Local authors gathered at Markets Ontario in Bowmanville to show off their new books, filling the space with decorated booths and colourful displays.
Nine self-published authors took part in the event on Nov. 8, which featured live readings, a make-your-own-bookmark station, and a book swap.
Authors and readers came together to share their passion for stories. But for many writers, events like this are more than a celebration of books. They are a crucial chance to get their names out into the community.
For indie writers, especially those publishing their first book, building visibility can be a challenge. So is keeping up with social media and marketing. That’s where events like this step in.
Meeting readers face-to-face gives authors a chance to explain their books, answer questions, and create real connections.
Local Oshawa author Morgan Forbes attended the event with her first novel, a hockey romance story, Reading the Play.
This was only her second time participating in a book event and she said there’s something special about meeting readers in person.
“Getting to see people come in and ask you about your book, what is it about, and then watching them become instantly intrigued or like want to know more and then actually picking it up and being like, I want to buy it,” she said. “It was life-altering.”
Forbes said events like this gives her another way to reach readers beyond social media. She plans to attend more local book fairs as her writing career grows.
Another local indie author, Natalie Bartley, was also part of the event with her latest novel, Remaking the Sorceress. Bartley, a Durham College graduate of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business program, has published 20 books over the last six years.
Bartley had done some events in the past but this was her first time doing a local one and she said it made her feel more connected to the community.
“I ended up seeing a few people that I knew, which was awesome,” she said.
Bartley said these events are valuable not just for meeting readers, but for networking and finding support. She said those connections help her grow on social media, since the authors she has become friends with help promote her work.
“Authors beside me who promote me as much as I promote them,” she said.
Markets Ontario reported a strong turnout, posting on Facebook that “Our November Book Lovers Event was our most successful one yet — it was non-stop busy from start to finish.”