Meet Beverly Cooper Pierce, author of historical fiction set in coastal Massachusetts: The Rowans. Beverly will read a short excerpt then will be interviewed by Adult Services Librarian, Maddy Willwerth about her process, the importance of writing groups (Beverly is a regular attendee at the library's weekly, virtual Shut Up and Write group) and herbal remedies. Tea will be available, so bring your travel mugs.

"Pierce's family has populated the area for generations, including some marvelously recognizable names: Haskell, Peirce (spelling was rickety back then), and her 7th great-grandparents, John and Elizabeth Proctor. Her novel (2025, Winter Island Press, Salem, Mass.) brings the history of the area to life: Puritanical mindsets living side-by-side with powerful women in often challenging conditions and...love. Always love.

The novel is gorgeously written, meticulously researched, and juicy, a mix of drama, romance, social commentary, herbalism, and the sort of magical sensibilities that have been, by some, equated with witchcraft. Pierce's descriptions of many familiar places around the North Shore transport the reader back in time. It's an engaging and delicious read." -Publisher Winter Island Press

About the Book: In Massachusetts, in the years between witchcraft delusion and Revolution, a curious, insightful Tamsin Bennett comes of age apprenticed to her Grandmother Cat, child of a healer-mystic accused of witchery.

When Tamsin is stricken one morning with unearthly visions of her Papa, that day inexplicably he is found dead. Now keeping a tavern in a harbor town, she hides in plain sight to carry on the healing work of her foremothers, protects her family from danger, and chooses her lovers with particular care.

"The Rowans" will be available for sale by cash, check or Venmo during the event.