Johnston County resident Carol L. Dougherty is doing a book signing and an informal Q & A, for her recently published "Smiling at Grief: A Sapphic Romance," at The Story Keeper Bookstore, Friday, July 26 from 4-6 pm. It will be followed immediately by a reading from her book at the Triangle East Writers Open Mic at the bookstore, from 6-8 pm. Other writers will read or in some cases offer music or storytelling at the Open Mic. All are welcome to both events. The book answers the question: can an opening night encounter ignite an unexpected love? Kate sparks an instant connection with Pen, fueled by mutual attraction and a shared passion for the theatre. Through fiery, intense rehearsal rooms and double edged-banter, Pen is forced to confront challenges of the past and present and redefine her art to try desperately to win the woman she loves. In the world of stage lights and theatre magic, Pen’s story unfolds in her own voice, inviting readers into the unguarded intimacy of her life onstage and off. A low to medium-low heat/fade-to-black sapphic romance. All are invited to meet the author, buy a signed copy of the book, and join an informal question and answer session. Immediately following the book signing/Q & A is the monthly Triangle East Writers Open Mic night, in which all can participate with a reading, a story, a song, or come simply to listen and enjoy. Carol L. Dougherty (she/her – aka Doc) has worked in professional theatre with the Berkshire Theater Festival, the Three Rivers Shakespeare Festival and City Theatre Company. Her other publications include: "The Santiago Inheritance," "How Full of Briers: The Organizational Structure of the Non-Profit Theatre Corporation" and "100 Ways to Improve Your Writing," by Gary Provost (Carol was Co-Editor of the updated 2019 edition with Gail Provost Stockwell).