by Kelly Burkett, Executive Assistant to the Dean, University Libraries
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction Kate Quinn visited Appalachian State University on Thursday, September 17, 2026, presenting to a welcoming crowd of approximately 500 attendees. The event marked the 20th Belk Distinguished Lecture hosted by University Libraries, celebrating an important milestone in the lecture series and its continued tradition of bringing accomplished authors and thought leaders to the Appalachian State community.
The evening provided Appalachian State students, faculty, staff, and community members with an opportunity to connect with an accomplished author and gain insight into the research, writing, and storytelling behind Quinn’s popular historical fiction. The strong attendance and enthusiastic feedback demonstrated the community’s continued interest in opportunities to engage with authors and experience their work beyond the pages of their books. A short Q and A session followed with questions collected from the audience.
Following the lecture, Quinn stayed to sign books for attendees. The Campus Store was also on hand with pre-signed copies of her books available for purchase, giving guests an opportunity to take home a signed book from the evening.
The enthusiastic response from attendees reflected the success of the event. In an anonymous feedback survey sent to registered guests, attendees shared their appreciation for both Quinn’s engaging presentation and the opportunity to hear directly from a bestselling author:
“Kate was very awesome and I just really enjoyed her lecture and being able to have a few minutes to chat with her.”
“She is a dynamic writer and speaker. Just because someone is a good writer doesn’t mean they are a good speaker. Kate Quinn is both.”
“It was a delightful and fun event, then when Kate presented, I was spellbound. I enjoyed her books so much, I bought two more.”
“I was amazed at the mentality of Kate Quinn. What a mind!!!”
“Thank you for opening this lecture to the public, it was a wonderful event.”
Appalachian State University Libraries is grateful to Kate Quinn and everyone who helped make this memorable evening possible.
From her website: Kate Quinn is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction. A native of southern California, she attended Boston University where she earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Classical Voice. She has written four novels in the Empress of Rome Saga, and two books in the Italian Renaissance, before turning to the 20th century with “The Alice Network”, “The Huntress,” “The Rose Code,” “The Diamond Eye,” and “The Briar Club.” She is also a co-author in several collaborative novels including “The Phoenix Crown” with Janie Chang and “Ribbons of Scarlet” with Stephanie Dray, Laura Kamoie, Eliza Knight, Sophie Perinot, and Heather Webb. “The Astral Library” is her first foray into magical realism. Kate and her husband now live in Maryland with their rescue dogs.