Local romance novel readers and writers discuss what they love about the genre.

Romance novels as a genre net over 20 million dollars every year. And yet, this genre remains overlooked and underappreciated. At worst, readers feel embarrassed for enjoying romance novels and some say they "wouldn't be caught dead" reading a romance novel.

Join this panel of local romance novelists Marie Harte and Sarah Smith, along with community readers Rodrigo Gaspar-Barajas, Jennie Gordon, and Rachel Wiley-Bard as they discuss: how to renew a love for romance novels, new trends in the genre, the pitfalls of writing and reading romance novels, and some of their favorite reads from all facets and sub-genres.

Julie Swearingen, from Roundabout Books, will moderate. Books will be available for signing and sale following the event.

Award-winning author Marie Harte has been writing professionally since 2005. She’s both a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author and has written over 110 books and counting. Marie writes books with heat and humor. Marie currently lives in Central Oregon with her family. There’s nothing she likes more than finding a good book to read and a great cup of coffee to drink.

Sarah Smith is a copywriter-turned-author who wants to make the world a lovelier place, one kissing story at a time. Her love of romance began when she was eight and she discovered her auntie's stash of romance novels. She's been hooked ever since. When she's not writing, you can find her hiking, eating chocolate, and perfecting her lumpia recipe. She lives in Bend, Oregon, with her husband and adorable cat, Salem.

Rodrigo Gaspar-Barajas is one of Deschutes Public Library's Latino Services Coordinators.

Jennie Gordon works with Deschutes Public Library in Technical Services and was one of the team members spearheading the new Romance Sections featured at every library across the county.

Rachel Wiley-Bard writes the fantasy she wants to read: queer and complicated. Ask her about genre tropes, history, and world-building at your own risk.


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