David Thompson: R.I.P.

Shocking and very sad news. David Thompson, the force behind Busted Flush Press, died suddenly yesterday, September 13. Besides Busted Flush Press, David worked at Murder by the Book for 21 years. He made an indelible impression on the store and everyone who met him. David was co-chair of Bouchercon St. Louis (2011).

David Thompson was so supportive of everyone in the mystery community. Personally we exchanged numerous emails and tweets on authors, signings and new books. He arranged several of the Mystery Reader Literary Salons. Prior to one of the recent Literary Salon with Don Winslow, in addition to sending bookmarks, David put in a bag of chocolate flavored coffee beans for me. Always the personal touch. He knew my taste in chocolate and in crime fiction and was always suggesting new authors. He was always right. He expanded my reading tastes. I will miss him.

There will be a memorial service. Murder by the Book will share details as soon as they are available. In the meantime, David's wife, McKenna Jordan, asks that no tributes be sent to the bookstore for now.

Still reeling from the shock.

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Sarah Weinman has a tribute and links to the many other tributes.

UPDATE: On Sunday, September 26, there will be a celebration of David's life at the Briar Club, 2603 Timmons Lane, Houston, 77027, 2-  5 PM. In addition, Alafair Burke has set up a fund for those who wish to donate money in David's name, is available at the Murder By the Book website.