Live author events are back! I just spent a marvelous afternoon at the Las Vegas Book Festival, where I fan-girled over some of my favorite romance authors.
The festival was held at the Historic Fifth Street School, a complex now used for cultural events. (Looks like they used the sign from last year’s canceled event.) The weather was balmy, so author panels took place outdoors under tents. Many booklovers came to hear a livestreamed presentation by literary superstars like Sandra Cisneros and Fran Lebowitz, but I came for the kissing books!
The first panel featured (left to right) moderator Chrystal Perkins, Priscilla Oliveras, Farrah Rochon, Jayce Lee, and Sonali Dev. Squee! It was such a relief to listen to the authors describe five very different writing processes, from extreme plotter (plans out the book in detail before writing it) to extreme pantser (writes by the seat of her pants). Knowing these Romancelandia heavy-hitters suffer the same doubts and setbacks as a baby author like me is super reassuring. And they’re all so funny in person!
Next up, a panel with THE Vanessa Riley, Jen DeLuca, and Naima Simone. Again, all the speakers were very honest and absolutely hilarious. I enjoyed hearing about each author’s literary roots–what drew her to writing romance ficiton. Ms. Riley shared that her latest release, Island Queen, has been optioned for film by a UK company. Guess who’s executive producer for the project? Bridgerton’s Lady Danbury herself, the elegant Adjoa Andoh. (Once again, Squeeee!)
Of course, it’s impossible to attend a book festival and not by a book. I left with only one, Sonali Dev’s Recipe for Persuasion. I do love a foodie romance. The author included a pretty bangle bracelet too!
Plus–a tasty food truck lunch, and I finally got to meet a few Las Vegas romance authors in person. A most excellent event!
Speaking of live events, if you should find yourself in Las Vegas, I hope you’ll come visit me at Bally’s Convention Center for a huuuuge author signing with over 300 authors across all genres. Look for me in Steamy Romance.
I’m so looking forward to the 20Books Vegas conference that week. Get this–the steamy romance authors are going to see the Magic Mike Live show–because of course we are! I wonder if I can write off the tickets as a business expense? Research, you know. Very important to a writer.
How about you? Have you attended any book festivals or live author events this fall? Drop your recommendations in the comments so I can plan future trips!
