 Diving into the Dark: How much evil can mystery readers tolerate, and as an author, how do you decide when to rein in a dark character?

Three mystery authors exchange views on writing and the decisions about how dark is too dark. Host Lisa Natcharian from The Storyteller’s Cottage invited Steve Liskow, Chuck Radda and me, Kathryn Orzech, to a 30-minute discussion. I know exactly where I stand and I invite you listen. (Parental Advisory – Strong Language, Mature Themes) Click on the image below or the above link. Produced by the Farmington Valley Podcast Network. (Recorded April 9, 2020)

Storyteller's Cottage "Scribes" Podcast, produced by Farmington Valley Podcast Network***

February 19th. Book Club discussion of Asylum: a dark suspense saga.

Wallingford Book Club 2020

What a joy it was to discuss Asylum, a dark suspense saga, with these intelligent and lovely ladies during a private luncheon in Wallingford CT, pre-Covid19.  I’m delighted to share this happy memory of life as we knew it.

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February 15th. Agatha Christie, Queen of Crime Lecture.

Agatha Christi Lecture: Queen of Crime at Cheney Hall, Manchester CT

Murder on the Orient Express kicks off Little Theatre of Manchester’s 60th season—and we’re celebrating the Queen of Crime. Join mystery-thriller author Kathryn Orzech and author and theater historian David Garnes for a lively discussion about Agatha Christie and the nature of the mystery genre followed by a question and answer period, and book signing.

We’ll be at the historic Cheney Hall on Susan B. Anthony Day. (She spoke at Cheney Hall in January 1874.)

  • DATE: Saturday, February 15, 2020
  • TIME: 1:00 to 2:00 PM (and beyond)
  • VENUE: Little Theatre of Manchester at Cheney Hall
  • LOCATION: 177 Hartford Road, Manchester, CT 06040
  • A free event. The public is enthusiastically invited.

Historic Cheney Hall, Manchester, ConnecticutAbout Cheney Hall 

This elegant Victorian structure was built after the Civil War in 1866 for Cheney Brothers Company, renowned silk industrialists, and dedicated in 1867 by Horace Greeley. Designed by Hammatt Billings of Boston, the cultural and community center features medieval and renaissance characteristics.

According to the Manchester Historical Society, Cheney Hall served “as a hospital during the infamous flu epidemic of 1918, when the usually gay hall was filled with rows and rows of beds, dimly lighted and smelling of carbolic and ether.”

Agatha Christi, Queen of Crime Lecture

Don’t miss this fascinating discussion about Agatha Christie, Murder on the Orient Express, the mystery genre, and how real life creeps into writing.

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More Author Events in 2020

We’re also working on guest blog posts, live Facebook events, author panels, book readings and podcasts—all while writing a new suspense-mystery. Future plans and progress will be announced here as well as on Facebook’s Kathryn Orzech, Author Page.

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Past Author Events 2019

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December 5th. Holiday Shopping Bazaar at Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore.

Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore

Join me and area authors in downtown Hartford at Barnes & Noble where books, magazines, graphic novels, a giant Starbucks, walls of snacks, tons of UConn gear, and even the occasional book signing/events are all there waiting for you.

Holiday Shopping Bazaar, Dec. 5th

Meet authors of most genres, happy to tell you about their books, several are set in and around Hartford, Connecticut, and New England. You’re sure to find a perfect match for any interest—and we’ll be happy to sign and write a personal message for a unique book gift.

  • DATE: Thursday, December 5, 2019
  • TIME: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
  • VENUE: Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore 
  • LOCATION: 18 Front Street, Hartford, CT 06103
  • A free event. The public is enthusiastically invited.

Happy Holidays! white candles and poinsettas

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ASYLUM‘s screenplay adaption of the novel received a “RECOMMEND” from Extreme Screenwriting in its October 2019 Newsletter.

ASYLUM screenplay receives RECOMMEND from Extreme Screenwriting

Kathy Orzech named Featured Author & Screenwriter in Extreme Screenwriting October 2019 Newsletter.

Extreme Screenwriting is a coverage service based in Los Angeles. Script coverage provides analysis of the screenplay—what works, what doesn’t. I quickly learned it is not the same as writing a novel.

I met owner/founder Barb Doyon this past April at a weekend-long Script to Screen Summit organized by The Storyteller’s Cottage in Simsbury, Connecticut. Barb was the Keynote Speaker and presented several workshops that I attended. After meeting Barb, learning about her and from her, I knew she was the right choice to help me adapt Asylum for the screen.

It didn’t hurt that I also won a door prize of the screenwriting software Final Draft 11. So grateful.

I’m excited to be the “Featured Author & Screenwriter” in the October issue of Extreme Screenwriting’s Newsletter that goes out to film industry subscribers, and that Asylum, the screenplay, received a “Recommend.”

Extreme Screenwriting Newsletter is free and offers articles, tips and advice for writers. I find the articles helpful because much of the writing craft information also relates to novels: character, plot, setting, etc. 

Stars aligned.

Several things seemed to come together over a brief period of time. Stars aligned. Fingers crossed.

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October 21st. Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog hosts guest author Kathryn Orzech talking Asylum with its protagonist in a character interview.

Characters come alive.

Many fiction will admit at some point in the story, the fictional characters take over and surprise the author with unexpected dialog and actions. It happens to me while I’m writing.

I live with my characters long after the story ends.

Karen’s Killer Book Bench.

Today I revisit and interview Laura ‘Del’ Delito, ASYLUM’s protagonist (jewelry designer, reluctant heiress, amateur sleuth) on Karen’s Killer Book Bench.

Read the interview here: ASYLUM, featured on Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

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ALA Book Club Central’s September Picks from Sisters in Crime: Historical Fiction

ASYLUM, a dark suspense saga, among Sisters in Crime selections for Book Club Central's September Picks: Historical FictionPast and present collide when a family secret creates danger for a reluctant heiress bent on solving the mystery behind her grandmother’s past—in Asylum: a dark suspense saga.

Asylum is set in New England in 1899 and the mid-1970s, during periods of transition with the rise and fall of manufacturing, 
changing mores and folkways, and struggles for equal rights. Asylum remains a book club favorite because it prompts passionate discussion 
of social and economic issues that continue to resonate.

Book Club Central with Sisters in Crime has released its September Picks: Historical Fiction. We’re proud that Asylum: a dark suspense saga, was selected and we’re honored to be among such talent. We congratulate fellow September Picks-Historical Fiction authors: T.K. Thorne, D.M. Pirrone, John Copenhaver and P.A. De Voe.

Book Club Central is an initiative of the American Library Association. Sisters in Crime promotes the ongoing advancement, recognition and professional development of women crime writers.

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Sept. 20 and 26. The Big E. New England’s Great State Fair. See us at one of our favorite author events.

The Connecticut Building at The Big E, New England's six-state fair, Sept 2019

Best. Day. Ever. The Big E 2019.

I’m happy to announce that we will be returning to one of our favorite author events: The Big E, Eastern States Exposition, America’s only six-state fair. Check out the The Big E website for Special and State Days, Agriculture Events, Horse Shows, Competitions, Entertainment, and all the latest news.

Seventeen big days at The Big E 2019. Two chances to meet in person.

The fair runs from Friday, September 13th until Sunday the 29th. You’ll find me at CAPA‘s Bookshop in the Connecticut Building only on the 20th and 26th. If you miss me, stop by the bookshop to browse books by Connecticut authors and meet other authors. Tell them Kathy sent you.

Our Meet the Author dates are set.

  • 1st DATE: Friday Sept. 20
  • TIME: 10:30 AM till 3:30 PM
  • 2nd DATE: Thursday Sept. 26
  • TIME: 10:30 AM till 6:00 PM
  • VENUE: Connecticut Authors & Publishers (CAPA) Bookshop
    Connecticut Building, Avenue of States, The Big E
  • LOCATION: 1305 Memorial Ave. West Springfield, MA 01089
  • TICKETS: Gate tickets – see General Info at The Big E

The Big E 2019

Another great year at The Big E. Perfect weather for a New England fair and the big crowds proved it. Official attendance for our first day, Friday Sept. 20th was 89,269, and on Thursday Sept. 26th attendance was 78,017. Not everyone visited CAPA’s Bookshop or the Connecticut Building, yet authors enjoyed steady traffic. Thanks to all who stopped by, it was a pleasure to meet you.

— Kathy

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August 6th. “New England Mysteries: Inspiration. Characters. Settings.”

New England Mysteries, SinC Author Panel at Public Library of New London CTMystery Author Panel discussion, Q&A, and book signing hosted by the Public Library of New London.

Author events. A panel of three Sisters in Crime, New England Chapter, mystery-suspense-thriller authors, Penny Goetjen, Kathryn Orzech and Shari Randall, discuss writing mysteries imagined from the darkest corners of our backyard.

  • DATE: Tuesday, August 6, 2019
  • TIME: 5:30 to 6:30 PM
  • VENUE: Public Library of New London
  • LOCATION: 63 Huntington Street, New London, CT 06320
  • A free event. The public is enthusiastically invited.

Sisters in Crime

Sisters in Crime has 50+ chapters throughout the U.S. and Canada with a mission to promote the ongoing advancement, recognition and professional development of women crime writers.

The panel discussion will be followed by Q&A and book sales and signing by the authors.

What is it about Connecticut and other New England states that prompts mysteries? Which cities and towns have served as our story settings? Please join me and my Sisters in Crime for this unique discussion. Your town could be next.

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June 29. New author event: Tea with an Author—Kathryn Orzech

Come for tea in a charming English Kitchen with Kathryn Orzech, author of the modern Gothic thriller, Asylum. Sip from vintage china teacups and nibble on dainty treats while you and fellow guests ask about the book and the experience of becoming a published author. It’s a lovely way to spend a summer afternoon, and a wonderful opportunity to speak with a professional author in an intimate setting. 

Tea with an Author at The Storyteller's Cottage

  • DATE: Saturday, June 29, 2019
  • TIME: 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM
  • VENUE: The Storyteller’s Cottage
  • LOCATION: 750 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury, CT 06070
  • TICKETS: $30 includes signed copy of Asylum, plus an array of delicious cakes, scones and refreshing herbal teas. Book Now online.

Kathryn Orzech, thriller authorI was thrilled to meet the charming women who joined me to chat about Asylum, books, publishing, and varied conversation. Another lovely afternoon in the cozy English kitchen at The Storyteller’s Cottage.

Many thanks to the gang at The Storyteller’s Cottage. I feel honored to have been the first author invited to their new Tea with an Author. Check their website for daily, ongoing, exciting and fun events for all ages.

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June 12. Pop-up Book Fair at the Avon Free Public Library

DreamWatch PressJoin me for double author events: book fair and lecture. The Pop-up Book Fair features 20 local authors, part of the annual summer-long Local Author Festival hosted by the Avon Free Public Library.

  • DATE: Wednesday, June 12, 2019
  • TIME: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM (a publishing lecture begins at 7 PM)
  • VENUE: Avon Free Public Library
  • LOCATION: 281 Country Club Road, Avon, CT 06001
  • A free event. The public is enthusiastically invited.

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May 11. Murder by the Minute in Guilford, Conn.

Sisters in Crime, "Murder by the Minute" 5-minute Reads

Sisters in Crime “Murder by the Minute” at the Guilford Free Library

5-minute Reads by Sisters in Crime-New England Mystery Authors.

Sisters in Crime

Members of Sisters in Crime-New England (SinC-NE)*, introduce and read from their books or a work-in-progress at the Guilford Free Library, across from the Guilford Town Green.

  • DATE: Saturday, May 11, 2019
  • TIME: 11:00 AM to 12-ish PM
  • VENUE: Guilford Free Library
  • LOCATION: 67 Park Street, Guilford, CT 06437
  • A free event. The public is enthusiastically invited.

Also in Guilford that day, an Arts Expo, and many good restaurants and food trucks nearby. It’s a great way to meet and mingle with SinC-NE member authors and to visit historic Guilford.

*Sisters in Crime New England is a chapter of the international organization Sisters in Crime. We are authors, readers, publishers, agents, booksellers, and librarians bound by our passion for the mystery genre and our support of women who write mysteries. We welcome Sisters and Brothers in Crime from anywhere who have an interest in the New England mystery community. Visit SinC-NE.

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April 27. Windsor’s First Local Author Festival

Local Author Festival

Meet and greet local authors and fellow readers.

A full day of panel discussions and much more. Join us for one panel or all of them.

Meet and greet local authors at Windsor Public Library’s First Local Author Festival. Authors from a variety of genres share their experiences and introduce their books. Each author will have books available for purchase and signing. Authors: Eileen Albrizio, Beth Caruso, John Finn, Stanford Forrester, Penny Goetjen, Kathryn Orzech, Rebecca Podos, David Pratt, Diane Shovak, and Nikki Woolfok.

The day begins in mystery…

The Art of Writing Mystery in a Local Setting, a panel discussion.

Meet mystery-suspense-thriller authors Kathryn Orzech, Penny Goetjen and Diane Shovak in a panel discussion of The Art of Writing Mystery in a Local Setting, moderated by a mystery reader.

  • DATE: Saturday, April 27, 2019
  • TIME: 10:00 AM Welcome!
  • PROGRAM TIME: 10:30 till 11:15 AM, Mystery Panel Discussion and Q&A, followed by book signing by mystery panel authors
  • VENUE: Windsor Public Library
  • LOCATION: 323 Broad Street, Windsor, CT 06095
  • A free event. The public is enthusiastically invited.

A Full Day of Panels.

Spend the entire day at the library, or drift into the program that interests you. Something for everyone with a variety of book genre panel discussions throughout the day.

Panels begin hourly from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Join us for one panel or all of them. Bring your own lunch and eat while a cookbook author discusses his book and experiences.*

Panel Schedule:
  • 10:00 to 10:30 am: Welcome! Coffee and goodies in Meeting Room #1
  • 10:30 to 11:30 am: The Art of Writing Mystery in a Local Setting — Mystery Panel in Fiction area
  • 11:30 am to 12:30 pm: We’re All Young at Heart — Young Adult Authors Panel
    The Passion of the Bard — Poetry Panel
  • 12:30 to 1:30 pm: The Perfect Omelet — Q&A with cookbook Author John Finn
    *Bring Your Own Lunch, dessert and drinks will be provided
  • 1:30 to 2:30 pm: Let’s add some history and spunk — Fiction/Historical Fiction Panel

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April 15. Kathryn Orzech guest blogs at Killer Crafts & Crafty Killers

The blog of Anastasia Pollack, crafts editor and reluctant amateur sleuth

Crafting tips and projects; recipes from food editor and sleuthing sidekick Cloris McWerther; and decorating, travel, fashion, health, beauty, and finance tips from the rest of the American Woman editors.

Beads and chains costume jewelry

I’m excited to be a guest author talking about my first career—before author, before ad agency art director, and before graphic designer. I write about my memories at The Napier Company as a costume jewelry designer, and how those early work experiences found their way into Asylum, a dark suspense saga.

Direct link to my post at Killer Crafts & Crafty Killers blog: 

#CRAFTS WITH ANASTASIA—AUTHOR KATHRYN ORZECH’S INSPIRATION FOR HER NOVEL ASYLUM

About Asylum, a dark suspense saga

Asylum, book front cover #suspense #thriller #historicalIn 1899

While her father travels abroad, twelve-year-old Maggie Delito, daughter of the wealthy industrialist, unwittingly witnesses a shocking scandal. The next day, she’s dragged from her family’s estate and locked in an asylum to ensure her silence. Beneath the noted asylum’s polish of respectability, a wicked villainy hides in dank shadows—and Maggie fears she will be its next victim.

Seventy-five years later

Laura Delito inherits more than assets when her prestigious family’s mysterious past comes knocking. After sacrificing an independent career on the brink of success, she assumes control of Delito’s failing jewelry business while daring to expose its ghosts—a strange old woman, cryptic messages, and a rare antique key that might unlock the truth. As she pursues clues from the Northeast to North Africa, she fails to see danger looming close to home.

View the one-minute trailer of Asylum.

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March 28. All Access Authors presents Echoes of the Past

Among my favorite author events are informal discussions with readers and fellow authors. Join Kathryn Orzech, David Garnes and Margaret Dopirak at The Storyteller’s Cottage in Simsbury CT for an evening of readings and discussion as we delve into history and how our writing explores and interprets “Echoes of the Past.”

Echoes of the Past at The Storyteller's Cottage

  • DATE: Thursday, March 28, 2019
  • TIME: 7:00 to 8:30 PM
  • VENUE:  The Storyteller’s Cottage
  • LOCATION: 750 Hopmeadow St., Simsbury, CT 06070
  • COVER CHARGE: $5 includes light refreshments
About Asylum, a dark suspense saga by Kathryn Orzech

Shocking family secrets remain buried for generations in this tragic saga of a privileged, albeit ill-fated, family of a wealthy Northeast industrialist. Unforgettable characters tell an emotional story of scandal, greed, and betrayal—all the intrigues of a Gilded Age lifestyle. Set in central Connecticut in 1899 and 1974.

Take a peek behind the pages when I share what I learned from researching Connecticut’s asylum history for my fictional dark suspense saga, ASYLUM. (A book club favorite available at the Storyteller’s Booktique or where books are sold. View Asylum’s video trailer now, right here on this site.)

About Waitin’ for the Train to Come In: a Novel of World War II by David Garnes

A New England family on the home front during the tumultuous years that changed the world—and the lives of all Americans. The family’s personal as well as the larger outcomes of the war are explored: the changing role of women; adjustments of returning veterans; life in wartime factories; and the struggles of being a child and adolescent during these turbulent years.

About Missionary Kid: Born in India, Bound for America by Margaret H. Essebaggers Dopirak

Tropical illnesses, a treacherous ocean voyage, and long separations from her parents were some of the things which this daughter of missionaries survived. The missionary lifestyle and the work of her parents are described through the eyes of the author, who spent all but three years of her childhood in India.

Many thanks to all who attended Echoes of the Past. Your questions were perfect and we loved meeting you.

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March 23. Public Library of New London 4th Annual Local Authors Fest

Whether you are an author, an avid reader, a fan of local talent, or a community event connoisseur, please stop by and get to know some great local authors, hear about their backgrounds and latest releases, support the community, and own original signed copies of authors on the rise.

Authors from Southeastern Connecticut and beyond will be on hand to talk to you about their books and sign and take photos. Authors of fiction, nonfiction, Young Adult literature, Children’s literature, Romance, History and Mystery will be here. It’s a great event for all ages!

Mid-afternoon, several authors will speak to the public about their work, and their experience publishing their books. Guest speakers to be announced.

  • DATE: Saturday, March 23, 2019
  • TIME: 11 AM till 2:00 PM
  • VENUE: Public Library of New London
  • LOCATION: 63 Huntington St., New London, CT 06320
  • This event is free and open to all.

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Past Author Events 2018

Holiday Gift Guide

Find unique holiday gifts at The Storyteller’s Cottage.

December 8. Noon to 4pm. Holiday Open House: Gifts for Book Lovers!

Meet more than 15 local authors in person and purchase signed copies of their books in most genres. Make your holiday gift extra special with a personal message from the author.

Discover Storyteller’s Booktique for special unique gifts.

Stop by anytime between noon and 4:00 PM to find a wide range of books by local authors and other fun gifts for the book-lovers on your holiday list! Visit The Storyteller’s Cottage/Steampunk Library and roam from room to room where you can chat with authors and learn about their work.

  • DATE: Saturday, December 8, 2018
  • TIME: 12:00 to 4:00 PM
  • VENUE: The Storyteller’s Cottage
  • LOCATION: 750 Hopmeadow St., Simsbury, CT
  • COVER CHARGE: FREE

More book-themed gift ideas — t-shirts, desk accessories, and jewelry.

Tap into Happy Holidays with Magic Buttons — At 1:00, enjoy a timely presentation about relieving holiday stress. Learn two simple, proven self-regulation techniques to relieve stress, anxiety, cravings and other discomfort from author Mimi Stevens. Works like magic! (Age 6 – Adult)

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Premonition of Terror, international thriller by Kathryn OrzechNovember 8.  Destination: Prague, Czech Republic. A guest blog post at Killer Crafts & Crafty Killers.

We’re happy to announce that Kathryn Orzech will be the featured Guest Author at Killer Crafts & Crafty Killers, the blog of Anastasia Pollack, crafts editor and reluctant amateur sleuth. Her Thursday “novel settings” posts introduce readers to towns or cities (real or fictional) where books are set.

Discover Prague.

This blog post introduces readers to Prague, capital city of the Czech Republic, a key location setting in Premonition of Terror.

BOOK SUMMARY:

A girl-next-door protagonist with travel wanderlust stumbles on an international terrorist plot in this fast paced thriller.

Direct link: #TRAVEL–GET TO KNOW PRAGUE WITH INTERNATIONAL THRILLER AUTHOR KATHRYN ORZECH

Killer Crafts & Crafty Killers blog post about Prague travel

Thank you Lois and Anastasia for the opportunity to introduce your readers to the beautiful, historical and vibrant city of Prague, the perfect location setting for an international thriller. And thank you for the chance to revisit Prague memories in my mind as I wrote the post.

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October 27. Halloween Author Events: Premonition of Terror by Kathryn Orzech at Book Club Bookstore & More, South Windsor CT.

Book Club Bookstore, S.Windsor CT

Learn the chilling backstory as disturbing as the fictional dramatization when truth is stranger than fiction.

  • DATE: Saturday, October 27, 2018
  • TIME: 1:00 to 2:00 PM
  • VENUE: Book Club Bookstore & More
  • LOCATION: 869 Sullivan Ave. Ste. 6, South Windsor, CT 06074
  • A free event. The public is invited.

Premonition of Terror will appeal to readers interested in or curious about psychic phenomena, ghost stories, life after death. SUMMARY: A girl-next-door protagonist with travel wanderlust stumbles on an international terrorist plot. This fast paced thriller will keep you wondering, Could this really happen? Or has it happened?

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October 25. All Access Authors: Halloween Edition at The Storyteller’s Cottage.

Meet three local authors and we’ll read from our latest books in an adult story hour. We’ll be in the Jules Verne Steampunk Library (my favorite room), an intimate Victorian parlor that’s perfect for storytelling and conversation. Enjoy a light reception afterward. Halloween is October’s theme when guest authors speak of something spooky.

  • DATE: Thursday, October 25, 2018
  • TIME: 7:00 to 8:30 PM
  • VENUE: The Storyteller’s Cottage
  • LOCATION: 750 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury, CT 06070
  • COVER CHARGE: $5 includes light fare food & drink

ALL ACCESS AUTHORS: Halloween Edition Oct-25This place is so cool. Visit their gorgeous new website for more information about The Storyteller’s Cottage.

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October 6 & 7, noon till 2PM. HUBCAP Meet and Greet Book Signing with area authors at Celebrate Wallingford.

Ten  local and Northeast authors. Fiction, non-fiction, children’s. Authors greet visitors at HUBCAP Wallingford‘s storefront headquarters, in the middle of Celebrate Wallingford (formerly Taste of Wallingford).

HUBCAP Wallingford. Community. Business. Education.

HUBCAP Wallingford, An engine for Wallingford’s future labor pool!

  • DATES: Saturday & Sunday, October 6 & 7, 2018
  • TIME: Noon to 2:00 PM
  • VENUE: HUBCAP Wallingford
  • LOCATION: 128 Center St., Wallingford, CT 06492

HUBCAP is a non-profit serving Community, Business and Education. Learn more on their website: HUBCAP Wallingford.

Meet the following authors:

Yolanda Alvarez, Memoir
Barbara Gervais Ciancimino, Children’s Picture Book
Thomas Costa, Fiction/Opioid Addiction
William Gannon, Motivation
Ida Greene, Non-Fiction/War Diary
Marian Lanouette, Mystery/Thriller
Kathryn Orzech, Mystery/Thriller/Historical
Christopher Paniccia, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
James T. Powers, Local History
Jason Zandri, Contemporary Fiction

Authors love meeting readers and other writers. Please stop by to say hello.

Books signed by the authors will be available for purchase and make great personalized gifts. 

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September 2018 at The Big E, New England’s Great State Fair.

Join us at The Big E, America’s only six-state fair. Visit all New England states in one hour at Avenue of States where we’ll be greeting visitors in the Connecticut Building at the Connecticut Authors & Publishers Assoc. (CAPA) Bookshop. One of my favorite author events is meeting you at The Big E.

The Big E Connecticut Building

Connecticut Building interior, 2016

The fair runs 17 days from Sept. 14 through Sept. 30. Advance discounted tickets are on sale till Sept. 12.

  • DATE: Saturday, September 15, 2018
  • TIME: 1:30 to 5:00 PM
  • VENUE: CAPA Bookshop in The Connecticut Building, Avenue of States, The Big E
  • LOCATION: Eastern States Exhibition, Memorial Ave., West Springfield, MA 01089

More Big E dates & times:

  • DATE: Thursday, Sept. 20, 1:30-5:00 PM
  • DATE: Friday, Sept. 21, 1:30-5:00 PM
  • DATE: Wednesday, Sept. 26, 1:30-5:00 PM
  • DATE: Thursday, Sept. 27, 10 AM-5:00 PM (note time change)

For map, directions and parking see General Info/Getting There: The Big E

Another great year at The Big E comes to a close. Many thanks to CAPA for providing a bookshop in the Connecticut Building, and to readers and visitors. I’m so grateful to all who stopped by. Thank you!

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June 30, 2018. Saturday Afternoon at Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore with Sisters in Crime-New England Chapter.

Hosted by: Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore

Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford BookstoreHartford Bookstore presents mystery authors

Sisters in Crime, New England Chapter

Sisters in Crime New England authors will be signing books at an exclusive event hosted by Barnes & Noble. Meet the authors of your favorite mysteries and thrillers, chat, and stock up for summer reading. Drop in any time between noon and 4pm. Authors will be set up throughout the store. Light refreshments and an adjoining Starbucks for your convenience. Plenty of nearby parking.

Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore presents Sisters in Crime Mystery Author Book Fair

Participating authors are Sisters (and Misters) in Crime, New England Chapter members:

Thank you Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore for inviting Sisters in Crime* authors!

* Sisters in Crime is a world-wide organization of 51 chapters. Its mission is to promote the ongoing advancement, recognition and professional development of women crime writers.

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CrimeCONN-2018, Mystery Writers of AmericaJune 23, 2018 — CrimeCONN with Mystery Writers of America at The Ferguson Library, Stamford CT.

Entertainment and inspiration from deep inside the mystery world.

Mystery Writers of America organized a full day of educational, inspirational, thought-provoking, and entertaining panel discussions with esteemed guest authors, agents, publishers, and experts in related mystery fields.

Special guest speakers were S.J. Rozan, award-winning author of novels and short stories, and Neil Nyren, former Exec. VP, Associate Publisher and Editor-in-chief at Putnam Press.

Much appreciation to Chris Knopf and Charles Salzberg, Co-chairs Programming MWA, and their CrimeCONN Committee for a wonderful event.

Presented by The Friends of The Ferguson Library and Mystery Writers of America/New York Chapter

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June 12, 2018 — Author Events at Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford. This one featured Four Mystery Writers.

Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford hosts Four Mystery Authors

Authors L to R: Penny Goetjen, R.C. Goodwin, Kathryn Orzech, Mark Dressler

Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore presents Four Mystery Writers June 12 2018

Four Mystery Writers at Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore, Tues. June 12, 5:30pm

Hosted by: Barnes & Noble UConn Hartford Bookstore

Join me, Kathryn Orzech, and fellow authors Penny Goetjen, Mark Dressler, R.C. Goodwin for an evening with Connecticut mystery writers. Readings, discussions, Q&A, and book signing.

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June 9, 2018. Meet the Authors on Connecticut Open House Day at The Storyteller’s Cottage

The Storyteller's Cottage, Simsbury CT

The Storyteller’s Cottage, Simsbury CT, where authors and readers dropped in for Connecticut Open House Day. Much appreciation to the gals at the Cottage for opening your house to us, for your gracious hospitality, and for the cookies and lemonade.

  • DATE: Saturday, June 9, 2018
  • TIME: Noon to 4:00 PM
  • VENUE: The Storyteller’s Cottage
  • LOCATION: 750 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury, CT 06070

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March 24, 2018. READ Local. Local Author Fair.

  • READ Local Author FairDATE: Saturday, March 24, 2018
  • TIME: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
  • VENUE: Riverfront Community Center
  • LOCATION: 300 Welles Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033

Presented by: Welles-Turner Memorial Library

Join me and other area authors who are happy to meet and introduce our work to potential new readers from the same communities where we live, write—and write about. Signed copies of our books will be available for purchase.

I’ll be greeting readers, answering your questions, and happy to discuss my mystery-suspense-thrillers set in Connecticut and various New England locations.

Pick up your personally signed copy of Asylum, a dark suspense saga, set in 1899 and 1974 in central Connecticut with female characters who confront extraordinary situations, flirt with romance, and brush with the supernatural.

Awarded Best Mystery by IPNE Book Awards, 2016. A book club favorite. 

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Past Author Events 2017

Oct. 29, 2017 — All Authors Access, Halloween Edition, at The Storyteller’s Cottage

The Storyteller’s Cottage invites you to the Halloween Edition of All Authors Access. Sunday 3-5pm. Join me, Penny Goetjen and Beth Caruso at the new  The Storyteller’s Cottage, dedicated to Literary Events and Adventures in Simsbury, Connecticut.

Storytellers Cottage, Jules Verne Steampunk Library

Jules Verne Steampunk Library

The Halloween Edition host three award-winning authors.

Meet three award-winning Connecticut authors who’ve recently published thrilling books—perfect for the Halloween season! Settle into cozy vintage rooms and enjoy hearing each author read. There will be plenty of time for discussion with the authors between readings in this intimate setting, and each author will have books for sale afterward.

Feel the ambience.

I can easily imagine the c.1899 scene in Asylum when Carlotta and Uncle Elias devise a wicked plot to silence little Maggie. They schemed in Father’s library, which would have looked like the Jules Verne Steampunk Library at The Storyteller’s Cottage. I’ll be discussing and reading from Asylum in a restored Victorian room. I can feel the ambience.

The public is welcome to this free event. Online RSVP is appreciated.

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Author Events: Oct. 26th, 2017 — Girl’s Night Out with Women Who Write.

Authors, books, raffle, auction, food, entertainment, vendor tables. Thur, Oct 26, 5:30-8:30pm. All proceeds go to the Network of Executive Women, Milford CT Scholarship Fund. A fun event with new friends.

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Oct. 19th, 2017 6 to 8 PM — Mysteries & Moonlight Facebook Event. 

Mysteries & Moonlight, a Facebook Event

Join DreamWatch creator Kathryn Orzech, author of mysteries, suspense, and the dark side of history; mystery author Penny Goetjen; and Julie Griffin, ghost photographer-psychic-medium in a lively discussion of dreams, spirits, and otherworldly topics. Don’t be scared, log into your Facebook account and the Mysteries & Moonlight Event and join the conversation live on Facebook.

Mysteries & Moonlight Event remains on Facebook to view, click the link.

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Author Events: Sept. 21 & 26, 2017 — The Big E, Connecticut Building, CAPA Bookstore

Big E Midway 2017

We’re excited to be back to The Big E, greeting readers and signing books in the Connecticut Building.

Our books will remain on the shelves from Sept. 16 through 26, so don’t be shy, step into the booth and browse.

Look for the Connecticut Authors and Publishers Assoc. (CAPA) Bookstore next to the State Police booth. (If they turn on the flashing lights, you won’t miss us.) We’re there just two afternoons, but our author pals are on hand every day of the fair from 10am till closing. Tell them Kathy sent you.

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Author Events – our 2017 Book Blog Tour

Aug. 31st, 2017 — Reading Renee features Asylum

No matter your mood, there’s a great book to suit it.

See Renee’s 4-Star Review on Goodreads. 

Asylum: a dark suspense saga by Kathryn Orzech @KathrynObooks @HuffPost HuffPostBooks

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Aug. 14th, 2017 — Talking Asylum with Kathryn Orzech at Cheryl’s Book Nook blog.

Asylum book review and author interview at Cheryl’s Book Nook, a place to learn about the latest and upcoming books, contests, author interviews, book reviews, and all around fun.

Maggie may have been a naïve young girl when she was sent to the asylum but by the end, she was a strong woman.

It is scary to think of the abuse that people in power take advantage of the people that they are suppose to help. As I got further into the story, it picked up more speed and got darker with some twists. The location of Connecticut was the perfect backdrop for this story.

Asylum Review at Cheryl's Book Nook

Cheryl’s Book Nook Talks Asylum with Kathryn Orzech

I like the images Cheryl chose to supplement the interview, asylums, the New England countryside. I especially love the shot of Downton castle and 1970’s fashion, trust me, the ’70s never looked so good. The pictures alone are worth a quick visit.

Cheryl’s Book Nook is a beautifully organized and designed blogspot, very clean. Kudos to Cheryl. I’m grateful to have been invited. Stop by to see the pictures, review and interview, and join the discussion with your comment. Thanks for the invite, Cheryl!

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Aug. 10, 2017 — In the hot seat with fellow Sister in Crime* Lisa Haselton.

Lisa Haselton's Reviews and Interviews with mystery author Kathryn Orzech

Lisa Haselton’s Reviews and Interviews with mystery author Kathryn Orzech

Mystery, suspense, thriller author Kathryn Orzech is featured guest. Join her as Lisa probes for answers buried in a storied past of childhood dreams, present work, and future projects.

Lisa Haselton’s Reviews and Interviews

Award-winning blog for book reviews, author interviews, and anything writing-related.

*Sisters in Crime is an international, professional organization with a mission to promote the ongoing advancement, recognition and professional development of women crime writers.

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Aug. 8th, 2017 — Join the Flock at I Smell Sheep Book & Movie Blog:

I’m thrilled to be joining the flock and guest posting at I Smell Sheep, an award-winning blog for those who love stories—books, movies, comics, and much more—especially if it’s a little weird, a bit strange, and mysterious.

“Thank you, Meryl Streep. You made me a better writer.”

I Smell Sheep blog post: Thank You, Meryl Streep.

I Smell Sheep blog post: Thank You, Meryl Streep.

 

 

 

 

Meryl Streep to the rescue. Not once, but twice.

Read how one of America’s favorite actor-storytellers influenced me and my writing, and helped me learn the language of 1899.

We’re thrilled to be guest posting at I Smell Sheep, an award-winning review blog, where we’re sharing writing tips about researching and learning the language of 1899—and what Meryl Streep has to do with it.

See my guest post at I Smell Sheep, an award-winning blog Entertaining Ewe One Monster at a Time.

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Author Events: The Author’s Table at Hartford Public Library. Meet Kathryn Orzech 12-3pm, June 21, 2017

A lovely afternoon at The Author’s Table! Our sincere thanks to the Hartford Public Library and to library patrons who stopped to chat. We love meeting and talking to readers.

The Author's Table, Hartford Public Library

Author Kathryn Orzech will be greeting visitors and happy to discuss Asylum, her gripping suspense saga set in Hartford and surrounding towns.  Set in 1899 and the mid-1970s, when the rise and fall of manufacturing, changing mores and folkways, and struggles for equal rights, prompted passionate discussion of social issues that remain relevant today, making Asylum a book club favorite.

The Author’s Table, Hartford Public Library, 500 Main St., Hartford, CT 06103.

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