Reader Nation is a multi-genre signing event hosted by Author Ventures LLC—the team behind Author Nation, the world's largest indie author conference.

With 200+ participating authors, Reader Nation is a celebration of storytelling in all its forms, across every genre.

In a world of endless digital noise and shrinking attention spans, we believe in the unmatched power of in-person connection. As fellow book lovers, we know there’s nothing better than bridging the space between the story and the storyteller—and we’re here to create those unforgettable “I can’t believe I just met them!” moments.

We also strive to uplift emerging authors—those still building their audience but overflowing with stories to tell. That moment of discovery might come while bonding over your favorite enemies-to-lovers arc during a DIY bookmark session, getting a personalized book rec from an author who just gets your taste, or being drawn in by the shimmer of foil and hand-lettered signage across the aisle.

That's the magic of in-person events: the story doesn't just exist on the page, it comes alive in a room full of people who love books as much as you do.

For authors—whether traditionally published, hybrid, or staunchly self-published—our goal is to help you build sustainable, creative, and financially independent careers on your own terms. Toward that mission, we developed The Signing Store: a centralized platform that eliminates the stress of shipping and inventory management. With POD pre-orders, customer data, and streamlined fulfillment, authors gain valuable insights that extend connections long after the tables are folded, and the last Sharpie runs dry.

We’re guided by a growing community of 3,000+ authors and readers who actively help shape every part of the Reader Nation experience. Your feedback fuels our commitment to making this event professional, welcoming, and meaningful for everyone involved. Please review our Conduct Code here to learn more. 

We’re always looking to improve the attendee experience. If you have suggestions, questions, authors you’d love to see, or want to get involved, reach out to us at hello@authorventuresllc.com. 

Your pre-orders are managed through thesigningstore.com.

On the site, you can:

• View all your purchases in one convenient place.
• Discover new authors tailored to your interests and recommendations from other readers.

Here’s how it works:

1. Visit TheSigningStore.com.
2. Create a reader account or log in to your existing account.
3. Browse and select books to pre-order.
4. At the event, pick up your books hassle-free at the author’s table where they will be waiting for you during the signing.

Pre-orders open August 1st.

Every attendee receives a free ticket, which provides entry to Friday's book signing and the option to add a VIP Swag Bag. All ticket holders will receive one free book and a standard tote bag to carry home your new books.

You’ll also have the option to customize your experience with à la carte add-ons like Thursday's Evening Keynote with James Patterson, as we get closer to the event!

Yes, we will have a FedEx table with 20- and 50-pound boxes ready to ship back your books. We are making it as simple as possible to come to the show, buy all your amazing goodies, and deliver them straight to your reading cave.

Yes, we have a group block at the Horseshoe Hotel & Casino. 

The room rate for 2025 in our block is $142 to $182, depending on the night. There is an additional $15 per day resort fee ($17.01 with tax). Reservations must be made by October 2, 2025, to receive the group rate. After this date, the rate will depend on hotel availability.

For instructions on booking your stay and our room block code, visit the link here.

Ticket Refunds:

• Reader tickets are fully refundable up to September 30th, 2025.
• After that date, the amount you paid will be automatically transferred to a ticket for the 2026 event.
• To request a refund or transfer, please email us at hello@authorventuresllc.com.

Pre-Order Refunds:

• Pre-orders for books managed through The Signing Store can be canceled and refunded up until the pre-order cutoff date of September 30th, 2025.
• After this date, the books will have already been paid for and produced. Refunds or alternative solutions will then be at the discretion of the individual author.
• To request a refund, please email us at hello@authorventuresllc.com.

We are here to help! Our team is equipped to assist with navigating the venue and escorting attendees to specific rooms as needed.

Accessibility Options:

• High-visibility wristbands will be available for attendees requiring assistance, allowing staff and volunteers to identify and support you easily.
• Reserved seating will be provided in accessible locations, including front-row or near-exit seats, during each session for those who need it.

If you have any questions, concerns, or specific accessibility requests, please email us at hello@authorventuresllc.com with any questions, concerns, or specific requests.

Please email us at hello@authorventuresllc.com with comments, questions, concerns.