A large crowd attended Assistance League of Nashville’s Fall 2023 Author Luncheon, which was held at Richland Country Club.

Anna Marie, host of Real Life with Anna Marie on MIX 92.9 radio, served as emcee, and music was provided by Ron de la Vega and Andy Reiss.

Nashville novelist J. T. Ellison and Jeremy Finley, Novelist and Chief Investigative Reporter for WSMV-TV, were the featured speakers, but Ellison had tested positive for Covid and, as the show must go on, she appeared before the group via Zoom.

Ellison and Finley are co-hosts for the popular public television program “A Word on Words.” Finley is the chief investigative reporter for WSMV and he specializes in looking into political corruption, criminal activity and waste of taxpayer money. He has received twenty Emmys, four Edward R. Murrow awards, and numerous other honors.

At the luncheon, Finley asked questions of Ellison about her life and work. She told about moving to Nashville and deciding to set some of her novels in the city. The books are described as entertaining, fun and fast-paced.

One of Ellison’s main characters in her psychological thrillers, Taylor Jackson, was born in Belle Meade and became a homicide lieutenant. Ellison’s works also delve into infertility, which she has experienced.

A huge silent auction offered: wine and whiskey, jars of local honey, Predators tickets and tee shirts, fabulous travel getaways, lovely artwork, books, signed guitars, pet items, jewelry, skin care goods, tickets to local attractions, crystal candle holders, vacation trips, gift baskets with candy, kitchen and gardening tools, and fall foods, dinners at local restaurants, sports lessons, and much more.

Trays of gruyere cheese with caramelized onions in pastry cups circulated while everyone perused the auction, and they enjoyed flutes of Champagne and other beverages.

The delicious luncheon menu included chicken crepes, asparagus, rice and moist chocolate cake.

White cloths were laid on the tables, accented with burnt orange napkins and taupe Chiavari chairs. Lovely centerpieces were created with acorn squash holding orange roses, yellow mums and other blooms.

An extraordinary group of donors, sponsors and friends are impacting the lives of the children of Nashville. We are extremely grateful for the gifts to Assistance League® of Nashville as an investment in our important work – transforming lives and strengthening community.