A discussion on how contemporary movements like #MeToo and societal changes have transformed the portrayal of consent and safe sex, moving away from the "bodice ripping days." Learn how the authors write consent and safe sex scenes that are both responsible and sexy, and explore the potential of romance novels to educate readers about healthy sexual relationships. This panel will also address subverting societal expectations by embracing sex positivity, including sex work, sex toys, and pornography, and the unique challenges and opportunities of portraying safe sex and consent in LGBTQ+ and non-heteronormative relationships.
This panel will feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
Join a panel of authors as they discuss creating physical intimacy without explicit sex scenes, emphasizing pacing and tension. Attendees will learn how off-page steam can foster anticipation, emotional intimacy, and engage reader imagination. The panel will explore the intersection of culture and ethnicity in 'chaste' love stories, and examine the popularity of closed door romances despite the prevailing pro-steam trend on platforms like BookTok. Additionally, the panel will address the challenges and opportunities of abstaining from writing sex scenes, offering insights into alternative methods to advance the plot and deepen connections between main characters.
This panel may feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
A conversation about why books about chefs, restaurants, and cooking are so popular and what makes them appealing. Discover the importance of food in society, from eating on dates to family meals, and how food and cooking symbolize intimacy and sensuality. Panelists will examine how characters' relationships with food reflect their personalities, backgrounds, and emotions, and the intersection of culture, ethnicity, and cuisine. Learn how food contributes to themes of nourishment, intimacy, and cultural exploration in romantic narratives.
This panel may feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
What sets erotic fiction apart from kink and traditional sex scenes? The authors will explore how sexual tension drives the plot and provides opportunities for character growth. Hear about the research that goes into crafting these narratives and learn how authors balance sensuality with emotional depth.
This panel will feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
This panel will explore why the romance genre often skews younger and highlight the importance of featuring protagonists in their 30s and 40s. Panelists will address the challenges and opportunities in portraying characters with richer life and love experiences, and how these stories can subvert traditional conventions. They will also delve into the portrayal of sexuality and intimacy when older protagonists take center stage. Discover how these narratives bring a fresh and nuanced perspective to romantic fiction.
This panel may feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
Explore the intricacies of researching and potentially rewriting history, the opportunities to subvert gender stereotypes, and the importance of racial and ethnic representation. Discover the evolving landscape of the genre, including increased representation across different time periods and locations, as well as common tropes and themes. Learn about the unique challenges and opportunities that come with crafting love stories set in the past.
This panel may feature topics and themes that may not be suitable for guests under 18.
