As I look out my window today at the Oxford store at 4:15 pm on December 31, 2008 I see a beautiful if extremely breezy Tred Avon riverscape, and a brilliant setting sun. I also realize that at this minute my husband is shutting the door of Mystery Loves Company in Baltimore for the very last time. Author and crime scene specialist John French was in to say goodbye in Baltimore. He reminded us that he was our first customer in August 1991 and was to be one of our last customers today. Louise Titchener came by with a bottle of bubbly and chocolate for tonight's festivities. It is with a very heavy heart and with many fond memories that we leave Baltimore where we have sold books on Fleet Street (as in "Demon Barber of") in Fells Point for 17+ years.
We have held many "launches" of wonderful mystery series (John's, Tim's, Louise's, Jack's, Laura's, Sujata's and George's) to mention a few, unpacked and shelved thousands of books, sold hundreds of copies of our 100 best mysteries and Chesapeake authors, made tea for hundreds of happy fans of visiting authors, and placed hundreds of kibble in bowls for our store cats Nick and Nora. We also think of those who are no longer with us, who worked long and hard hours to help us do all those wonderful things -- Maurice Simmons, Sue Feder, and Paige Rose. I thank Dotty and Sammi and Tom as well. Please remember them fondly. I do.
The time, however had come to leave Baltimore and continue our life on our beautiful Eastern Shore. We hope you will come and see us in 340 year-old Oxford and our fabulous renovated bank building location. The serene surroundings, and great food and lodging will make you linger long after you purchased your books.
Thank you again for supporting our independent bookstore. We hope to see you soon in Oxford or online at http://www.mysterylovescompany.com/
Happy New Year,
Kathy
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