Every book holds a secret. Every page brings you closer.
Something mysterious is unfolding at Tacoma Book Fair. Step into a world of killer reads, where stories come alive, secrets are waiting to be uncovered, and unexpected plot twists lurk around every corner. Your next great read is hiding in plain sight. Consider this your first clue.
Book Lovers Unite!
Book Lovers Unite!
Step into a family-friendly weekend of literary discoveries, curious encounters, and a little harmless mischief. Meet bestselling and local authors, explore bookish vendors, enjoy specialty drinks, and uncover everything from murderboarding and cosplay to tattoos, prizes, and more. You never know what you'll stumble upon.
Want to be an author or vendor at our 2027 Event?
featured events
An Evening of Mystery with
J.A. Jance
November 7 | 5:30-7:30pm
LOCATION: Point Defiance Pagoda | 5801 Trolley Ln, Tacoma, WA 98407
Join us for an intimate evening with New York Times bestselling author J.A. Jance, the celebrated voice behind the J.P. Beaumont, Joanna Brady, and Ali Reynolds mystery and thriller series.
Go behind the pages as Jance shares stories, insights, and the inspiration behind her gripping crime fiction through a live author conversation and audience Q&A. The evening will also include light bites, drinks, and a book signing.
Books will be available for purchase through our local independent bookstore partner, with proceeds benefiting the Tacoma Public Library.
Plus additional featured authors!
The Mystery Begins Early! The evening kicks off with The Joy of Crime, a special opening panel featuring three acclaimed mystery and thriller authors. Get to know the panelists below!
The Joy of Crime
Three Authors. One Killer Conversation.
Before J.A. Jance takes the stage, join Jeff Ayers, Glen Erik Hamilton, and K.B. Jackson as they explore what draws them to crime fiction, the authors who inspired them, the secrets behind a great mystery or thriller, and their journeys through the genre.
Jeff Ayers
Co-author of the National Park thriller series and Jigsaw Puzzle Mysteries, longtime book reviewer, and former ThrillerFest co-executive director.
K.B. Jackson
Two-time Agatha Award-winning author of mysteries for adults and young readers, including the Cruising Sisters Mysteries and Chattertowne Secrets series.
Glen Erik Hamilton
Award-winning author of the Van Shaw crime thriller series, including Island of Thieves.
Murderboarding 101
W O R K S H O P
The Anatomy of a Case: Breaking Down Crime Fiction with Hannah Morrissey
November 14
Workshop: 11:30 am-1 pm
Book Signing 2-4 pm
LOCATION: Point Defiance Pagoda | 5801 Trolley Ln, Tacoma, WA 98407
Murderboarding is more than a writing process; it’s a lifestyle. USA Today bestselling author Hannah Morrissey shares a step-by-step look into how she crafts an addictive thriller with characters that live rent-free in readers’ minds long after the last page has been turned. From interrogating her characters to mapping out twists, reveals, and emotional beats, attendees will get an inside look at why the murderboard is at the heart of her creative process—and why she’ll never write a novel without one.
What to Expect
