Ann Liang & Morgann Book in Conversation : Santa Barbara Literary Festival

Join bestselling author Ann Liang—the visionary voice behind A Song to Drown Rivers, I Am Not Jessica Chen, and Never Thought I’d End Up Here—for an in-depth conversation about her writing, her imaginative worlds, and the creative process that brings emotionally rich, genre-blending stories to life.

In conversation with Morgann Book, one of the world’s most influential BookTok creators, Liang will explore how she crafts unforgettable characters, builds immersive romantic and fantastical narratives, and weaves themes of identity, ambition, belonging, and transformation into her work. From lyrical prose to high-stakes emotional arcs, she’ll discuss her approach to voice, structure, pacing, and the delicate balance between romance, fantasy, and contemporary storytelling.

The discussion will also touch on Liang’s journey as an author, her evolution across genres, and how reader communities—both online and offline—shape the life of a book after publication.

Morgann Book is a creator and literary enthusiast with a deep passion for entertainment and storytelling. She shares insightful reviews, recommendations, and discussions that inspire readers around the world. In 2025, Morgann launched Bookish Media, a media and production company where great stories find their next chapter. As Chief Bookworm, Morgann leads all book curation and selection activity at Bookish Media, including for The Bookish Club, a global monthly book club.

Ann Liang is the New York Times, USA Today, and Indie bestselling author of critically acclaimed young adult and adult fiction. Her books have been sold in over twenty foreign territories. Her work has been featured on Good Morning America as a GMA Book Club pick, and on the Today show,Cosmopolitan, PEOPLE, Harper’s Bazaar, and more. Born in Beijing, she grew up traveling back and forth between China and Australia, but somehow ended up with an American accent. She now lives in Melbourne. You can find her on Instagram at @annliangwrites, or by visiting her website, annliang.com.

The Santa Barbara Literary Festival brings together readers and writers of every genre for a two day celebration of storytelling and inspiration. Engaging panels, enlightening workshops, pop-up events, and welcoming social gatherings, bring together established authors, emerging writers, and passionate readers in a uniquely intimate setting that fosters community centered around a shared love of the literary arts.