Studying the Sultry Genre of Romance Novels

Step into the swoon-worthy world of romance novels as we celebrate the genre in all its forms. From classic love stories to today’s bestsellers, we’ll explore how romance has evolved through the ages — reflecting changing social norms, desires, ideas about love and a lot more.

Whether you’re a longtime romance reader or just curious about what makes these stories irresistible, this session offers a thoughtful and fun look at the genre’s enduring appeal.

We’ll also dive into beloved (and debated) romance tropes, why they work, and how authors reinvent them for modern audiences. Expect lively discussion, literary history, and plenty of bookish enthusiasm as we unpack what makes a romance novel satisfying, meaningful, and impossible to put down.

Stef Ferrari is a New York Times bestselling author, and an Emmy-winning writer, producer, and artist. Her forthcoming debut novel is a queer YA rom-com set in Brooklyn amid the magic of the holiday season. As a journalist, she’s a contributing writer to publications including The New York Times, and covers her greatest obsession: women’s sports.