A Full-Circle Moment at Bethany Beach Books

On Wednesday, June 24, 2026 (6:30-8 p.m.), I’ll be signing copies of Welcome to Seagull Street: That Summer in Ocean City, Maryland, at Bethany Beach Books in Bethany Beach, Delaware. If you’ve spent any time in Bethany, you probably already know the bookstore. It’s one of those places that feels like a destination all by itself. For me, this event is especially meaningful because I first knew Bethany Beach Books as a reader, not a writer.

Over the years, I’ve wandered through the aisles looking for vacation reads, gifts, and stories to take to the beach for me and my kids. Like so many beach-town bookstores, it has a way of slowing you down. You walk in planning to browse for a few minutes and somehow leave much later carrying a stack of books you didn’t know you needed.

When I started writing Welcome to Seagull Street, I wasn’t thinking about book signings or author events. I was simply trying to tell a story inspired by a place I’ve loved for most of my life. Ocean City’s beaches, neighborhoods, the Boardwalk traditions, and unforgettable summer atmosphere became the backdrop for a story about friendship, second chances, and starting over.

Now, a little over a year after the book’s release, I have the opportunity to sit inside one of my favorite independent bookstores and talk with readers about the novel. That’s something I never take for granted.

Independent bookstores play such an important role in connecting readers with new voices. They create communities around books and conversations around stories. As both a reader and an author, I’m grateful for the support that stores like Bethany Beach Books provide.

If you’re local to the Maryland or Delaware beaches, or visiting for the week, I’d love to meet you! This is a casual drop-in book signing, so stop by to chat about Welcome to Seagull Street, Ocean City, writing, reading, or whatever books you’re enjoying this summer. No tickets, reservations, or purchases are necessary. Bring your personal copy and I’ll sign it, buy one there, or simply stop by to say hello. I’d love to see you.

Also, I may be able to give you a sneak peek of the cover art for Book 2 by Marc Emond!

I can’t think of a better place to spend a summer evening talking about beach reads than a bookstore just a few miles from the shore.

Event Details: https://www.bethanybeachbooks.com/upcoming-events/alissa-arford

Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BLu188GMJ/

Remember, though, no RSVP is necessary.

Happy Reading!