Featured Speakers

Keynote Speaker: Cathy Maxwell

New York Times best-selling author Cathy Maxwell embraces writing romance as a way to express her belief that “loving well is the greatest adventure of all,” and to explore her fascination with the Regency period. Maxwell began her career in 1991 and is the author of 26 novels and 4 novellas set in the early 1800s. Her latest novel is The Scottish Witch.

Awards Luncheon Speaker: Kristan Higgins 

RITA award-winning and best-selling author Kristan Higgins writes humorous contemporary romances that pull at readers’ heartstrings. She loves to write books about relationships “since the search for love and security is one of the driving forces of life.” Higgins divides her time between her home in Connecticut and summers on Cape Cod. She is the mother of two kids, the wife of a brave firefighter, and a devoted Ben & Jerry's fan.

Librarians' Day Luncheon Speaker: Jill Shalvis  

Bestseller Jill Shalvis is the award-winning author of more than four dozen romance novels, including her upcoming sexy contemporary novel It Had to Be You. The RITA and three-time National Readers Choice award-winning author makes her home near Lake Tahoe.

Awards Ceremony Emcee: Christie Craig  

Christie Craig is an award-winning, multipublished writer, photo journalist, motivational speaker, and writing teacher. A Golden Heart finalist, and a finalist in more than 50 RWA-sponsored contests, she has gained a well-deserved reputation for writing romance fiction that has both witty humor and a suspenseful, sexy tone. Craig also writes young-adult paranormal romance as C.C. Hunter.