SBU Hutchens Library to Host Author of Body in the Baptistery

BOLIVAR, MO -- The University Libraries of Southwest Baptist University present the Fourth Annual Fall Meet the Authors Series event, Thursday, October 30, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Harriett K. Hutchens Library.  The library is located in the Jester Learning & Performance Center on the SBU Bolivar campus.  J. W. (Jim) Wilcox, author of Body in the Baptistery, will discuss his book and the exciting new genre of Christian murder mysteries.

The University Libraries Meet the Author Series event is free and the public is invited. There will be music and refreshments at 7:00 p.m. The program will be from 7:30 – 8:30 p.m., including a time for questions and answers.  At 8:30 p.m., Walt Tredway, Director of SBU Bookstore Services, will offer copies of the book for sale.  The author will be available to sign copies of the book.

The book tells the story of Gideon Grant, an ex-cop and a new believer who returns to detective work when his mentor in his newfound faith is murdered.  Set in the Springfield, Missouri, and Ozarks’ region, the action-packed mystery uses some of the well-known local landmarks as a backdrop for much of the mayhem.

Dr. Bruce McNeely, Field Representative for U. S. Congressman Roy Blunt, wrote that, “Body in the Baptistery has more twists and turns than an Ozark river.  The moment that you think you have out-guessed the author, Jim Wilcox, and know where he is going, it takes another surprising turn.  It is a riveting presentation of crime and compassion with descriptions so clear you feel part of the scene. When you must lay the book down, the story line remains in your thoughts and you can hardly wait to pick it up again.”

According to Neil Adams, who teaches English and writing at Southwest Baptist University and Ozarks Technical Community College, “With a mixture of local color, sordid crime, and Christian conviction, Body in the Baptistery should be a compelling read for mystery fans.  For Wilcox’s characters, redemption is always possible but never guaranteed.”

Due to campus construction, use the south entrance on Springfield Street (Business 13) or enter the campus from Pike Street by the Meyer Wellness Center.  Park in the lots in front of or behind the Jester Learning & Performance Center and enter Jester Center at the south (main) entrance or north entrance.

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