Atlanta Set to Host First Black Romance Book Festival in 2025
Residents and visitors to Atlanta, Georgia, are eagerly anticipating an event that aims to celebrate and showcase the diverse narratives of Black romance authors. The first-ever Black Romance Book Festival is scheduled to take place in the city from May 30 to June 1, 2025.
About the Founder and Event
Atlanta-based author Lauren Lacey, known for weaving beautiful tales of Black love since 2023, is the creative mind behind the event. Lacey conceived the idea for the festival upon observing at a different book festival that Black authors were not receiving the attention they deserved due to the event not sufficiently targeting their audience. The concept for the Black Romance Book Festival was birthed from Lacey’s desire to create a platform where Black authors can connect with their target readers and be recognized for their works.
Event Highlights and Participants
The festival’s lineup boasts over 105 independently and traditionally published authors, a number achieved through consistent outreach and promotion. Amongst them is New York Times bestselling author Kennedy Ryan, whose announcement generated immense excitement.
Event participants can look forward to panel sessions, all-day book signings, vendor booths, a reading lounge, and entertaining programs such as a historical fiction decades dance party and a rom-comedian night. Prominent book clubs and book influencers, who continue to play a pivotal role in promoting Black authors, will also be in attendance to host these activities.
Impact of the Pandemic on the Book Industry
Since the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, there has been a notable upsurge in recreational reading among U.S. consumers. The birth of BookTok, along with recommendations from readers via other social media platforms, has particularly highlighted the works of Black authors.
Dispelling Stereotypes and Promoting Diversity
The festival aims to dispel stereotypes that Black authors are limited to certain genres. Lacey is determined to showcase the vast array of narratives that Black authors are bringing to the forefront within the romance sector, covering a broad spectrum from paranormal to contemporary, fantasy to suspense, and much more.
In response to the festival, Lacey said, “We want to remember why we’re doing this, and we don’t want our space to be convoluted or tainted in any way. We’ve been rejected and neglected and dismissed but not anymore.”
For more information on the festival and to see the list of confirmed authors, visit the official website at Blackromancebookfestival.com. Limited tickets are still available.
