"The House Is On Fire" Book Launch!

Rachel Beanland, award-winning novelist and author of Florence Adler Swims Forever has taken on the Richmond Theater Fire of 1811 in her latest, much-anticipated novel. Released on April 4th, this book is SO GOOD, and I say that as the person likely most familiar with the history of the fire. She was so conscientious about getting the history of Early Republic Richmond right and even found a person I hadn't run across: a woman medical practitioner who "ministered to the wounded" in the aftermath and was thought to be part Native American. (I'm jealous.) Beanland takes four characters, based on real people, and weaves a story from their perspectives, culminating in a finale that forces them to make impossible decisions. Seriously, so good.

And her launch party? Amazing! Hosted at Historic Richmond Foundation's Monumental Church, the event featured fiddle playing (as a nod to renowned Richmond violinist Sy Gilliat), drinks (the proceeds went to HRF), and a book signing. I had the honor of introducing her. It's been wonderful to have someone to nerd out with about Richmond history who has become a dear friend. Who else would call to gossip with me about local drama from two hundred years ago?

Hundreds of people turned out to enjoy a gorgeous night and a rare tour of Monumental. The rickety stairs and narrow passage kept the crypt off limits, but Rachel did stop to remember the lives of the victims, who are buried in a mass grave below the floorboards. Above them for the past 200 years, Richmonders have worshipped, married, had funerals, performed plays, and, as we did on the 4th, remembered their story.