The works of two local authors will be the featured presentations as Ashford University hosts a book reading and signing event at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, October 14 in Room A342 of St .Clare Hall. 

Ashford University Professor Dr. Gary Heath will read from “Long Dark River Casino,” his 14^th book, while Misty Evans will read from her 2008 book “Operation Sheba.” Both authors will also sign copies of their books during the event. 

In “Long Dark River Casino,” Heath probes the soul of the fictional Mississippi River community by flashing vignettes that reveal telling facets of its collective life.  Dr. Gary Klemetson, Sociology Professor at Quinlan University, goes on a vision quest on the White Earth Reservation in Minnesota, as Ralph Kilen and Kim Nevins try to establish a new casino, the Long Dark River Casino, in Quinlan.  Subsequently, there is much action in downtown Quinlan and on the Quinlan University campus, and the Manitou (spirit) of the Red Hawk brings the feathers of their activities together with insights into the human condition.  After a horrific murder on campus, and a baffling death during a Midewiwin ceremony of the Ojibway, the reader is offered a surprise ending. 

Heath has been a Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Ashford University since 1988. 

Evans, who lives in Fulton, IL, is an award-winning, multi-published author of CIA thrillers, as well as paranormal comedy.  “Operation Sheba” is the first book in her Super Agent series.  

According to a synopsis of the book on her website, “Julia Torrison – codename Sheba –is keeping secrets.  Seventeen months ago she was a CIA super agent, tracking down dangerous terrorists with her partner and lover, Conrad Flynn.  A mission was blown, literally, when a bomb Julia built exploded early and Conrad died.  Yanked back to Langley and given a new identity, she is now the Counterterrorism Center's top analyst, spending her days at CIA headquarters and her nights in the bed of her boss.  As with her heart, her former life as a secret agent has been sealed off.  Conrad Flynn – codename Solomon – has his own secrets.  For starters, he’s not dead.  Going under the deepest cover possible, he faked his death to save Julia's life.  Now he must tear her life apart and ask her to help him hunt down a traitor: her new love.” 

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The University offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa, campus.   The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable online and on-campus programs. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, director of Public Relations, at 858/513-9240 x2513.