JUNE 10 - The Making of a Novel: Albania Through Desiderium

Join us for a captivating literary evening with debut novelist Julie Furxhi, whose novel Desiderium has earned recognition as a longlisted title for Mslexia’s 2023 First Novel Competition and an Editor’s Choice selection by the Historical Novel Society.
In this immersive author talk, Julie will share the journey behind her writing. Offering insight into her creative path, the inspiration and evolution of Desiderium, and the rich cultural and historical threads of Albania that shape the novel’s world. Drawing from her own travels to many of the book’s real-life settings, Julie will bring the story to life with photographs, reflections on the landscape, and historical context that deepen the reading experience.
Desiderium weaves together the lives of three unforgettable women across generations, navigating grief, resilience, and transformation against the backdrop of Albania’s turbulent past. From rebellion in the early 20th century, to wartime resistance, to modern-day discovery, the novel explores how history lives on in the present and how the human heart endures.
Following the talk, stay for a Q&A session with Julie. Copies of Desiderium will be available for purchase, along with a book signing.
Guests will be treated to a sensory taste of Albanian culture: Albanian coffee along with homemade byrek and baklava lovingly prepared by the author herself.
Come for the story, stay for the conversation!
Wed, June 10, 6:00 – 7:30 PM
Doors Open at 5:30 PM.
Admission $10
Author Talk, Followed by a Q&A and Book Signing.
Albanian Style coffee served with homemade byrek and baklava.