Toyi Ward will be at the Ironton Branch of Briggs Lawrence County Public Library Thursday, Aug. 20 at 6 p.m. to sign her debut novel, “Par for the Curse.”

Ward, a former resident of Lawrence County, is a multimedia personality.

She is the host of Toyi Talk, a blog talk radio show. On air, Ward is well known for her authentic and outspoken voice. Ward is also a freelance writer with numerous magazines. This year she added published author to her resume.

Her debut novel, “Par for the Curse,” examines the influence of secrets on family, life and love.

The heroine, Stormy, has been raised with the belief she has been cursed.

Although she has seemed to escape the curse for most of her life, the hex cast 80 years ago is about to send her on a journey. Will she be strong enough to break the web of the curse and save her and her family?

“I can’t wait to be back in Lawrence County and visit Briggs,” Ward said. “I have fond memories of the library during my childhood and look forward to being there again”

Even though Ward is a new author, the reviews have been excellent.

Ward is complimented for the realistic nature of her characters and their plights. Another reviewer says Ward took her on a “roller-coaster ride of drama and deceit.”

“Par for the Curse” is just the first in a series of books by the new author. “Butterfly Falls,” its sequel, is due out in 2010.

Copies of “Par for the Curse” will be available at the library during the book signing only.

Anyone interested in talking to the author or buying a signed copy of the book can stop by the Ironton Branch Library at 321 S. Fourth St. on Aug. 20 between 6 p.m. at 7:30 p.m.

For more information, please contact Lori Shafer at 740-532-1124.