See 3 ‘Historic’ Authors At Alpharetta Public Library Aug. 16 For Free

With a military history theme of “Warlords, War Queens, and A Gathering of Men,” A Novel Idea is kicking off its free monthly authors in conversation at a new location ­– the Alpharetta Public Library, 10 Park Plaza – Tuesday, Aug. 16, at 6 p.m.

The evening’s trio of history writers presented by ANI, in collaboration with the Atlanta Writers Club and Bookmiser, include Rona Simmons and the father-daughter writing team of Jonathan W. Jordan and Emily Anne Jordan.

Simmons will discuss her most recent novel, “A Gathering of Men,” based on a true story about shattered dreams and enduring friendship, duty, and honor in the 100th Bomb Group during World War II. And the Jordans will talk about, “The War Queens: Extraordinary Women Who Ruled the Battlefield,” which they co-authored, as well as the podcast series they’re developing to spotlight female military leaders. All three writers will sign books available for purchase that night from Bookmiser.

Simmons, who pens both historical fiction and nonfiction primarily set in the first half of the last century, is a frequent speaker on WWII and veterans stories as well as writing, blogging, editing, and marketing. “The sweep of events, from the First World War to the Great Depression, to World War II, had momentous impact on our lives,” she said, “and is a period we can still almost reach with our fingertips.”

Jon Jordan, a military historian and award-winning author of three titles, is a regular book critic for The Wall Street Journal. His military history expertise has been showcased in a range of formats, from dozens of magazine articles to documentaries and numerous live, televised, podcast, and radio appearances.

“The War Queens,” Emily Anne Jordan’s debut effort co-authored with her father, examines legendary women of war – from ancient Persia to modern-day Britain. "Giving the great women of history a voice has strengthened my own,” she said, “and I want to share that with men and women of all ages.”

To register for Tuesday’s free event, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/381414881177.

Authors interested in being considered for future ANI presentations or in volunteering to help should contact Jeremy Logan at anovelidea.authorshowcase@gmail.com.

About A Novel Idea

Begun in 2016, ANI provides a forum for authors to exhibit their works in an informal and welcoming setting. ANI meets monthly at Vintage Pizzeria in Dunwoody and the Alpharetta Public Library. For more information, visit http://anovelidea.us.

About Atlanta Writers Club

Founded in 1914, the AWC teaches the business and craft of writing, supports the local literary community and encourages more reading by the public. For more information, visit http://atlantawritersclub.org.

About Bookmiser

Since 1998, Bookmiser, an independent bookseller in Marietta, has been selling new and used books, hosting author events and facilitating store-hosted book clubs. Bookmiser will be on hand at all ANI events as its primary bookseller. For more information, visit http://bookmiser.net.