Bards Alley Bookshop

Bards Alley presents&nbsp;Hearts on the Table author Susan Metallo in conversation with Alice Scott and Andrew Joseph White
Susan Metallo visits Bards Alley to discuss her new YA novel Hearts on the Table, a reimagining of William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night set during World War I. Join us for the conversation, moderated by bookseller/author Alice Scott and guest author Andrew Joseph White (Hell Followed with Us)!
Boasting an ensemble of queer, trans, and neurodivergent characters, Hearts on the Table follows 17-year-old Violet as she navigates various romantic entanglements on the island where she has been shipwrecked. It is recommended for readers ages 14 and up. Copies will be available for purchase and a post-discussion signing at Bards Alley.
RSVP for free here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/susan-metallo-with-alice-scott-and-andrew-joseph-white-hearts-on-the-table-tickets-2002810130013?aff=ebdsoporgprofile" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">eventbrite.com/e/susan-metallo-with-alice-scott-and-andrew-joseph-white-hearts-on-the-table-tickets-2002810130013?aff=ebdsoporgprofile</a>ABOUT&nbsp;THE&nbsp;BOOKViolet is used to winning—with her mathematical mind, no one stands a chance of beating her at cards, or much of anything else. So, when her wrathful father threatens to marry her and her trans twin brother Seb to the highest bidders, she’s certain they can escape England, even with a war on. But before they reach safety in Italy, a U-boat sinks their ship, and Violet washes up on a small island, on the wrong side of enemy lines, desperate to find her missing twin.
To earn passage to the mainland, where she hopes Seb has landed, Violet disguises herself as a man and accepts a job delivering love poetry for melancholy pacifist Teo, the island’s irritating golden boy. The object of his affection, fair Olivia, is less than enchanted, but she is intrigued by the handsome delivery boy—Violet in disguise. While Violet struggles to sidestep Olivia’s attentions, she’s vexed by her own inconvenient but undeniable attraction to Teo. Add a mysterious newcomer, who converts the love triangle into a square, and Olivia’s autistic sister, who’s concocting a devilish revenge against the island’s biggest bully, and odds are things will only get messier.

Fortunately, playing the odds is Violet’s specialty.
In a twisty transformation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, populated with queer, trans, and neurodivergent characters, Violet’s bold prose alternates with verse chapters from the perspective of autistic musical prodigy Faustina. Susan Metallo’s whip-smart writing and the fresh wartime setting make for a witty, elegant, and high-stakes exploration of love, loss, friendship, and identity.ABOUT&nbsp;THE&nbsp;AUTHORSusan Metallo is a neurodivergent author and youth services librarian. Reasons To Hate Me, her debut novel, was an Indies Introduce Selection for Summer/Fall 2025. She serves as regional advisor for the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators in New Mexico. “My intentions for Hearts on the Table,” she writes, “were to honor the neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ experiences of the early twentieth century with a balance of accuracy and hope, acknowledging the challenges and discrimination while focusing on agency and joy.”

Local Event: Author Talk: Susan Metallo ("Hearts on the Table")

Fairfax County

Vienna

Virginia

Author Talk: Susan Metallo ("Hearts on the Table")

Bards Alley presents Hearts on the Table author Susan Metallo in conversation with Alice Scott and Andrew Joseph White
Susan...

Local author Patricia Tanumihardja presents her latest food-themed picture book Fried Rice SurpriseStart your weekend on a savory note with story time at Bards Alley! Local author Patricia Tanumihardja will treat attendees to a reading of her new picture book Fried Rice Surprise.

Out October 20, Fried Rice Surprise is a delightful story of culinary creativity, following young Fern as she mixes various ingredients to make a fried rice lunch for her friends. It features artwork by Shiho Pate and is ideal for kids ages 4 to 8.

A book signing will follow the reading. If you would like to reserve a copy for pick-up at or before the event, call Bards Alley at (571) 459-2653 or preorder it online here: <a href="https://bardsalley.square.site/product/fried-rice-surprise-pre-order-signed-bookplates-/7ERMG6A3W2CKI4XGD43XT6F3" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">bardsalley.square.site/product/fried-rice-surprise-pre-order-signed-bookplates-/7ERMG6A3W2CKI4XGD43XT6F3</a>

This event is free and does not require registration.ABOUT&nbsp;THE&nbsp;BOOKFern loves opening her lunchbox—sometimes it holds something colorful, sometimes sweet and spicy, but always delicious. When she learns about the Japanese tradition of “mottainai”—never wasting what’s too good to throw away—Fern is inspired to create a meal to share with her friends. Together with her mama, she stirs up a wok of fried rice filled with everyone’s favorite flavors: curry spices, carnitas, pilaf, bok choy, and more. With lively, joyful illustrations by Shiho Pate and a heartfelt story by Patricia Tanumihardja, this picture book celebrates food, friendship, and the magic that happens when different ingredients—and people—come together.ABOUT&nbsp;THE&nbsp;AUTHORPatricia Tanumihardja was born in Jakarta to Chinese-Indonesian parents and grew up in Singapore, where she developed a lifelong love of food and storytelling. She is the author of several cookbooks highlighting pan-Asian flavors as well as children’s picture books that celebrate the connections between food, culture, and community, including Ramen for Everyone and Fried Rice Surprise. She now lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and son, where she continues to write and cook with equal passion.

Local Event: Story Time with Patricia Tanumihardja

Story Time with Patricia Tanumihardja

Local author Patricia Tanumihardja presents her latest food-themed picture book Fried Rice SurpriseStart your weekend on a...

Caboose Brewing Company & Tavern

Bards Alley and Caboose Tavern's book fair returns with autumnal vibesSwing by Caboose Tavern on Sunday, October 25 for a boozy, spooky book fair!

From 3 to 6 p.m., Bards Alley booksellers will be set up with tables of enticing new fiction and nonfiction, cozy or creepy fall reads, and more literary gems. All ages are welcome; while our inventory for this event is primarily geared toward adults, a selection of picture books and children's literature will be available.

Take a peek or settle down for an afternoon of socializing! In addition to curating special book/drink pairings, Caboose is offering happy hour deals throughout the event, so attendees can enjoy $1 off food, $2 off beer, and $3 off wine and cocktails while they browse.

Attendance is free and does not require registration.

Local Event: (Spooky) Books 'n Brews

(Spooky) Books 'n Brews

Bards Alley and Caboose Tavern's book fair returns with autumnal vibesSwing by Caboose Tavern on Sunday, October 25 for a...

Bards Alley

Michelle Witte

Washington Metropolitan Area

Tysons Corner

Patch AM Team

Wolf Trap

Fairfax

Tysons

Dunn Loring

Oakton

Merrifield

Idylwood

Pimmit Hills

Mantua

Fairfax city

Lake Anne Brew House

What do we do with biblical passages that have been used to justify discrimination, exclusion, or oppression? How do we distinguish between what Scripture says and what people have used Scripture to say?
Why do sincere people reach radically different conclusions from the same Scriptures—and what happens when those interpretations are used to determine who belongs, who holds power, and who is treated as less than equal?
Is the problem with these passages themselves, or with the ways we have interpreted and applied them?
Led by Pastor Daniel Park, October’s Taproom Theology will explore several historically difficult passages of Scripture—passages that have, at times, been used as weapons. 
Together, we’ll consider how interpretation shapes our understanding of Scripture, how these texts have been used throughout history, and how we as Christians can respond faithfully today.

Local Event: Taproom Theology: When Scripture is Weaponized, Wrestling with Difficult Passages

Reston

Taproom Theology: When Scripture is Weaponized,...

What do we do with biblical passages that have been used to justify discrimination, exclusion, or oppression? How do we...

Taproom Theology: When Scripture is Weaponized, Wrestling with Difficult Passages

Local Event: Taproom Theology: When Scripture is Weaponized, Wrestling with Difficult Passages 

Taproom Theology: When Scripture is Weaponized, Wrestling with Difficult Passages 

The free JSSA<a href="https://virtualexpos.accessjca.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"> </a><a href="https://jssa.org/virtualexpos/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Northern Virginia, MD Virtual 50+ Employment Expo</a> is designed to connect jobseekers aged 50 and over with age-friendly employers.
Expo program:
<ul>
 <li>Workshops (10 - 11:45 a.m.) Start your day with two engaging workshops tailored to jobseekers aged 50 and above. These sessions provide valuable strategies, tools, and insights to support your career journey.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
 <li>Employer Presentations (12 - 3 p.m.*) Employers share information about their current full- and part-time job openings. Jobseekers can ask employers questions via Zoom chat, making the expo a dynamic and interactive experience.</li>
</ul>
Jobseekers: Whether you are re-entering the workforce, changing careers, or seeking new opportunities, you are invited to
join us for the expo on Thursday, October 15, 2026. Register today at <a href="https://www.jssa.org/services/career-services/virtual-50-employment-expos/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">jssa.org/virtualexpos/</a>.
Employers: If your organization has at least three job openings, this is your opportunity to meet talented and experienced professionals. Learn more and register today at <a href="https://www.jssa.org/services/career-services/virtual-50-employment-expos/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">jssa.org/virtualexpos/</a>. Registration is free and required.
*The expo end time will be extended to accommodate additional employers. You may join, exit, and rejoin the expo as your schedule permits.
The free JSSA Northern Virginia Virtual 50+ Employment Expos are generously funded by The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation.
As of July 1, 2026, JCA and JSSA merged. Find the same service programs you relied on throughout the years, just under the JSSA name.
JSSA serves people of all faiths, races, ethnicities, and income levels.

Local Event: Registration is Open - JSSA Northern Virginia, MD Virtual 50+ Employment Expo

Fairfax City

Registration is Open - JSSA Northern Virginia,...

The free JSSA Northern Virginia, MD Virtual 50+ Employment Expo is designed to connect jobseekers aged 50 and over with...

Registration is Open - JSSA Northern Virginia, MD Virtual 50+ Employment Expo

Sunrise at Reston Town Center

🍂 Fall into your next Sales Leadership opportunity! 🍂
Are you a driven, relationship-focused sales professional looking for your next challenge? Join us for a Sales Opportunities Meet &amp; Greet at Sunrise at Reston Town Center on Thursday, October 15th, from 4:00–7:00 PM.
Meet the Executive Directors from Sunrise of Reston and Sunrise of Hunter Mill, explore exciting Director of Sales opportunities, tour one of our beautiful communities, enjoy light refreshments, and participate in on-the-spot interviews.
Senior living sales experience is preferred, but we'd also love to meet successful consultative sales professionals from healthcare, hospitality, membership sales, or other relationship-driven industries.
🍁 Space is limited! To learn more or reserve your spot for this hiring event, email or text Jay Standridge, Talent Acquisition Manager at:&nbsp;jay.standridge@sunriseseniorliving.com / 571-599-7117.

Local Event: Director of Sales Career Meet & Greet at Sunrise Senior Living

Director of Sales Career Meet & Greet at...

🍂 Fall into your next Sales Leadership opportunity! 🍂
Are you a driven, relationship-focused sales professional looking for...

Director of Sales Career Meet & Greet at Sunrise Senior Living

Oh George! Tables and Taphouse

You're invited to Dine &amp; Discover Windrose! Join us on Thursday, October 15 at 5:00 PM at Oh George! Tables and Taphouse for a relaxed evening where you can learn all about Windrose, the newest 55+ Active Adult community coming to Fairfax.
Windrose is a brand-new apartment community designed for adults 55 and better, located at 4300 Fair Lakes Court in Fairfax, with an anticipated opening in Spring 2027. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet our team, hear about what we are building, and ask any questions you may have about the community and the lifestyle we are creating.
Whether you are just starting to explore your options or are simply curious about what is coming to the neighborhood, we would love to meet you.
EVENT&nbsp;DETAILS: Date: Thursday, October 15 Time: 5:00 - 8:00 PM Location: Oh George! Tables and Taphouse, 10659C Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA
Please RSVP here so we can save you a seat: <a href="https://my.hy.ly/mktg/hyevents/1876347010551982478/landing_page" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">my.hy.ly/mktg/hyevents/1876347010551982478/landing_page</a>
If you have any questions before the event, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at 984-370-5593 or email windroseleasing@greystar.com We look forward to seeing you there!

Local Event: Dine & Discover Windrose: Meet Fairfax's Newest 55+ Active Adult Community

Dine & Discover Windrose: Meet Fairfax's Newest...

You're invited to Dine & Discover Windrose! Join us on Thursday, October 15 at 5:00 PM at Oh George! Tables and Taphouse for a...

Dine & Discover Windrose: Meet Fairfax's Newest 55+ Active Adult Community

Join Carolyn Bagdoyan at Trace in Vienna on October 15 to explore how care for our fascia and feet help us get "unstuck" and build a sustainable foundation for improved whole-body health.

Local Event: Fascia, Feet and Whole Body Health

Fascia, Feet and Whole Body Health

Join Carolyn Bagdoyan at Trace in Vienna on October 15 to explore how care for our fascia and feet help us get "unstuck" and...

Church of the Holy Comforter

The Whiffenpoofs of 2027 are so excited to be performing at the Church of the Holy Comforter to celebrate Reston/NOVA native Cyrus Rivers (TJHSST '23)! Since their founding in 1909, the Whiffenpoofs have brought their diverse repertoire of vocal jazz, folk, pop, and Broadway hits to more than two hundred audiences each year across all 6 inhabited continents. In past years, the ‘Whiffs’ have sung for Presidents Obama, Bush (41 and 43), Clinton, and Reagan, and at venues including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center. They've even been featured on television shows such as “The Sing Off,” “The West Wing,” and “Glee.” We hope to see you there! Purchase tickets now to secure a spot:&nbsp;<a href="https://whiffs.ticketbud.com/the-yale-whiffenpoofs-in-reston" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">whiffs.ticketbud.com/the-yale-whiffenpoofs-in-reston</a>

Local Event: The Yale Whiffenpoofs in Northern Virginia

The Yale Whiffenpoofs in Northern Virginia

The Whiffenpoofs of 2027 are so excited to be performing at the Church of the Holy Comforter to celebrate Reston/NOVA native...

The Moose - Herndon Lodge 2274, 779 Center St, Herndon, VA, 20170

The Closet's Everything ChristmasAnnual Holiday Sale
Your first stop for Christmas and seasonal items for holiday decor, gifts, entertaining and toys

Local Event: The Closet's Everything Christmas

The Closet's Everything Christmas

The Closet's Everything ChristmasAnnual Holiday Sale
Your first stop for Christmas and seasonal items for holiday decor, gifts,...

The Reston Museum is excited to announce that the much-anticipated Reston Home Tour will take place from 10:00AM to 4:00PM Saturday, October 17th. &nbsp;The tour will feature six fabulous residences throughout Reston. &nbsp;Visit the homes at your own leisurely pace and enjoy the special touches, unique styles and specially crafted designs of each home.&nbsp;Tickets can be purchased at the Reston Museum located on Lake Anne Plaza or online at restonmuseum.org. &nbsp;

Local Event: Don't Miss the 2026 Reston Home Tour October 17th!

Don't Miss the 2026 Reston Home Tour October 17th!

The Reston Museum is excited to announce that the much-anticipated Reston Home Tour will take place from 10:00AM to 4:00PM...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Bards Alley, Local Business

Posting Activity

Author Talk: Susan Metallo ("Hearts on the Table")

OCT

22

6:00 PM

Bards Alley Bookshop, 110 Church St NW, Vienna, VA

Story Time with Patricia Tanumihardja

OCT

24

11:00 AM

Bards Alley Bookshop, 110 Church St NW, Vienna, VA

(Spooky) Books 'n Brews

OCT

25

3:00 PM

Caboose Brewing Company & Tavern, 520 Mill St NE, Vienna, VA

Taproom Theology: When Scripture is Weaponized, Wrestling with Difficult Passages

Taproom Theology: When Scripture is Weaponized, Wrestling with Difficult Passages

Registration is Open - JSSA Northern Virginia, MD Virtual 50+ Employment Expo

Director of Sales Career Meet & Greet at Sunrise Senior Living

Dine & Discover Windrose: Meet Fairfax's Newest 55+ Active Adult Community

Fascia, Feet and Whole Body Health

The Yale Whiffenpoofs in Northern Virginia

The Closet's Everything Christmas

Don't Miss the 2026 Reston Home Tour October 17th!

Don't Miss the 2026 Reston Home Tour!