While there are perhaps few people who will openly admit it, everyone does love a good intrigue. The human animal has a certain natural propensity for mischief-making and an even healthier appetite for the juiciest morsels of scandal. Have you seen the news recently? A high definition smorgasbord of gossiping tidbits gussied up as journalism makes a nice parade on the American television circuit – and we love it. And such proclivities towards tittle-tattle, danger and scheme span generations – even, yes, in the sweet and sunny past of Louisville’s own streets. Curious to dig up dirt on your Great-Grandpa? Join historian and author Keven McQueen as he presents his latest volume showcasing Louisville’s most provocative tales of the naughty, Louisville Murder and Mayhem: Historic Crimes of Derby City, tomorrow, May 12th, at Carmichael’s Bookstore.
Turning a curious and discerning eye on the years following the Civil War, McQueen’s Louisville Murder and Mayhem focuses on the exciting and dangerous lives of Louisville’s underworld. As our city continued to blossom into an important urban hub of regional culture and commerce – a bridge between the South, North and the Midwest – Louisville’s streets became a Mecca for all measures of crime and depravity sure to turn even the most grizzled constitutions a shade of red. From brothels abuzz with activity and alleys populated by notorious gangs and thieves to the criminal duo dubbed "Louisville's Bonnie and Clyde", Louisville Murder and Mayhem reveals the darker side of our gentle city.
McQueen will present this sweetly morbid collection for your scandalous pleasure at the Carmichael’s Bookstore Frankfort Avenue location. Starting at 4pm, McQueen will read some of the juiciest selections and be available afterward for signatures – and, yes, perhaps an ear for gossip. Louisville Murder and Mayhem: Historic Crimes of Derby City is on shelves now in paperback at both Carmichael’s stores for $17.99. Take a little time out of your weekend afternoon, get a dose of local history and enjoy a savory waggling of tongues over Louisville’s most notorious scallywags.
Carmichael’s Bookstore has two area locations: 1295 Bardstown Road and 2720 Frankfort Avenue. For more information, visit the event page or call the Frankfort Avenue store at (502)896-6950.
Image: Courtesy of Carmichael’s Bookstore website www.carmichaelsbookstore.com
