In this episode of Full of Words, Sue Kennedy and CJ are joined by award-winning author and storyteller Reenita Hora to explore how words shape identity, culture, and connection. From her early days in journalism to crafting historical fiction, rom-coms, and fantasy, Reenita shares how she intentionally weaves the South Asian experience into every genre she touches—whether through books, screenplays, podcasts, or children's stories.

She reflects on leaving the corporate world during the pandemic to pursue her creative work full-time, revealing the joys and challenges of writing across mediums. Reenita also unpacks the power of language—blending English with South Asian dialects—and the unique approaches needed for books, audio scripts, and visual storytelling.

🎁 Special Giveaway: Reenita is giving away two copies of Vermilion Harvest—one Indian edition and one U.S. edition. Tune in for how to enter and why both covers have sparked conversation.

Highlights:

• (00:25) – How Reenita Hora has always used storytelling as a throughline in her diverse career across journalism, marketing, and fiction.
• (02:30) – Why she left her corporate role mid-pandemic to focus fully on her creative projects — a bold leap into full-time writing.
• (07:32) – How she authentically reflects the South Asian experience by blending Hindi and English in her writing.
• (12:03) – Why she used Jane Austen-inspired banter in Vermilion Harvest to create historically accurate and charming dialogue.
• (21:18) – What happens when a teen decides to play matchmaker for her own mom — welcome to Operation Mom.
• (28:32) – What she thinks of genre rules in publishing — and how ignoring them led to her biggest win yet.
• (34:18) – What she values most as a writer: honest reader feedback, connection, and building stories with community.

Sue Kennedy Links:

Website:authoracademy.com.au

LinkedIn:Sue Kennedy Book Coaching Expert

Facebook:
http://facebook.com/TheNo1AuthorAcademy
https://www.facebook.com/groups/authoracademycollective

Twitter: thauthoracademy

Email:sue@authoracademy.com.au

Booking Link: https://suekennedy.as.me/complimentarysession

Healing with Art 2024 - Creativity for Self-Care Course

Catherine James Links:

Website:catherinejames.au

LinkedIn:Catherine (CJ) James

Facebook:
Catherine James Creative
https://www.facebook.com/groups/doinitdaily/

Instagram:@catherinejamescreative

Email: cj@catherinejamescreative.com.au

Booking Link: https://catherinejames.au/contact

Guest Links:
Website: www.reenita.com
IG: reenita_storyteller
X: reenita_story