R. R. Virdi (he/him)

Abby Baker

R.R. Virdi is a two-time Dragon Award finalist, Nebula Award finalist, and USA Today Bestselling author. He is the author of the urban fantasy series The Grave Report and The Books of Winter, as well as the epic fantasy novels "The First Binding" and "The Doors of Midnight." His love of classic cars drove him to work in the automotive industry for many years before he realized he’d do a better job of maintaining his passion if he stayed away from customers. He was born and raised in Northern Virginia and is a first generation Indian-American with all the baggage that comes with. He's offended a long list of incalculable ancestors by choosing to drop out of college and not pursue one of three pre-destined careers: lawyer, doctor, or engineer. Instead, he decided to chase his dream of being an author. His family is still coping with this decision a decade later. He expects them to come around in another fifteen to twenty years.

Awards: Webster Award, 2x dragon award finalist, nebula award finalist

Communities: Asian American, South Asian/Indian specifically

The Storyteller's Magic

Join master storytellers Suyi Davies Okungbowa, T. Kingfisher and R.R. Virdi as they explore the craft of weaving tales that capture readers' imaginations. From building immersive worlds to creating unforgettable characters, discover the techniques these writers use to infuse their narratives.

Koffler Room 218 (Seats 142, Wheelchair accessible)  
Sat, Mar 15, 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Sci-Fi / Fantasy / Horror
Signing area: Sales & Signing Area - UA Campus Store Tent (on Mall) (following presentation)  

Panelists: Suyi Davies Okungbowa, T. Kingfisher, R. Virdi
Moderator: Christine Russell

Forging Infinite Realms

Mai Corland, Kel Kade, Seanan McGuire and R. R. Virdi will discuss how they craft complex magical systems, rich histories, and interconnected realms that capture readers' imaginations. We will learn about the challenges of writing epic fantasy series and explore how they create unique magical universes.

Student Union Kachina (Seats 100)  
Sun, Mar 16, 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Sci-Fi / Fantasy / Horror
Signing area: Sales & Signing Area - UA Campus Store Tent (on Mall) (following presentation)  

Panelists: Mai Corland, Kel Kade, Seanan McGuire, R. Virdi
Moderator: Victoria Salajko

Books:

The Doors of Midnight

Sci-Fi / Fantasy / Horror
Tor Publishing Group
August 2024
ISBN 9781250796189
832 pages

The First Binding

Sci-Fi / Fantasy / Horror
Tor Publishing Group
September 2023
ISBN 9781250796240
832 pages