Songbirds of Florence

Treat yourself to an afternoon of literature and lively conservation over a glass of wine in the stunning surrounds of a beautifully restored Ormondville homestead. Bestselling author Olivia Spooner will share the inspirations behind her work - including her latest novel, The Songbirds of Florence. In an engaging conversation with local author Anna Mackenzie, Olivia will offer insights into her writing and the stories that shape her novels. A must-attend event for book lovers!

Olivia Spooner is the writer of best-selling historical and contemporary fiction, including some delightful short stories. Her latest novel, The Songbirds of Florence, released in October 2024, follows the journey of the Tuis, a group of young New Zealand women serving overseas during World War II. 

Olivia holds a Master's in Creative Writing from Auckland University of Technology. She also owns her own independent bookstore, The Booklover Bookshop in Auckland, where she hosts the 'Booklover Banter' podcast, engaging with fellow authors and readers. She lives in Auckland with her husband and three children. 

Anna Mackenzie is a writer of contemporary, speculative and historic fiction for both adult and Young Adult readers. Her work, which includes nine novels to date, has earned her seven Notable Book Awards, an NZ Post Honour Award, Sir Julius Vogel Award and White Raven selection; in 2013 she was awarded a writing residency in Belgium by Belgian arts organisation Passa Porta. Anna also mentors emerging writers and teaches creative writing workshops, and has served as Vice-President of the New Zealand Society of Authors. She lives on a farm in Hawke’s Bay.

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