A crowd of thriller fans and book lovers turned out for an exciting evening, Sunday, with best-selling author Jennifer Van Der Kleut at West Columbia’s Ikie Lu Record Club.

The special event featured a live conversation with the author, an audience Q&A session, book signing, and photo opportunities. Hosted by Michael Norris of I Heart a Good Thriller, the evening was an intimate and engaging experience for readers who were eager to meet one of the genre’s fastest-rising stars.

Guests from all across the state and enjoyed wonderful fellowship, delicious food and drinks, and even cake as we celebrated The Better Mother ‘s Award for “Best First Novel” by the @ippyawards -A well-deserved honor! 

Jennifer shared fascinating insights into the story behind the book, her journey as a writer, her next book and the ins and outs of the publishing world.

A few thank-yous:

 Jennifer, thank you for saying yes and spending the evening with us in SC. Jennifer van der Kleut, Author

 “Miss I Heart,” thank you for encouraging me to put this event together.

 Thank you to all of our friends and neighbors who attended and made the evening so special.

 Thank you to Ikie Lu Record Club for providing such a wonderful venue.

 Thank you to the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber & Visitors Program for your support.

Thank you Thompson Funeral Homes for providing the chairs!

This was a memorable evening, and I know we’ll do it again!

And if you haven’t read The Better Mother yet… DO IT NOW!

Jennifer Van Der Kleut has quickly become one of the most talked-about new voices in thriller fiction. Her accomplishments include:

• Being named one of the Most Anticipated Debut Thrillers of 2026
• Reaching a fourth printing just three months after release
• Exclusive feature coverage in People Magazine
• Featured appearances at major literary events, including the Virginia Festival of the Book and the Gaithersburg Literary Festival

Books will be available for purchase at the event, giving attendees the opportunity to have their copies personally signed by the author.