30th September 2025 – Sobo: Sommelier – Southbourne
This September, join us for a thoughtful and entertaining conversation with a panel of romance authors exploring the craft, challenges, and changing landscape of romantic fiction.
Our panel will be hosted by:
Nikki Moore/Ella Allbright – Nikki is a multi-published, award-nominated romance author, writing as Nikki Moore and Ella Allbright, primarily for HarperCollins. Her last release was The Last Charm and she is a manuscript reader for the Romantic Novelists’ Association New Writers’ Scheme.
With:
Kathleen McGurl – bestselling author of dual timeline novels that blend historical intrigue with modern-day stories, including The Forgotten Gift and The Lost Sister.
Alice G. May – contemporary and historical romance author whose work focuses on relationships, self-discovery, and navigating life’s turning points.
Joanna Knowles – Lost and Found in Venice is Joanna’s second published novel with Orion Fiction. She is currently working on her third novel which takes place at the top of a volcano.
🎤 What to Expect:
We’ll explore what it means to write compelling relationship-driven fiction today — including audience expectations, tropes vs. originality, and the reality of writing romance in a changing publishing world. Whether you’re a reader, writer, or curious about the genre, this panel offers valuable insight and lively discussion.
🕰 Evening Schedule:
- 6:30pm – Networking & drinks
- 7:00–8:00pm – Panel discussion
- 8:00pm onwards – Informal networking and time to chat with the authors
Booking is essential.
