Explore why people are drawn to romance and why it has consistently been the best-selling genre for decades. Learn about the common stereotypes of the genre and how today's readers are subverting them. Panelists will share how reading romance makes them feel, their favorite books and tropes, and what they get from romance that other genres don't provide. Hear why influencers choose to share their passion for reading and romance on social media, and how they interact with the vibrant romance community.
This panel may feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
A compelling discussion with male authors writing romance. The panel will explore the importance of male perspectives in M/M stories, their individual journeys in carving out space in the genre, and how they began writing romance. Discover how male authors can offer fresh perspectives and challenge existing norms within the romance genre.
This panel may feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
Those Forking Fangirls Podcast w/ Julie Murphy: Smut + Spiciness - nerdy pop culture duo Christine Riccio and Natasha Polis chat all things smut and spice in the reading world with their gen z social media manager Chloe Laverson, and NYT bestselling author Julie Murphy. How much smut is too much? Is there such a thing? Why do we call it smut?! What’s your preferred spice level, and what does that say about you?
This panel may feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
Grab your favorite drink and join us to personalize your Romance Con swag bag plus more crafts! We’ll have a variety of craft supplies for you to choose from, as well as soft drinks and alcohol available for purchase.
Friday September 6, 2024 8:00pm - 11:00pm CDT
Ballroom AB
An important conversation on plus-size representation and body positivity in romance. Authors will confront and dismantle stereotypes and negative portrayals of plus-size individuals, exploring the impact of such representation on readers' self-esteem and body image. Discover current trends and shifts towards inclusivity in the genre, along with insights into crafting authentic and relatable plus-size characters. Learn about the research process and steps towards broader representation. The panel will also examine common plot points and themes, like the 'fat friend,' and showcase examples of positive representation in romance.
This panel may feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
This panel explores how mental health challenges contribute to character depth and growth, emphasizing how romantic partners can support each other through these struggles. Authors discuss the importance of challenging stigma and promoting mental health awareness within the genre. Exploring their research and consultations, panelists highlight the care involved in authentically writing experiences different from their own, and analyze intersections of mental health with identities such as race, gender, and sexuality. They showcase well-rounded characters navigating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and more, offering nuanced perspectives on mental health in romance.
This panel may feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
This panel will define kink, discuss its spectrum, and differentiate it from erotic romance, providing examples along the way. Hear how writing kink challenges societal taboos and norms about sexuality, and discover the research involved in creating authentic stories. Panelists will also discuss how they write kink in an educational and informative way for curious readers, addressing the importance of consent and safety in kink romance, and how kink enhances love plots and character development.
This panel will feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
