North Shore author Jason Stadtlander will read from his novel The Steel Van Man and take questions at the Swampscott Public Library on Wednesday, November 12.

Originally published in 2017, The Steel Van Man follows a serial killer in Swampscott who operates by a unique code of ethics. Detective Stanley Devonshire investigates the meticulously staged murders and uncovers cold cases spanning decades. The psychological thriller and horror novel tracks Devonshire and his longtime friend from Marblehead, Detective Mark Brown, as they race to stop the killer terrorizing their community.

“Set here in Swampscott, The Steel Van Man is a gripping thriller that blends suspense with familiar North Shore settings – making it especially meaningful for local readers,” the library posted. “This updated edition reintroduces Jason’s most popular novel to a new audience.”

Stadtlander writes suspense and science fiction, with other works including the short fiction collection Ruins of the Mind and The Ter’roc Evolution, which follows Heidi Kilbourne as she discovers an ancient alien race and questions whether they are true allies or something more sinister.

In addition to his writing, Stadtlander has worked in IT since 1995 and has contributed articles and blog posts to outlets such as Inspiration Unlimited, Practical Parenting, and The Huffington Post.

Attendees of Stadtlander’s talk on November 12 will also have the chance to purchase a signed copy of The Steel Van Man.

To register for the event

 visit https://swampscottlibrary.org/2025/10/jason-stadtlander-local-author/