The 20th Annual Bookmarks Festival 

By: Samantha Gill

Caption: Authors Rebecca Thorne and Kimberly Lemming discuss their books, with M.K. England moderating.

Photo Credit: Samantha Gill

On Sept. 25, 2025, Bookmarks kicked off their 20th Annual Festival of Books and Authors in Downtown Winston-Salem. The festival lasted throughout the weekend, with notable authors being featured. This included Rick Riordan, the author of the highly acclaimed “Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief”, who led the closing discussion. 

The Bookmarks festival is hosted by Bookmarks, a non-profit organization and bookstore in Downtown Winston-Salem. The main event took place on Saturday, Sept.  27. There were tents set up with authors signing novels, as well as panels taking place throughout different buildings in the downtown area. Most of the panels were free of charge, with exceptions for a select few ticketed events like the ones featuring Hoda Kotb and Rick Riordan. 

One panel included authors Rebecca Thorne and Kimberly Lemming and was moderated by author M.K. England. The panel was titled “Come Away With Me: Love in Other Worlds.” The authors discussed the genre of romantasy–a mash up of fantasy and romance. They both shared their publishing and writing experiences, leaving audiences with a better idea of the modern literary industry. 

I was able to have an honest discussion with Thorne, who is the New York Times bestselling author of “Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea.” She said that the most important thing about the writing industry is connections. She said that if one is interested in becoming a writer, they need to not be afraid to utilize any connections that they might have. She expressed her love for the Bookmarks event, saying that it was a great opportunity for writers and readers to make those vital connections. 

This four-day event was one filled with bookish joy and the festival is a highlight of the community in Winston-Salem. Throughout the year, Bookmarks also hosts several other events in collaboration with authors. These events invite the whole community to continue the spirit of the festival year-round for all book lovers.