Ottawa Author Takes Canadian Fiction Into Her Own Hands
Ottawa is home to a growing wave of authors who are learning that writing the book is only half the battle — and local writer N.P. Thompson knows that better than most. After navigating the increasingly complex world of book marketing on her own, Thompson is channelling those hard-won lessons into something that could benefit Canadian fiction writers across the country: an online book festival built by authors, for authors.
As major publishers continue to roll back their marketing budgets, writers are finding themselves responsible for everything from social media campaigns to podcast tours to building their own reader communities. It's a steep learning curve, and for many talented storytellers, the business side of writing can feel overwhelming.
A Festival Born from Necessity
Thompson's festival is designed to close that gap. By bringing together Canadian fiction writers in an accessible online format, the event offers both visibility for authors and a curated discovery experience for readers who want to support homegrown talent.
The online format isn't just a practical choice — it's a deliberate one. Removing geographic barriers means that a reader in Timmins can discover an Ottawa novelist just as easily as someone browsing a Westboro bookshop. For Canadian fiction, which often struggles to compete for shelf space against big-budget American titles, that kind of reach matters.
The Author-Entrepreneur Reality
Thompson has spoken openly about the lessons she's learned on her own publishing journey — lessons that aren't typically taught in MFA programs or writing workshops. Things like building an email list, pitching yourself to media, understanding your readership, and making the most of limited promotional windows.
The festival reflects a broader shift happening across the Canadian literary world. Authors are increasingly treating their writing careers the way a small business owner might: with strategy, community-building, and a long game in mind. Ottawa's creative community, already rich with literary talent, is well-positioned to lead that conversation.
Why This Matters for Canadian Readers
For book lovers, the festival is an opportunity to discover voices that might otherwise get lost in the noise. Canadian fiction — especially literary fiction and genre work from writers outside Toronto's publishing hub — often doesn't get the promotional push it deserves. Events like this one help level the playing field.
It's also a reminder that supporting local authors isn't just a feel-good gesture. It directly sustains the kind of storytelling that reflects Canadian life, history, and identity back to its readers.
Thompson's initiative joins a growing ecosystem of author-led programming in Ottawa and beyond, from independent bookshop events to literary podcasts to social media reading communities.
Whether you're a devoted fiction reader or a writer looking to sharpen your own marketing instincts, this is one Ottawa-born project worth keeping an eye on.
Source: Ottawa Business Journal — Ottawa author launches online book festival to give Canadian fiction writers a boost