Four states, four sold out crowds, seven authors and over 850 fans made for an incredible two weeks that we will never forget!
From July 21st – July 31st, Penguin Random House Australia (PRH AU) hosted seven incredible authors from across Australia in a four-state celebration of all things fantasy!
The four sold-out events in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Hobart included conversations and panels featuring Lynette Noni, Lauren Jackson, Sophie Clark, Keshe Chow, Lyndall Clipstone, Lily Crozier and Bronte-Marie Wesson. Upon arrival, attendees received a Penguin Fantasy Fest superproof containing snippets of some of the best local fantasy books of this year and next, including an exclusive excerpt from Lynette Noni’s new series, Shadow Reaper.
As a group, our authors debated their favourite tropes, spoke about crafting stories based on traditional fairytales and the differences between writing YA versus adult fantasy. A fan favourite was the discussion on writing about things that scare you to help drive the plot (including an analysis of why people should fear mirrors more!) and whether our authors like to plot or pants (write as they go)!
To conclude the panels, PRH AU gave a sneak peak of the 2026 fantasy lineup, allowing readers an exclusive glimpse into the books that will become their future obsessions.
The events finished on a high, with readers given the opportunity to purchase signed books from the authors before meeting them for a photo.
Penguin Fantasy Fest 2025 in photos and videos
Check out some of the hottest YA books in stores now, from epic romantasy to sweet, unexpected romance.
Find out where you can hear Lynette Noni speak about her upcoming book, Wandering Wild.
Cruel is the Light doesn’t come out until January 2025, but readers are already raving about it.
Check out some of the best YA books coming in 2025.
Check out the YA romantasy books Penguin employees are loving.
Take this fun quiz to figure out which fantasy book you should reach for next.
The inaugural Penguin Fantasy Fest was a wonderful evening for all. Learn about the author panel, see photos of the event and find out how to be notified of future events.
We’ve found them for you: the 8 fantasy novels you simply need to add to your TBR!
Check out the Penguin Random House books that have been shortlisted for the ABIAs in 2025. The winners will be announced on 7 May 2025.
Plus, find out which fictional world she’d like to live in and why you should befriend fellow writers.