Headlining in Las Vegas
Reader Nation 2025 Draws a Crowd
Reader Nation 2025—formerly the Reader Author Vegas Event, or RAVE—drew so many excited readers to the Paris Hotel and Casino that event leaders were forced to open the doors early in order to bring down the line.
Nearly two hundred authors set up their tables in the ballroom, arranged in rows according to genre and marked by themed backdrops designed by Peaceful Events. Around the edges of the space, participants also found a Reader’s Lounge, Narrator Showcase, and Quiet Room.
Although the signing floor was the main event, where readers had time to meet new and favorite authors, Reader Nation offered several other activities and opportunities for community. In the Reader’s Lounge, guests could get their books gift-wrapped, play board games, draw in coloring books, or take a chance on a Blind Date with a Book.
Soundbooth Theater hosted live readings with cozy seating, as well as a raffle in the Narrator Showcase. Participants were encouraged to play Bookish Bingo, getting squares signed by authors to earn tickets for the raffle. Awards included VIP tickets and hotel stays for 2026. VIP swag bag holders gained early access to the event.
Unfortunately, featured author James Patterson was unable to make the event due to illness, but three hundred readers who won the lottery for his signing were able to pick up their signed copies of his latest book, Disrupt Everything–And Win, at registration. Readers who backed the Reader Nation exclusive Romance anthology, Love Me in Vegas, on Kickstarter were also able to pick up their copies at the registration tables.
Over one thousand readers attended this workday event, and more are expected when Reader Nation moves to Saturday, November 14, in 2026. Next year’s keynote speaker, Andy Weir, the best-selling author of The Martian and Project Hail Mary, is sure to draw a crowd.
Jenn Lessmann
