“ONE KILLER PROBLEM” Book Launch at the Ripped Bodice

On Friday evening at the Ripped Bodice bookstore in Culver City, many gathered for the highly anticipated launch of "One Killer Problem," a darkly humorous, queer mystery thriller perfect for fans of Kara Thomas, Kit Frick, and Only Murders in the Building.

The story follows Gianna "Gigi" Ricci, who unexpectedly finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation after stumbling upon her favorite teacher, Mr. Ford, dead in his classroom. With the help of her high school Mystery Club friends, including best friend Sean and longtime crush Mari, Gigi dives into the dangerous quest to uncover the truth.

Balancing her IBS flare-ups and unexpected romantic tension, Gigi's junior year turns into one killer problem. This novel celebrates cozy mysteries, queer found families, and the fight for loved ones.

Moderated by author Edward Underhill, good friend of Winans, he quickly delved into the inspiration behind the book, the significance of its representation, the creative process as well as teasing about Winans love for cats.

Notable authors from various genres turned up to show their support, including Jade Adia, Gretchen Schreiber, Myah Hollis, Shelly Page, Jessica Parra and Lizzy Ives creating an atmosphere of warmth and celebration that perfectly matched the themes of inclusivity and community found within the pages of "One Killer Problem."

Katherine Vaz's "Above the Salt" Book Launch at Zibby’s Bookstore

Tuesday, Zibby’s Bookstore hosted the highly anticipated launch of Katherine Vaz’s latest novel, “Above the Salt”. The event drew a captivated audience eager to hear Vaz discuss her sweeping love story set against the backdrop of Civil-War America. Moderated by Laura Warrell, the evening unfolded with a rich dialogue about the novel's themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience amidst the turbulence of historical conflict.

“Above the Salt” follows the harrowing journey of Portuguese refugees John Alves and Mary Freitas, whose budding romance is thwarted by religious violence in Madeira. Separated by circumstance and reunited years later in mid-nineteenth-century Illinois, their love story is a testament to enduring passion and the complex choices shaped by war and loyalty. Vaz’s poignant narrative brings to life their struggles and triumphs, set against the historically rich backdrop of Jacksonville's school for the deaf and the home of rising politician Abraham Lincoln.

Vaz, a Portuguese-American, shared an excerpt from the novel which briefly conveyed her characters John and Mary and the depth of their love. The event concluded with a lengthy Q&A and a book signing.