A romance-based panel where the authors discuss how much is too much, or if that’s even option. What is so important about romance and why women can’t get enough of it. Also, why some men may need to read it. Haha. Panelists are Elle Backenstoe, L.M. Whiteley, and Catriona Drexler; J.L. Beers moderates.
Caitriona Drexler brings readers through all the feels with her emotionally charged and perfectly spicy romance novels. A lifelong reader and dreamer, Caitriona found her true calling in the wake of a traumatic breakup, embracing the power of storytelling to bring to life stories that resonate with the heart. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, son, and two feline companions.
Elle Backenstoe is a self-published author from Eastern Pennsylvania. She writes fantasy and romance, often together. A former gifted student turned multi-hobbyist, she enjoys creating, organizing, and doom-scrolling until the revenge bedtime procrastination is satisfied. Elle survives on caffeine and early 2000s pop punk music, and still cherishes hot pink skulls like it’s the Myspace era. When she’s not home with her son and husband, you’ll find her at either the bookstore or her second home, the dance studio.
L.M. Whiteley. Birthday: May 5. Zodiac sign: Taurus. City: Philadelphia, PA. In a few words: I love a good love story. Bonus points if the man is obsessed and there’a touch of danger and homor. I’ve been writing since I was a little girl. I indie-published my first book, Eyes in the Shadows, in June 2025 and it is now a sompleted series. I write dark, steamy romance with guaranteed (but hard-won) happily-ever-afters. In my books you’ll find: Curvy women (yay representation!); Morally gray MMCs; Psychologically safe love (no cheating, low angst); Action/suspense plots; Mid to high heat.
J.L. Beers is a local romance author, mother, wife, and educator. In her free time she writes, reads, and spends time with her family. J.L. Beers is also the cofounder of A Bookish Affair Poconos, which is being renamed Prose in the Poconos.
