Ariel Lawhon Brings ‘The Pirate Queen’ to Johns Creek Literary Fair

Ariel Lawhon, whose novel “The Frozen River” found an audience among historical-fiction readers and book clubs, will bring a different woman’s story to Johns Creek next month: that of Irish sea captain Grace O’Malley.

Lawhon will headline the Johns Creek Literary Fair on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Johns Creek United Methodist Church, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road. The event runs from 3 to 7 p.m.

She will discuss “The Pirate Queen” with novelist and Friends & Fiction co-host Patti Callahan Henry in a conversation beginning at 5:30 p.m. A book signing follows at 6:30 p.m.

From historical research to a life at sea

“The Pirate Queen” draws on O’Malley’s life in 16th-century Ireland. The novel follows a woman whose ambitions at sea clash with family expectations, marriage and the expansion of English power under Elizabeth I.

Lawhon has built her career around historical fiction. Her other novels include “Code Name Hélène,” “I Was Anastasia,” “Flight of Dreams” and “The Wife, the Maid, and the Mistress.” She lives outside Nashville, Tennessee.

An afternoon for readers

The fair’s program begins at 3 p.m., followed by a four-author panel titled “Secrets, Lies & Alibis” at 3:30 p.m. A private reception for VIP ticket holders is scheduled for 4:30 p.m., ahead of the main conversation.

The VIP package includes a signed, personalized copy of “The Pirate Queen,” a reception with Lawhon and Henry, and a gift bag. Priority seating and author photos are offered to the first 100 arrivals, subject to space and time limits. Additional books by both authors will be available to buy for personalization.

Arts on the Creek is hosting the fair. Readers can check admission options and reserve through the event’s ticket page.