Latest Events in Manasquan(June Updated)

BookTowne in Manasquan, New Jersey, is excited to announce an upcoming event featuring Christopher Shaw Myers, the author of the new book "Robert Shaw." The event will take place on July 11, 2025, at BookTowne's location on 171 Main Street. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the author and learn more about his latest work. Be sure to mark your calendars for this special literary event.

A ticket includes a signed copy of the book. ABOUT THE BOOK In this beautiful story of connection and self-reflection, a missing dog in Georgia sets Amy Webb on an adventure away from her tumultuous marriage and lack-luster personal life and towards a journey of self-discovery and joy. Amy Webb is a chef. Or rather, she was a chef. Somewhere along the way she also became a wife and a stepmother and an emergency contact, and the part of her that was a chef disappeared entirely– along with her sense of self. Which is why she is currently in the republic of Georgia, on a mission to find a lost dog named Angel, and, more importantly, the life’s purpose she once took for granted. For months, Amy has escaped by watching Youtube videos of Angel walking the children of Tbilisi to school. When Angel goes missing, Amy volunteers to go find him. The fact that her husband may be having (another) affair and her stepson is away at college probably has something to do with it. Who is Amy, after all, if she’s not taking care of other people? But to her surprise, Angel proves elusive, and while she does make friends with a number of stray dogs, what she finds in Tblisi is entirely human. Is she happy in her marriage? What happened to her career? Why doesn’t she ever cook anymore, even just for herself? Helping her on this journey of self-discovery is a rebellious teenager, a mysterious and attractive Russian, and several post-Soviet grandmothers. And, of course, the rich food and culture and complicated politics of Georgia itself. After a lifetime of looking away from her own needs and appetites, Amy is forced to confront what she really wants and how to finally find herself – And a dog. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lauren Grodstein is the author of the Read with Jenna pick We Must Not Think of Ourselves,The Washington Post Book of the Year The Explanation for Everything, and the New York Times-bestselling, A Friend of the Family, among other works. Her stories, essays, and articles have appeared in various literary magazines and anthologies, and have been translated into French, German, Chinese, and Italian, among other languages. Her work has also appeared in Elle,The New York Times, Refinery29, Salon.com, Barrelhouse, Post Road, and The Washington Post. Her fiction has been recognized by the New York Public Library and Columbia University. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, children, and two large dogs, and is a professor of English at Rutgers University-Camden, where she directs the MFA program in creative writing. Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

A ticket includes a signed copy of the book. ABOUT THE BOOK A captivating new historical novel from Madeline Martin, set in Victorian London about a forbidden book club, dangerous secrets and the women who dare to break free. You are cordially invited to the Secret Book Society… London, 1885: Trapped by oppressive marriages and societal expectations, three women receive a mysterious invitation to an afternoon tea at the home of the reclusive Lady Duxbury. Beneath the genteel facade of the gathering lies a secret book club—a sanctuary where they can discover freedom, sisterhood and the courage to rewrite their stories. Eleanor Clarke, a devoted mother suffocating under the tyranny of her husband. Rose Wharton, a transplanted American dollar princess struggling to fit the mold of an aristocratic wife. Lavinia Cavendish, an artistic young woman haunted by a dangerous family secret. All are drawn to the enigmatic Lady Duxbury, a thrice-widowed countess whose husbands’ untimely deaths have sparked whispers of murder. As the women form deep, heartwarming friendships, they uncover secrets about their marriages, their pasts and the risks they face. Their courage is their only weapon in the oppressive world that has kept them silent, but when secrets are deadly, one misstep could cost them everything. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Madeline Martin is a New York Times, USA TODAY, and international bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance with books that have been translated into over twenty different languages. Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

Join the Manasquan Woman's Club as they host a special event featuring bestselling author Jean Kwok at BookTowne. This in-person gathering includes a catered lunch and a hardcover copy of Kwok's latest novel, "The Leftover Woman," as well as an engaging book talk, a chance to get your book signed, and a meet and greet with the author. "The Leftover Woman" is a captivating and suspenseful mystery that delves into themes of motherhood and belonging. Kwok's masterful storytelling will leave you unable to put this book down as it explores the journey of Jasmine Yang, a woman who arrives in New York City from a rural Chinese village seeking her daughter, who was taken from her at birth due to China's controversial One Child Policy. At the same time, we follow the story of Rebecca Whitney, a successful publishing executive whose seemingly perfect life begins to unravel when an industry scandal threatens everything she holds dear. The paths of these two women collide in a shocking and emotional tale of identity, family, and the lengths a mother will go to be reunited with her child. Jean Kwok is a renowned author, with her previous works, "Girl in Translation" and "Mambo in Chinatown," being international bestsellers. Her writing has been celebrated worldwide and is taught in universities and schools across the globe. Kwok's talent for storytelling shines through in "The Leftover Woman," delivering a powerful narrative that explores themes of love, belonging, and the meaning of family. Don't miss this opportunity to experience an unforgettable event with Jean Kwok at the Woman's Club of Manasquan. Book your ticket now for $60 and immerse yourself in an evening of literature, discussion, and connection.

Join the Manasquan Woman's Club for a Literary Luncheon with bestselling author Jean Kwok. This exciting in-person event will be held at the Woman's Club of Manasquan in Manasquan, NJ, on October 10, 2023. The event includes a catered lunch, a hardcover copy of Kwok's latest book, "The Leftover Woman," a book talk, a signing, and a meet and greet with the author. "The Leftover Woman" is a captivating mystery that explores the themes of motherhood and belonging. It follows Jasmine Yang, a woman who arrives in New York City from her rural Chinese village in search of her daughter, who was taken from her due to China's One Child Policy. Rebecca Whitney, a successful publishing executive, is also navigating the challenges of motherhood and family. The two women's lives collide in a suspenseful and poignant story that delves into the complexities of identity and love. Jean Kwok is a New York Times bestselling author known for her previous novels, "Girl in Translation" and "Mambo in Chinatown." Her work has been published in multiple countries and is widely studied in educational institutions worldwide. Kwok's talent for storytelling shines through in her evocative prose and ability to tackle profound themes. Don't miss this opportunity to experience her powerful work firsthand. Tickets for the Literary Luncheon are available for $60.

Join the Literary Luncheon featuring Patrice McDonough, author of Murder by Lamplight, in an engaging conversation with Laura Spence Ash, author of Beyond That, The Sea. This unique event is brought to you by BookTowne and the Woman's Club of Manasquan. Immerse yourself in a delightful combination of a book talk, lunch, and book signing. Each ticket not only includes a delicious lunch but also a personally signed copy of the book. In this gripping novel set in November 1866, a gruesome murder in London's East End captures the attention of onlookers. Amidst the crowd, a composed and efficient young woman stands out. Little do the spectators know that she is a skilled medical doctor called to examine the corpse. Inspector Richard Tennant initially doubts her abilities, but Dr. Julia Lewis is no stranger to condescension. Julia's journey to become a doctor took her to America, as British universities barred women from studying medicine. Now back in London, she faces a devastating cholera epidemic and a chilling murder case that becomes deeply personal. As the investigation unfolds, the killer taunts the police with letters and clues, leading them through music halls, workhouses, and sewers. Dr. Lewis and Inspector Tennant must decipher the murderer's dark motivations and obsessions. However, the stakes are raised when Julia finds herself targeted by the killer. This calculated opponent is determined to carry out a terrifying plan to its conclusion. Don't miss the opportunity to engage with Patrice McDonough, a former educator with a passion for history. As a member of esteemed writing societies, including the Historical Writers of America, the Mystery Writers of America, and the Historical Novel Society, McDonough brings her expertise to life in her debut novel, Murder by Lamplight.

Attend the event "BookTowne Welcomes Natalie Friscia Pancetti, Author of This Too" at BookTowne in Manasquan on March 16 at 5:30PM. Natalie Friscia Pancetti will engage in a discussion about her book, offering readers a fresh outlook on life. In "This Too," she shares inspirational insights that encourage readers to embrace and act upon. Through her collection of "life-isms," she provides a source of wisdom for reflection and guidance, aiding individuals in finding inner peace regardless of life's challenges. The book covers various themes such as family, emotions, life lessons, and faith, making it a valuable resource for individuals of all ages. By sharing her experiences and wisdom, Natalie Friscia Pancetti equips readers with practical lessons that can be applied to different facets of their lives. Admission to the event is free, offering attendees a chance to gain valuable insights and perspectives from the author herself.

BookTowne and the Fresh Ink Book Club are pleased to invite visitors to a discussion with Amy Jo Burns, the New Jersey author of Mercury, at BookTowne in Manasquan on March 19th at 6:30 PM. Mercury explores the lives of a family of roofers in Western Pennsylvania, uncovering a long-held secret that threatens to disrupt their stability. Amy Jo Burns, drawing from her own family's background, delves into themes of family, loyalty, and the struggles faced by women in traditional roles. The novel has received high praise for its authenticity and emotional depth, offering a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of family relationships. Amy Jo Burns, also the author of Cinderland and Shiner, has garnered critical acclaim for her writing across various platforms. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into Mercury and discover the captivating storytelling of Amy Jo Burns. Tickets for the event are priced at $32 and can be purchased for an evening filled with literary insights and engaging discussion.

Discover the opportunity to meet Dave Noll, the renowned TV show creator behind Chopped and accomplished author, at BookTowne in Manasquan. Dave will present his latest work, The Visionary In Charge, unveiling the secrets to realizing one's biggest aspirations. Delve into practical tips shared by Dave on how to take the reins of your life as a visionary. Learn the seven essential rules for achieving your goals, decipher the mathematical equation for success, and shift your perspective on thinking ambitiously. Uncover the pivotal "X point" in your journey towards triumph. Dave Noll, an Emmy Award-winning creative Mastermind and Television Powerhouse, has shaped over 60 series, including the beloved Chopped franchise. With a wealth of experience, Dave imparts his unique insights on creativity and positivity to captivated audiences worldwide. Don't miss this enlightening event at BookTowne on April 27, 2024, where Dave Noll will share his wisdom and ignite inspiration. Admission is free at BookTowne, located at 171 Main Street, Manasquan, NJ 08736.

BookTowne is excited to welcome Bob Drury, the New York Times bestselling author of Throne of Grace, to discuss his latest book at BookTowne in Manasquan on Saturday, May 11 at 4PM. In Throne of Grace, Drury, along with co-author Tom Clavin, sheds light on the often overlooked contributions of Jedediah Smith, an early American explorer and mountain man. Smith's expeditions into the uncharted territories of the Rocky Mountains played a significant role in shaping modern America. The book connects Drury and Clavin's previous works, Blood and Treasure and The Heart of Everything That Is, to explore America's expansion and its complex relationship with the Indigenous populations. Smith's journey westward paralleled the concept of Manifest Destiny, leading to clashes between Native tribes, white explorers, and rugged mountain men. Although Smith's significance has been overshadowed by other explorers, his achievements were groundbreaking. He was the first American to traverse South Pass, a crucial gateway to the West that opened the way for the Oregon Trail. He also explored the western edge of the continent, crossed the Great Salt Lake, ventured through the Mojave Desert, and traveled up the West Coast. Drury and Clavin present Smith's story as an essential part of American history, shedding light on the untold tales of the early American frontier. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from the renowned authors themselves as they bring Smith's remarkable journey to life. Tickets for the event are priced at $35, and the venue is located at 171 Main Street, Manasquan, NJ 08736.

BookTowne is pleased to invite guests to the Algonquin Arts Theatre in Manasquan on May 15, 2024, at 6 PM for an engaging discussion with Harlan Coben, the acclaimed author of Think Twice. The event includes a ticket that provides attendees with a signed copy of the thrilling novel. Harlan Coben will be joined by Robyn Gigl, an accomplished author known for works such as By Way of Sorrow and Survivor's Guilt. Think Twice delves into a gripping mystery surrounding the supposed death of basketball coach Greg Downing, who has now emerged as a suspect in a double homicide. As Myron Bolitar and his friend Win delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover a web of secrets and lies that threaten to upend their world. Harlan Coben, a New York Times bestseller with a global following, has crafted yet another riveting tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to delve into the heart of Coben's latest masterpiece alongside these two distinguished authors at this highly anticipated event.

BookTowne is excited to host author Catherine Newman for a discussion on her latest book, Sandwich, at BookTowne in Manasquan on Tuesday, June 25 at 6 PM. Newman's novel, SANDWICH, beautifully captures the blend of humor and emotion found in everyday life, earning praise from acclaimed author Ann Patchett as "joy in book form." Through the lens of a three-generation family gathering on Cape Cod, Newman explores the challenges of midlife, the pleasures of parenting adult children, and the evolving love for aging parents, all while keeping secrets buried in the past. With a backdrop of beach vacations, nostalgia, and the complexities of relationships, SANDWICH promises to deliver a mix of laughter and poignant moments. Fans of Laurie Colwin will appreciate Newman's ability to intertwine happiness and heartbreak, with a touch of culinary passion. Don't miss this special event with Catherine Newman at BookTowne in Manasquan. Ticket Price: $30.

The Genesis Health Clubs - The Atlantic Club Manasquan opened in 1977 on a 44-acre campus complete with state of the art fitness center, yoga and pilates studios, racquetball courts, 13 court tennis complex, Parisi Speed and Conditioning School, Turf Center, Atlantis Preparatory School, and The Milagro Day Spa and Salon. All ticket sales will go back to the 90 plus animals of Graceful Farm Sanctuary! This covers feed,shelter,hay,veterinary care and of course their favorite snacks! This session includes a 45 minute gentle flow yoga class with a certified Yoga Instructor from Pure Toms River Yoga.After class you will be able to take pictures with the goats and cuddle them. We do not offer refunds unless we cancel. We kindly ask for you to bring your own yoga mat. We look forward to seeing you! "Graceful Farm Sanctuary got its name from our beautiful dwarf Nigerian goat Grace, and although she only blessed us with six months of her incredible and happy life, she smiled through all the pain she endured and gave us a new sense of what the meaning of life truly is. Her sudden passing left us feeling empty, confused and heartbroken, but also led us in the direction of rescuing animals that could not help themselves or were being sent to slaughter. We currently have 92 animals at our sanctuary, and although every single day is a blessing to have helped each and every one of them, it's extremely challenging and a lot of hard work. But at the end of every single day, the reward is far greater than we ever imagined!" Information Source: Graceful Farm Sanctuary | eventbrite

ABOUT THE BOOK When you are constantly holding your breath every time the phone rings, when you are always waiting for the other shoe to drop, when you are continually walking on eggshells… you can’t help but crave for a lighter time, and want for the fairytale. In Searching for Slippers, Stacy Ross tells her story as a parent of a child with Borderline Personality Disorder. With a raw honesty rarely found in parents of children with mental illness, Stacy takes readers on a roller coaster ride of emotions and experiences on her journey to acceptance. Through it all, she has her own coming of age discovering that a life unplanned for was exactly what she needed to emerge a lighter yet stronger version of herself. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Stacy Ross is an author, speaker, and mental health advocate. In 2020, Stacy stepped away from her marketing consulting business and began to write full-time. Today, Stacy uses her writing and platform to give voice to parents and caregivers of children with mental illness. Stacy and her husband, Howard, raised their three children (Emily, Leo, and Fin) in Fair Haven, New Jersey where they still live today. Stacy holds a BS from Cornell University, an MBA from the University of Rochester, and is a certified Yoga Instructor. Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

A ticket includes a signed copy of the book. ABOUT THE BOOK Virginia Evans’s charming and subtly powerful debut, THE CORRESPONDENT (Crown; April 29, 2025), paints the portrait of a life through a brilliant epistolary format. Evans takes readers on a moving journey into the life of Sybil Van Antwerp, a retired law clerk whose world is centered around the letters she exchanges with friends, family, and a few famous figures—Joan Didion and Ann Patchett among them—as she tries to make sense of the world around her. Sybil is a mother and grandmother, divorced, retired from a distinguished career in law yet still remembered for her sharp legal mind, an avid gardener, and a writer of letters. Most mornings, around half past ten, Sybil sits down to write—to her brother, to her best friend, to the president of the university who refuses to let her audit a class she desperately wants to take, to Joan Didion and Larry McMurtry to share her thoughts on their latest books, and to one person to whom she writes often yet never sends the letters. At seventy-three, Sybil has used her letters to make sense of the world and her place in it. But when letters from someone in her past arrive, they force her to confront one of the most painful periods of her life and to recognize that the letter she has been writing for years must finally be read. This journey compels Sybil to examine forgiveness—both of others and of herself—as she seeks to try and move forward. As Sybil writes, THE CORRESPONDENT invites readers into her reflections on aging, memory, and the balance between isolation and connection. It is a striking exploration of the hubris of youth and the wisdom of old age, the power of literature and human connection, and the small yet profound acts that shape a life fully lived. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Virginia Evans is from the northeastern United States. She attended James Madison University for her bachelor’s in English literature, as well as Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, for her master’s of philosophy in creative writing. She lives in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, with her husband, two children, and her Red Labrador, Brigid. Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

BookTowne Presents Friends & Fiction LIVE to celebrate the launch of The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel. Meet all four Friends & Fiction host authors—Kristin Harmel, Kristy Woodson Harvey, Patti Callahan Henry & Mary Kay Andrews. Your ticket includes a signed copy of The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel, lively keynote presentation delivered by all four Friends & Fiction authors, and Q&A session—plus sips & nibbles, meet & greet, book signings, and photo opportunity on the courtyard after the show! Additional books by all four authors will be available for purchase at the event. DOORS OPEN AT 6:000PM *** SHOW BEGINS AT 7:00PM ABOUT THE STOLEN LIFE OF COLETTE MARCEAU Colette Marceau has been stealing jewels for nearly as long as she can remember, following the centuries-old code of honor instilled in her by her mother, Annabel: take only from the cruel and unkind, and give to those in need. Never was their family tradition more important than seven decades earlier, during the Second World War, when Annabel and Colette worked side by side in Paris to fund the French Resistance. But one night in 1942, it all went wrong. Annabel was arrested by the Germans, and Colette’s four-year-old sister, Liliane, disappeared in the chaos of the raid, along with an exquisite diamond bracelet sewn into the hem of her nightgown for safekeeping. Soon after, Annabel was executed, and Liliane’s body was found floating in the Seine—but the bracelet was nowhere to be found. Seventy years later, Colette—who has “redistributed” $30 million in jewels over the decades to fund many worthy organizations—has done her best to put her tragic past behind her, but her life begins to unravel when the long-missing bracelet suddenly turns up in a museum exhibit in Boston. If Colette can discover where it has been all this time—and who owns it now—she may finally learn the truth about what happened to her sister. But she isn’t the only one for whom the bracelet holds answers, and when someone from her childhood lays claim to the diamonds, she’s forced to confront the ghosts of her past as never before. Against all odds, there may still be a chance to bring a murderer to justice—but first, Colette will have to summon the courage to open her own battered heart. ABOUT KRISTEN HARMEL Kristin Harmel is the New York Times bestselling, USA Todaybestselling, and #1 international bestselling author of The Forest of Vanishing Stars, The Book of Lost Names, The Winemaker’s Wife, and a dozen other novels that have been translated into more than 30 languages and are sold all over the world. Many of her novels have been optioned for film and television. The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau is coming this June.Kristin has been writing professionally since the age of 16, when she began her career as a sportswriter, covering Major League Baseball and NHL hockey for a local magazine in Tampa Bay, Florida. In addition to a long magazine writing career, primarily writing and reporting for PEOPLEmagazine (as well as articles published in numerous other magazines, including American Baby, Men’s Health, Woman’s Day, and more), Kristin was also a frequent contributor to the national television morning show The Daily Buzz. Her first novel was published in February 2006. Kristin was born just outside Boston, Massachusetts and spent her childhood there, as well as in Worthington, Ohio, and St. Petersburg, Florida. After graduating with a degree in journalism (with a minor in Spanish) from the University of Florida, she spent time living in Paris and Los Angeles and now lives in Orlando, with her husband and son. A breast cancer survivor, she is also the co-founder and co-host of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction. Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

Discover the art of playing with various placements tailored to clients' lifestyles and preferences to create stunning looks with vibrant hair colors at the upcoming event, "Creative Colors with Creative Placements." Hosted by Miranda Rodriguez, an independent educator and owner of Bespoke Hair Studio, this event will take place at Bee Kind Studio in Manasquan on April 15, 2024. The class will feature a detailed look and learn session, showcasing a full head vivid look with a focus on color blocking techniques rather than a solid color approach. Participants will delve into basic color theory, placement strategies, styling tips, and view captivating after photos. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions and engage in the learning experience. Snacks and beverages will be available to enhance the educational session. Secure your spot for this exclusive event at a ticket price of $175.

BookTowne is excited to host authors Jenn Garcia Mawson and Victoria Karnatski, along with furry friends from Rescue Ridge, at their venue located at 171 Main Street, Manasquan, NJ 08736 on April 20, 2024. Join us for an enlightening discussion about their latest children's books focused on themes of adoption. Jenn Garcia Mawson's "Carter Gets Adopted" follows the heartwarming journey of Carter, a young protagonist who finds comfort and courage with the help of his mentor, Steven the Pig, and farmer owner, Rose. Victoria Karnatski's "Rescuing Reeva" tells the touching story of Reeva, who discovers happiness and purpose through caring for rescued animals. This event is a wonderful opportunity to engage with uplifting narratives of family, friendship, and love, while also meeting some adorable adoptable furry companions from Rescue Ridge. Admission is free, so mark your calendars and don't miss this special event at BookTowne in Manasquan.

BookTowne is thrilled to welcome Victor Lodato, the esteemed author of "Honey," to our venue located at 171 Main Street, Manasquan, NJ on May 2, 2024. This arts event promises to be a captivating evening filled with insightful discussions and engaging interactions with the talented writer. The ticket price for this exclusive experience is set at $35. Attendees can look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of Lodato's literary masterpiece and the inspiration behind his compelling storytelling. BookTowne invites all literature enthusiasts and avid readers to join us for an unforgettable opportunity to connect with one of the most celebrated authors of our time. Don't miss out on this chance to immerse yourself in the world of "Honey" and explore the creative mind of Victor Lodato. Mark your calendars and secure your tickets for a memorable night of literary exploration.

BookTowne is thrilled to announce the upcoming literary luncheon with renowned author Liv Constantine, who will be discussing her latest book, "The Next Mrs. Parrish." This highly anticipated event will take place on June 27, 2024, at the prestigious Woman's Club of Manasquan in Manasquan, NJ. Liv Constantine, the pen name of bestselling sisters Lynne Constantine and Valerie Constantine, has captivated readers worldwide with their gripping novels, having sold over one and a half million copies and translated into 29 languages. Their debut novel, "The Last Mrs. Parrish," was a Reese's Book Club selection and is soon to be adapted for Netflix. In their latest release, "The Next Mrs. Parrish," readers will dive back into the lives of Daphne, Amber, and Jackson Parrish. Amber, now a prominent socialite, faces challenges as her husband, Jackson, is released from prison, putting an end to her comfortable lifestyle. Meanwhile, Daphne, who had sworn never to return to Bishops Harbor, agrees to allow supervised visits between her daughters and Jackson. As a ghost from Amber's past seeks revenge, the three find themselves unlikely allies in a game of deceit and betrayal. This literary luncheon is a unique opportunity to engage with Liv Constantine and gain insights into their thrilling storytelling. Each ticket includes a signed copy of "The Next Mrs. Parrish" and a delicious lunch. Don't miss out on this exceptional event—secure your ticket now for $65 and be prepared to be enthralled by Liv Constantine's enthralling narrative.

BookTowne is thrilled to welcome Beatriz Williams, the esteemed author of the captivating novel "Husbands & Lovers," on July 1, 2024, at 5:00 PM. This exclusive event at BookTowne in Manasquan, will offer attendees the opportunity to meet the New York Times and internationally bestselling author in person as she signs copies of her latest book. Tickets for this event are priced at $32 and will include a copy of "Husbands & Lovers," ensuring you have the perfect beach read for the upcoming 4th of July holiday weekend. The novel intertwines the stories of two women across different eras, united by a family heirloom, as they navigate secrets and lost loves. From New England in 2022 to Cairo in 1951, Williams takes readers on a poignant journey of heartbreak and redemption. Beatriz Williams, a highly acclaimed author with nineteen novels to her name, brings a deeply human narrative to life with morally complex issues of privilege, class, and the female experience. Don't miss this unforgettable opportunity to delve into the world of "Husbands & Lovers" at BookTowne in Manasquan.

A ticket includes a signed copy of the book. ABOUT THE BOOK A trailblazing female medical examiner in 1867 London and a skeptical Scotland Yard detective investigate a string of art world murders in this dark, atmospheric, historically rich mystery for readers of Andrea Penrose and Deanna Raynourn. London, 1867: Among the genteel young ladies of London society, painting is a perfectly acceptable pastime—but a woman who dares to pursue art as a profession is another prospect, indeed. Dr. Julia Lewis, familiar with the disrespect afforded women in untraditional careers, is hardly surprised when Scotland Yard shows little interest in complaints made by her friend, Mary Allingham, about a break-in at her art studio. Mary is just one of many “lady painters” being targeted by vandals. Painters’ sitters are vanishing, too—women viewed by some as dispensable outcasts. Inspector Richard Tennant, however, takes the attacks seriously, suspecting they’re linked to the poison-pen letters received by additional members of the Allingham family. For Julia, the issue is complicated by Tennant’s previous relationship with Mary’s sister-in-law, Louisa, and by her own surprising reaction to that entanglement. But when someone close to them commits suicide and a young woman turns up dead, the case can no longer be so easily ignored by ‘respectable’ society. Layer after layer, Julia and Tennant scrape away the facts of the case like paint from a canvas. What emerges is a somber picture of vice, depravity, and deception stretching from London’s East End to the Far East—with a killer at its center, determined to get away with one last, grisly murder . . . ABOUT THE AUTHOR Patrice McDonough is a former educator who taught history for more than three decades. A member of the Historical Writers of America, the Mystery Writers of America, and the Historical Novel Society, she splits her time between New Jersey and the Florida Gulf Coast. Please visit her online at PatriceMcDonough1789.com. Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

A ticket includes a signed copy of the book. ABOUT THE BOOK A heart-wrenching mystery about sisters, lovers, and a dinner party gone wrong. Twenty-five years ago, a young girl left home to walk to school. Her younger sister soon followed. But one of them arrived, and one of them didn’t. Her sister’s disappearance has defined Willa’s life. Everyone thinks her sister is dead, but Willa knows she isn’t. Because there are some things that only sisters know about each other—and some bonds only sisters can break. Willa sees fragments of her sister everywhere—the way that woman on the train turns her head, the gait of that woman in Paris. If there’s the slightest resemblance, Willa drops everything, and everyone, and tries to see if it is her. When Willa is invited to a dinner party thrown by her first love, she has no reason to expect it will be anything other than an ordinary evening. Both of them have moved on, ancient history. But nothing about Willa’s life has been ordinary since the day her sister disappeared, and that’s not about to change tonight. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sarah Easter Collins is a writer and artist. A mother to a wonderful son, she has worked extensively in the field of education, teaching art in the UK, Botswana, Thai­land, and Malawi. Sarah now lives on Exmoor with her husband and dogs, where she loves running and wild swimming. She is a graduate of the Curtis Brown Creative novel writing course. Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

A ticket includes a signed copy of the book. ABOUT THE BOOK A heart-wrenching mystery about sisters, lovers, and a dinner party gone wrong. Twenty-five years ago, a young girl left home to walk to school. Her younger sister soon followed. But one of them arrived, and one of them didn’t. Her sister’s disappearance has defined Willa’s life. Everyone thinks her sister is dead, but Willa knows she isn’t. Because there are some things that only sisters know about each other—and some bonds only sisters can break. Willa sees fragments of her sister everywhere—the way that woman on the train turns her head, the gait of that woman in Paris. If there’s the slightest resemblance, Willa drops everything, and everyone, and tries to see if it is her. When Willa is invited to a dinner party thrown by her first love, she has no reason to expect it will be anything other than an ordinary evening. Both of them have moved on, ancient history. But nothing about Willa’s life has been ordinary since the day her sister disappeared, and that’s not about to change tonight. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sarah Easter Collins is a writer and artist. A mother to a wonderful son, she has worked extensively in the field of education, teaching art in the UK, Botswana, Thai­land, and Malawi. Sarah now lives on Exmoor with her husband and dogs, where she loves running and wild swimming. She is a graduate of the Curtis Brown Creative novel writing course. Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

BookTowne Presents Friends & Fiction LIVE to celebrate the launch of The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel. Meet all four Friends & Fiction host authors—Kristin Harmel, Kristy Woodson Harvey, Patti Callahan Henry & Mary Kay Andrews . Your ticket includes a signed copy of The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel, lively keynote presentation delivered by all four Friends & Fiction authors, and Q&A session—plus sips & nibbles, meet & greet, book signings, and photo opportunity on the courtyard after the show! Additional books by all four authors will be available for purchase at the event. DOORS OPEN AT 6:000PM *** SHOW BEGINS AT 7:00PM ABOUT THE STOLEN LIFE OF COLETTE MARCEAU Colette Marceau has been stealing jewels for nearly as long as she can remember, following the centuries-old code of honor instilled in her by her mother, Annabel: take only from the cruel and unkind, and give to those in need. Never was their family tradition more important than seven decades earlier, during the Second World War, when Annabel and Colette worked side by side in Paris to fund the French Resistance. But one night in 1942, it all went wrong. Annabel was arrested by the Germans, and Colette’s four-year-old sister, Liliane, disappeared in the chaos of the raid, along with an exquisite diamond bracelet sewn into the hem of her nightgown for safekeeping. Soon after, Annabel was executed, and Liliane’s body was found floating in the Seine—but the bracelet was nowhere to be found. Seventy years later, Colette—who has “redistributed” $30 million in jewels over the decades to fund many worthy organizations—has done her best to put her tragic past behind her, but her life begins to unravel when the long-missing bracelet suddenly turns up in a museum exhibit in Boston. If Colette can discover where it has been all this time—and who owns it now—she may finally learn the truth about what happened to her sister. But she isn’t the only one for whom the bracelet holds answers, and when someone from her childhood lays claim to the diamonds, she’s forced to confront the ghosts of her past as never before. Against all odds, there may still be a chance to bring a murderer to justice—but first, Colette will have to summon the courage to open her own battered heart. ABOUT KRISTEN HARMEL Kristin Harmel is the New York Times bestselling, USA Today bestselling, and #1 international bestselling author of The Forest of Vanishing Stars , The Book of Lost Names, The Winemaker’s Wife, and a dozen other novels that have been translated into more than 30 languages and are sold all over the world. Many of her novels have been optioned for film and television. The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau is coming this June. Kristin has been writing professionally since the age of 16, when she began her career as a sportswriter, covering Major League Baseball and NHL hockey for a local magazine in Tampa Bay, Florida. In addition to a long magazine writing career, primarily writing and reporting for PEOPLE magazine (as well as articles published in numerous other magazines, including American Baby, Men’s Health , Woman’s Day , and more), Kristin was also a frequent contributor to the national television morning show The Daily Buzz . Her first novel was published in February 2006. Kristin was born just outside Boston, Massachusetts and spent her childhood there, as well as in Worthington, Ohio, and St. Petersburg, Florida. After graduating with a degree in journalism (with a minor in Spanish) from the University of Florida, she spent time living in Paris and Los Angeles and now lives in Orlando, with her husband and son. A breast cancer survivor, she is also the co-founder and co-host of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction . Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

BookTowne Presents Friends & Fiction LIVE to celebrate the launch of The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel. Meet all four Friends & Fiction host authors—Kristin Harmel, Kristy Woodson Harvey, Patti Callahan Henry & Mary Kay Andrews . Your ticket includes a signed copy of The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel, lively keynote presentation delivered by all four Friends & Fiction authors, and Q&A session—plus sips & nibbles, meet & greet, book signings, and photo opportunity on the courtyard after the show! Additional books by all four authors will be available for purchase at the event. DOORS OPEN AT 6:000PM *** SHOW BEGINS AT 7:00PM ABOUT THE STOLEN LIFE OF COLETTE MARCEAU Colette Marceau has been stealing jewels for nearly as long as she can remember, following the centuries-old code of honor instilled in her by her mother, Annabel: take only from the cruel and unkind, and give to those in need. Never was their family tradition more important than seven decades earlier, during the Second World War, when Annabel and Colette worked side by side in Paris to fund the French Resistance. But one night in 1942, it all went wrong. Annabel was arrested by the Germans, and Colette’s four-year-old sister, Liliane, disappeared in the chaos of the raid, along with an exquisite diamond bracelet sewn into the hem of her nightgown for safekeeping. Soon after, Annabel was executed, and Liliane’s body was found floating in the Seine—but the bracelet was nowhere to be found. Seventy years later, Colette—who has “redistributed” $30 million in jewels over the decades to fund many worthy organizations—has done her best to put her tragic past behind her, but her life begins to unravel when the long-missing bracelet suddenly turns up in a museum exhibit in Boston. If Colette can discover where it has been all this time—and who owns it now—she may finally learn the truth about what happened to her sister. But she isn’t the only one for whom the bracelet holds answers, and when someone from her childhood lays claim to the diamonds, she’s forced to confront the ghosts of her past as never before. Against all odds, there may still be a chance to bring a murderer to justice—but first, Colette will have to summon the courage to open her own battered heart. ABOUT KRISTEN HARMEL Kristin Harmel is the New York Times bestselling, USA Today bestselling, and #1 international bestselling author of The Forest of Vanishing Stars , The Book of Lost Names, The Winemaker’s Wife, and a dozen other novels that have been translated into more than 30 languages and are sold all over the world. Many of her novels have been optioned for film and television. The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau is coming this June. Kristin has been writing professionally since the age of 16, when she began her career as a sportswriter, covering Major League Baseball and NHL hockey for a local magazine in Tampa Bay, Florida. In addition to a long magazine writing career, primarily writing and reporting for PEOPLE magazine (as well as articles published in numerous other magazines, including American Baby, Men’s Health , Woman’s Day , and more), Kristin was also a frequent contributor to the national television morning show The Daily Buzz . Her first novel was published in February 2006. Kristin was born just outside Boston, Massachusetts and spent her childhood there, as well as in Worthington, Ohio, and St. Petersburg, Florida. After graduating with a degree in journalism (with a minor in Spanish) from the University of Florida, she spent time living in Paris and Los Angeles and now lives in Orlando, with her husband and son. A breast cancer survivor, she is also the co-founder and co-host of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction . Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

A ticket will include a signed copy of the book. ABOUT THE BOOK June views the world differently than others. A keen horticulturist, she can name every flower species in the alphabet (J begins with the Jamaica Plum). Yet, when it comes to people and relationships, she's still cultivating an understanding. After her mother's unexpected death, June must vacate her home. But when the social worker urges her to move into a flat with no garden—clearly, that won’t work. With no other options, she embarks on her first solo trip in search of a father she’s only seen in a single old photograph. When June unexpectedly shows up at her father’s door, he panics and turns her away, unwilling to jeopardize his idyllic life and new family. On her way out, June spies an unruly backyard and with nowhere else to go, quietly moves into her father’s yellow garden shed. Once again, she can spend her days surrounded by her beloved flowers. But when her father’s 12-year-old son—her half-brother—discovers June, she must choose between being seen for the first time or running away yet again. A beautiful and heartwarming portrait of a young woman who looks at the world differently, June in the Garden encourages others to do the same. Because thinking unconventionally is not a flaw, it’s often the key to appreciating the wonder and bloom that surrounds us. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Eleanor Wilde is the pen name of an acclaimed YA author. Wilde holds a master's of education and worked for several years in the U.S. public education system. She has a love for books and gardening and spends her weekends up hills or foraging for wildflowers in the woods. June in the Garden is her debut adult novel. Information Source: BookTowne | eventbrite

Viewing of 10 or more beautiful private gardens in Manasquan. These local gardens have been lovingly created and tended by their home owners. Local artists and musicians will be featured at various gardens. Tickets can be purchased prior to June 26th, 2025 at $30 from Eventbrite or in May by cash or check at several local stores in Manasquan: Booktowne, Manasquan Lighting or Weston Gallery. Day of tour tickets are $35 and can be purchased in the Parking Lot at St. Dennis Parish Center at 119 Virginia Avenue, Manasquan. A table will be set up there. Again cash or check. The parking lot is south of St. Denis Church. Tickets sold through Eventbrite are also picked up at 119 Virginia Avenue, Manasquan. The actual ticket will have a map with the locations of the local gardens. Several restaurants in Manasquan are offering a 20% discount on lunch on the day of the tour for patrons with a ticket. The restaurants are : Paramount Diner, Peach Pit Cafe, Town Grill, Squan Tavern and The Committed Pig. In the event of rain, the decision on whether to reschedule the event to Friday June 27th will be announced on the Manasquan Sea Lavender Garden Club Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ManasquanSeaLavenderGardenClub/) or you can call phone number 732 528 2198 to listen to a message about whether or not it has been rescheduled. Information Source: Sea Lavender Garden Club of Manasquan | eventbrite