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An elegant event with an air of mystery: Meet this author at Olathe’s Novel Tea Party

A ticket to this year’s Novel Tea Party at Olathe Indian Creek Library might be a gateway to time travel. The theme of the event, hosted by Friends of the Library, is “Back to the ’70s.”

Friends of the Library board selected USA Today bestselling author Julie Mulhern as a literary gift for guests.

The writer’s Agatha Christie-style mysteries are in high demand this century. But books from her A Country Club Murder series transport readers to an earlier era: the bell-bottom-days of the 1970s.

Passages from the author’s fan-favorite book “The Deep End” will help those listening revisit the past. Books in the series are rooted in the Midwest.

Friends of the Library Board President Donna McCarthy will greet guests at the April 8 event. While the tea starts at 2 p.m., doors open earlier for those who want to admire the scenery.

“People have time to walk around and see 16 decorative tables,” McCarthy said. Friends of the Library members will design a table setting, but they’re not alone in the project. Groups from all over town pitch in to dress as many as 15 tabletops.

“I’m in awe how creative they are,” McCarthy said. “Every year, they somehow always match the table to the theme.”

A mix of businesses and organizations — such as Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop-Farm, the Daughters of the American Revolution, Ladies Reading Circle, Mary Kay cosmetics and Olathe Junior Service League — dress the tables.

New this year is Sweet Tee’s Coffee Shop.

“Our goal is to give the theme our main focus,” said owner Karen Morris. “We’re known for pastries, too. The thank you gifts at our table will be little bags with scones.”

All who pitch into the event are volunteers, McCarthy said.

“We appreciate them more than they ever know.”

Delicacies on a menu catered by Diane Gossage will include fresh fruit, dainty cucumber sandwiches and little cookies to dip into cups of warm chocolate.

“I try to make a connection between the menu and the program,” she said. “I don’t have a business. I do this because I’m asked to and I enjoy doing it.”

As has been the case in recent years, suggested attire for the tea is elegant but comfortable clothing, such as colorful dresses that would suit a springtime party. Still, playful fashions straight from the 1970s, reflections of the party’s nostalgic theme, are an option.

“What was old is good again,” said Mulhern, adding that her collection of mysteries set in the 1970s are, “Good, almost clean, fun. No bodies ... Well, no promises.”

After reading from a book, Mulhern will take questions from the audience. She will also meet readers and sign books at the end of the tea.

Tickets to the Novel Tea Party are limited. The event will be held from 2-4 p.m. April 8 at the Indian Creek Library. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. The event benefits the Curtis Gilmore Memorial Scholarship. For information go to olathelbrary.org.