A Homecoming Between the Pages

There is a unique magic in sharing stories with the people who walk the same streets and breathe the same salt air that inspired them. Returning to Boothbay Harbor for this author talk feels less like a formal presentation and more like a conversation with old friends. As the primary setting for my books, this town is more than just a backdrop; it is a living, breathing character that has shaped every plot twist and shaped the grit of my protagonists. Standing here, surrounded by the familiar landmarks that populate my chapters, brings the creative process full circle.

In these stories, I’ve tried to capture the authentic, blue-collar spirit of our community—the quiet strength of the docks, the rhythm of the seasons, and the unbreakable bonds of the people who call this place home. During this talk at the Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, I look forward to pulling back the curtain on how our shared reality transformed into fiction. Whether you recognize a specific wharf or the cadence of a neighbor’s voice in my dialogue, this event is a celebration of the place that made these books possible and the community that continues to inspire my work.

It is always an honor to be invited back to the Boothbay Harbor Rotary Club, but this upcoming visit on June 11, 2026, carries a special weight. This will mark my third time speaking to the club, and I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude every time I walk through those doors. There’s a distinct "full circle" energy to this location because it is exactly where I gave my very first author talk. Back then, I was just stepping out from behind the computer to share the Red at Night series with the world; returning now feels like coming home to the community that gave me my start.

The Rotary Club embodies the spirit of Maine—hardworking, community-minded, and incredibly supportive of local stories. I’m looking forward to catching up with familiar faces and sharing how the journey has evolved since that first nervous presentation. Whether we’re discussing the latest developments in the Jack Finn series or the realities of being a "blue-collar" writer in the Midcoast, there is no better place to have those conversations than with the folks who have been in my corner since day one.

It is always a special experience to return to the Turner Public Library, a place that truly embodies the heart of the community. Stepping through those doors feels less like a formal engagement and more like a homecoming. As "Maine’s Blue Collar Author," there is a unique satisfaction in sharing stories with a crowd that understands the grit, humor, and hard work that define life in this corner of the state. Whether we’re discussing the latest plot twists or the realities of the writing craft, the energy in the room at Turner is always grounded, authentic, and incredibly welcoming.

Preparing for an author talk here on Saturday, May 16, 2026, brings a sense of renewed excitement to connect with both familiar faces and new readers. These sessions are more than just a lecture; they are a conversation about the characters and landscapes that make our local culture so rich. There is nothing quite like the Q&A session in a local library to spark fresh inspiration, as the questions from the Turner community often dive deep into the "how" and "why" of the storytelling process. It’s a privilege to occupy that 1:00 PM slot and contribute to the library's vibrant tradition of supporting local voices.

I am absolutely thrilled to be returning to the Baxter Memorial Library for an upcoming author talk. There is something incredibly special about sharing my work with this community, and I couldn't be more excited to dive back into the world of the Red at Night series with all of you. Whether you’ve been following the series since the first page or are just discovering it now, I’m looking forward to a wonderful evening of discussion, questions, and shared love for stories.

By popular demand, "Maine’s Blue Collar Author" Jerry Farnham returns to the Scarborough Library on April 3, 2026. After a great turnout for his first visit, Jerry is back to share more stories about the grit and heart of life in Maine. He’ll be discussing his latest work, reading new selections, and answering questions about the writing process. Whether you missed him last time or just want to hear what's new, we’d love to see you there.

Attending an author talk is a unique opportunity to peel back the curtain on the creative process, allowing you to hear the "story behind the story" directly from the source. It transforms a solitary reading experience into a shared community event, where you can engage in lively discussions, gain fresh insights into your favorite characters, and perhaps even discover the personal inspirations that sparked the book into existence.