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NYT Bestselling Author Fiona Davis Wows at "Friends of the Bronxville Public Library" Event: See Photos

By Monica Malpass, Friends of the Bronxville Public Library Board Member

April 16, 2025: It was a packed auditorium at the Bronxville Library on April 8 for New York Times best-selling author Fiona Davis' encore visit to the Village. The historical novelist and dynamo didn't disappoint as she discussed her latest tome, The Stolen Queen, in the Yeager Auditorium.

Irena Choi Stern, former board member of Friends of the Bronxville Public Library ("Friends") led the discussion. Irena is a former classmate of Fiona's at the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism and her conversation with Fiona provided insights into how Fiona became a writer and her creative process. 

"Fiona's warmth and willingness to share details of her process made the discussion feel like the audience was talking to their best friend," said Amy Brown, Friends Board President.

"I love hearing how she comes upon her ideas and all the research she did at the Met and even in Egypt for The Stolen Queen; her energy is contagious," said Victoria Thiessen, Friends Board member.

The novel is set in two time frames: Egypt in 1936 and New York City in 1978 at the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met), where fascinating personality types work together to solve a mystery. The novel seems to have it all:  a rare female pharaoh, a tragic death, the glamorous Met Gala,  legendary Vogue magazine editor Diana Vreeland, and more. The chase is on to find the thieves who stole a priceless artifact.

"The Stolen Queen illustrates the hope, resilience, and love that women possess even in the face of terrible loss," Kathy Rodriguez, an audience member, said.

The novel certainly resonated with the audience, and book sales afterward were the proof. Every copy sold out, and Fiona graciously autographed them! After all, she has a special place in her heart for Bronxville.

"I've loved Bronxville ever since I laid eyes on it. The library's patrons are so warm and welcoming and always ask the best questions, and I eagerly look forward to returning with each new book," said Davis.

The free author talk was sponsored by the Friends of the Bronxville Public Library. Stay tuned for more dynamic author talks to come!

See photos from the event below!

Adult Education Directory

Bronxville Adult School

About the Bronxville Adult School & Contacts

The Bronxville Adult School is a not-for-profit organization incorporated in 1957 and chartered by the New York State Board of Regents. The School "offers all adults of Bronxville and surrounding communities the opportunity for personal growth through life enhancing skills and provides cultural, intellectual and recreational stimulation at a nominal cost."

The Bronxville Adult School
(914) 793-4435
email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.bronxvilleadultschool.org

Bronxville Public Library

Bronxville Public Library

The Bronxville Public Library traces its origins back to 1875, when it was a small lending library housed in a room attached to the “Bronxville Model School.” The Library was officially chartered in 1906 and moved into the Village Hall Building. The needs of the library grew with the town and, in 1942, a new standalone building was erected, which is where the Library is today. Over the years, the Library was renovated and expanded to meet the needs of the community.

The Library has wonderful resources for adults and children and offers a comfortable and relaxing environment. The Library also houses a fine art collection, consisting principally of Bronxville painters and sculptors.

The Library offers special events, art exhibitions, and programs for adults, young adults and children.  All events are open to the public, unless otherwise indicated.

The Bronxville Public Library
914-337-7680
201 Pondfield Road (Midland Avenue & Pondfield Road)
http://bronxvillelibrary.org/

Iona University

Iona University

At Iona, you’ll find bright, curious students eager to achieve for themselves, and for others. We foster both innovative, independent thinking and a deep commitment to community.

Iona’s unique locations offer the best of both worlds. Our New Rochelle and Bronxville campuses provide comfortable, intimate learning environments. At Iona, everyone knows everyone and faculty members and students work closely together.

With New York City less than half an hour away, students have unlimited options for career development and internship opportunities. Not to mention, access to some of the best cultural attractions in the world!

No two Iona journeys are alike. But they all have a few things in common. High-quality academics, outside-the-box thinking and dedication to helping others underscore every Iona experience.

Iona Bronxville Campus

Iona New Rochelle Campus

Sarah Lawrence College

Sarah Lawrence College

Sarah Lawrence is a prestigious, residential, coeducational liberal arts college. Founded in 1926 and consistently ranked among the leading liberal arts colleges in the country,

Sarah Lawrence is known for its pioneering approach to education, rich history of impassioned intellectual and civic engagement, and vibrant, successful alumni. In close proximity to the unparalleled offerings of New York City, our historic campus is home to an inclusive, intellectually curious, and diverse community.

www.sarahlawrencecollege.edu

914-337-0700
1 Mead Way
Bronxville, New York 10708

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