Today we celebrate the book birthday of That Old Black Magic by Mary Jane Clark. She's been lovely enough to share some of her thoughts with us:
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Dear Librarians,
It’s been a lifelong love affair…my relationship with the Public Library.
If not for the Public Library, there is absolutely no doubt in my mind, I wouldn’t be writing books today. When I was a kid, there were no Barnes and Nobles and, even if there had been, my parents didn’t necessarily have the extra cash lying around to buy the latest Nancy Drew or Trixie Belden mystery. My sister and I carefully selected our books from the shelves of the Public Library.
When we were little, we went to story hour, where the elderly librarian would read to us, even, as happened during one snowstorm, when we were the only ones there. As we grew older, we would stop most days as we walked home after school to see if there was anything neat on the “NEW BOOKS” rack. We studied there and researched there and sometimes just enjoyed the quiet there. We treasured our library cards. We learned to love reading.
Many years have passed, and, now, I still have to pinch myself sometimes and feel truly honored when I see one of my books on a library shelf or hear there is a waiting list for the newest title. As I’ve traveled around the country or perused e-mails, I’ve learned how many, many readers have been able to get my books at the public library. That exposure has helped immeasurably in building a fan base. I am beyond grateful for that. It also gives me immense pleasure to know that people, even if they can’t necessarily afford to purchase my books, can still enjoy them.
You hold in your hands That Old Black Magic, the latest installment in the Piper Donovan/Wedding Cake mystery series. This time, Piper goes to New Orleans to work at a famous French Quarter pastry shop. She’s immediately enthralled by the charming sights, sounds and smells of the old city. But the magical mood quickly turns sinister when one of the local business owners is found dead, with the vicious crime pointing to the work of one of the hoodoo spirits. Soon, past secrets are exposed and Piper is caught in a web of intrigue and suspense.
Booklist has given That Old Black Magic an early thumbs up. “Clark is skilled at providing motive and opportunity to many characters and keeping the suspense building to the end.”
I have high hopes for That Old Black Magic. I hope you will enjoy it and spread the word to your library patrons.
With much gratitude,
Mary Jane Clark
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Thank you, Mary Jane!
– Annie