Gwinnett Daily Post

NORCROSS -- Known as an international best-selling author of thrillers, Atlanta native Karin Slaughter plans to stop by the Norcross Barnes & Noble on Saturday in hopes to raise money for the Gwinnett County Public Library system. She will talk about her latest novel, "Criminal," and sign copies starting at 3 p.m.

"We are very grateful that Karin is such a vocal and caring advocate for libraries," said Gwinnett County Public Library Executive Director Nancy Stanbery-Kellam. "Barnes & Noble has presented us with a fantastic opportunity to reach customers who want to support us while enjoying a day of fun for the whole family."

"Criminal" was released on Tuesday and is an "epic tale of love, loyalty and murder that encompasses 40 years, two chillingly similar murder cases and a good man's deepest secrets," according to a press release.

The story follows Will Trent, an agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and his supervisor and mentor, deputy director Amanda Wagner. When a local college student goes missing, the plot takes a new turn, exposing Trent's past.

But before Slaughter makes her appearance to discuss "Criminal," the bookstore is hosting a Curious George-themed story time for children beginning at 11 a.m.

Besides purchasing books, Gwinnettians in attendance have the opportunity to sign their teens and children up for the library's Summer Reading Program while at the event.

Customers who mention the library while checking out at the Norcross store can benefit the library with their purchases from 9 a.m. Saturday through 8 p.m. Sunday.

Slaughter is a New York Times best-selling author of 12 novels, including "Fallen," "Broken," "Undone," "Fractured," "Beyond Reach," "Triptych" and "Faithless."