In Panel 10 of the RV Book Fair 2024, “Love at First Write: Romance Authors on Inspiration and Craft,” award-winning author Risa August, alongside fellow romance authors Nikki Perry and Kirsty Roby, will share their insights on the art of crafting irresistible romance novels. Moderated by Pat Backley and Lucia Matuonto, this lively discussion will delve into the inspiration behind their heartwarming and humorous stories, as well as the craft of writing relatable, fun, and authentic characters. With a focus on real, older women and the quirky aspects of life and love, Nikki and Kirsty will reveal what makes their rom-coms so relatable and engaging. From personal anecdotes to their collaborative writing process, the authors will explore how they bring humor, heart, and authenticity to their books, all while keeping readers laughing and swooning.
Risa August
Award-winning author, Speaker, Gestalt Practitioner, and Patient Advocate, Risa August has been living with a pituitary tumor and rare disease for over a decade. Risa shares her insights and perspectives on stage, offering words of inspiration to audiences. Additionally, Risa works one-on-one with clients, guiding them through the many roadblocks of life and toward living more fully inspired.
A girl with sparkles in her hair and once an Ironman athlete, Risa still has a passion for her bike and barbells. With her genuine curiosity and love for trying new (and old) things, you may find Risa taking Bollywood or Hip-Hop dance lessons, trying a silks aerialist or boxing class, going indoor skydiving, and guiding inspirational workshops in creativity.
Through her personal transformation, Risa has learned and practiced removing limiting beliefs, shifting her perspective, and embracing an expansive life…a life unleashed.
Find out more at www.risaaugust.com.
Nikki Perry and Kirsty Roby
Nikki Perry and Kirsty Roby are New Zealand rom-com writers and also sisters. They grew up in Tauranga, where Nikki still lives in peace and quiet, having successfully managed to shake her three kids from the nest. Kirsty lives in Auckland where she volunteers with Radio Lollipop and lives with all her children, who refuse to leave. So far they have published six novels, with another due out in 2025. They write fun, quirky reads, about real, older women. When they can, they travel together, attend music concerts and love an excuse to dress up in a costume. Unashamed Harry Styles fans, they love to laugh, even if it’s at themselves. Neither of them can do a cartwheel for love nor money.
Find out more at www.nikkiperryandkirstyroby.com.
Pat Backley
Pat Backley is an author based in Auckland, New Zealand, who emigrated from England in 2010. Passionate about people and travel, she has lived a colorful and interesting life, and her books reflect these passions. Her debut novel, “Daisy”, is a historical family saga spanning almost 100 years, from 1887 to 1974, set in Alabama, Harlem, and London. She has also written “Valentine George”, which follows the life of an ordinary man through extraordinary times, and “The Second Daisy”, focusing on life in 1980s London. In addition to her novels, Pat has authored memoirs and guides, including “From There To Here (With An Awful Lot In Between)” and “The Abandoned Wives Handbook: A Gentle Guide to One of Life’s Great Traumas”.
For more information, visit her official website at patbackley.com.
Lucia Matuonto
Lucia Matuonto is the creator and host of The Relatable Voice Podcast and Catch The Story! Podcast, as well as the founder and CEO of Relatable Media LLC. She is also the producer and chief editor of The Relatable Voice Magazine and The RV Book Fair. An award-winning author and entrepreneur, Lucia has published five books, including the beloved Zoe the Crab series and Out of The Box, A New World. Her latest book, Homegrown Superheroes, is set to be released soon.
In addition to her podcasting ventures, she hosts UNCUT with Lucia, where she spotlights unique voices and stories. Lucia’s passion for storytelling and connecting creatives shines through her work, making her a cherished figure in the literary and podcasting communities. www.relatable-media.com