Author Talk: Why Romance Matters with Iman Hariri-Kia and Upasna Barath

​Why Romance Matters: In Conversation with Iman Hariri-Kia and Upasna Barath

​Join Lit Club NYC for a special author conversation with Iman Hariri-Kia and Upasna Barath exploring the cultural power and enduring value of romance novels.

​Together, we’ll discuss their work Female Fantasy: A Novel and Comedic Timing—and zoom out to consider what the romance genre gives us more broadly. Why do romance stories resonate so deeply? What emotional, political, and imaginative work do they do? And why does it matter that these stories continue to be written, shared, and taken seriously?

​This conversation will examine romance not as escapism alone, but as a genre that offers insight into desire, agency, pleasure, healing, and the ways we imagine love and belonging.

​Expect a thoughtful, lively discussion about storytelling, craft, and why romance remains one of the most powerful—and misunderstood—genres in contemporary literature.

​🎟️ Ticket includes cocktail and guided programming

​📚 Books will be available for purchase on-site.

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