Mary Vermillion will read from her new novel, Seminal Murder. The book features Dr. Grace Everest who is murdered in her own sperm bank. Mara Gilgannon attempts to find the killer and to protect a beloved ex who is desperately seeking motherhood. Mary Vermillion is the author of three lesbian mystery novels—all set in Iowa and all featuring the plucky and neurotic radio personality, Mara Gilgannon. Her first novel, Death by Discount, a finalist for two Lambda awards, portrays Walmart’s impact on small-town America. Her second, Murder by Mascot, provides a darkly comic look at homophobia and sexual violence in the world of Division I basketball.

Vermillion is a Professor of English at Mount Mercy University. She lives in Iowa City with her partner and three cats.