Friends of the Lavonia Carnegie Library to Host Meet the Authors Night

The Friends of the Lavonia Carnegie Library have an exciting evening planned for book lovers and aspiring writers alike.

On February 12th at 6:30 pm, the Friends will host a special “Meet the Author” event at the Lavonia Masonic Lodge featuring three celebrated writers, Sharon Wynns, Fran Stewart, and Vallorie Neal Wood. The free event offers attendees a unique opportunity to hear directly from these talented authors about their literary journeys and published
works.

Sharon Wynns, author of the novel “Where Do We Go from Here,” will be one of the guest speakers. Published in 2022, this is Wynns’ second novel, with a third currently in the works. Wynns is known for her thoughtful approach to writing, waiting patiently for inspiration rather than forcing it. As she says, “When it comes, I’m happy. When it doesn’t, that simply means there is something I need to know or understand about a character or situation.”  This willingness to trust the creative process has served Wynns well, leading to a body of work marked by vivid characters and meaningful themes. Beyond novels, she has published short stories in several anthologies by the Writers Guild at The Bowers House, of which she is a member.

Joining Wynns will be Fran Stewart, a prolific writer of over 25 published works spanning mysteries, memoirs, poetry, and children’s books. Some of her most popular titles include the 11-volume Biscuit McKee Mystery Series and the 3-book ScotShop Mysteries. Stewart is passionate about helping others write their memoirs, calling it “the stories of their lives.”

Attendees can look forward to hearing Stewart’s advice and wisdom from a long career as a successful author. When not writing from her home in the Georgia mountains, Stewart enjoys leading workshops at The Bowers House and throughout Georgia.

Rounding out the author trio is Vallorie Neal Wood, an author of over five novels crossing women’s fiction, mystery, and suspense genres. She also co-writes espionage thrillers with long-time writing partner Richard Welch. Her passion for writing began early, and she continues to be driven by a love of storytelling.

Before focusing on novels, Wood gained experience writing magazine features, screenplays, radio programs, and documentaries. This diverse background gives
her unique insight into the power of the written word across mediums. Attendees
can look forward to hearing about Wood’s journey as a writer.

The Meet the Author night offers something for all lovers of literature. Following brief presentations by Wynns, Stewart, and Wood, the attendees will have the opportunity to engage in an informal Q&A session with the authors.

Books by the authors will be available for purchase and signing.

John Foster, President of the Friends of the Lavonia Carnegie Library notes, “We are excited to host Sharon, Fran, and Vallorie. Their accomplishments are inspiring, but
hearing about their personal journeys firsthand promises to be incredibly
motivating for aspiring local writers.”

The event promises to provide a behind-the-scenes look at the writing process. Wynns will discuss her current works in progress along with her creative approach. Stewart will share insights from her decades of experience as a successful and prolific storyteller. Wood will discuss her research techniques and how she lives within her stories while the characters move about in her imagination.

Foster promises the evening will help attendees “appreciate the dedication and passion required to craft great stories while bringing literature alive.”

Wynns, Stewart, and Wood have close ties to the region. Wynns is a member of the Writers Guild at The Bowers House, who are co-hosting the event.

Stewart frequently leads workshops there as well. Wood lives and has family in
Royston.

Foster explains that hosting regional authors gives attendees a sense of
pride and connection: “There is so much talent in our community. Events like
this offer inspiration and show what can be achieved.”

The Friends of the Lavonia Carnegie Library strive to promote a love of books and writing. Meet the Author Night promises to be entertaining while providing motivation and encouragement.

Foster summed up the hopes for the event: “We want people to leave feeling inspired to pursue their own creative dreams.”

The Meet the Author night provides the perfect mid-winter tonic of inspiration and joy through the shared love of books. Mark your calendar for February 12th and come with a curious mind.