Since today is Valentine’s Day, and since I’m preparing to discuss “the conventions of mysteries vs. romances” with a crime writer, my mind is full of all-things-romance. And I would love your help!
Although romance novels (and the people who write or read them) are sometimes scoffed at, romance has long been the bestselling fiction genre, and that trend shows every sign of continuing. According to BookScan data, sales of romance novels grew 41% in 2021 and sold even more in 2022.
That’s great news for romance authors and readers alike. And a good reminder that today—or any day—is a great time to celebrate romance!
Now, I’m hoping you can help me prepare for this upcoming discussion. Here is a quick attempt to list the basic elements or conventions that romances should include:
- A likeable, dimensional heroine
- An attractive, interesting hero
- The hero and heroine meet early on and are together often
- Their attraction goes beyond the physical
- The love story is key to the novel
- The hero and heroine face believable obstacles to their future happiness
- The characters experience a satisfying emotional and/or spiritual journey with growth or change
- A happily-ever-after ending
What did I miss? What would you add or change?
I’d also love to know if you’ve read any wonderful romances lately. If not, perhaps it’s time to treat yourself to a new romance novel, or ask your sweetheart to do so. 😊
Here’s the one I recently bought (My Phony Valentine by Courtney Walsh), which seemed appropriate to include in today’s post.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
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The list you’ve included is great. My favorite genres are historical fiction, romance, and mystery, which fortunately mix well together. I have read all of your books except the recent release, which I am anxious to delve into. Your upcoming discussion sounds very interesting and exciting. One of the things I love about your books is there always seems to be a mystery contained in the story. I can go back to an earlier book, The Silent Governess, as well as mention favorites, The Dancing Master and The Painter’s Daughter that you have pictured above – all very exciting to read.
I know Becky Wade tries to include a mystery in her books also, which adds to the romance – example, her Bradford Sisters series, and her new one recently released set in Maine (a favorite vacation spot), which I am looking forward to. Currently, I am about to finish Roseanna White’s Yesterday’s Tides. Fortunately, there are so many wonderful books to choose from. I am grateful to all of the talented authors who provide such amazing stories!
Thank you so much, Betty. I (and many other authors) are so thankful for readers like you! Appreciate you!
It’s so encouraging to see the enduring (and growing) popularity of romance novels. As a romance reader/writer I completely understand this genre’s appeal. It’s my all time favorite!
I think romance novels include romantic conflict (a reason why the H/H can’t immediately and easily fall for each other) which maybe falls under this point –> “The hero and heroine face believable obstacles to their future happiness”.
I think romance novels also take the reader on an emotional journey. So, the stock-in-trade of a mystery writer might be plot questions (Who done it?) that evoke a feeling of suspense. But the stock-in-trade for a romance writer might be relationship questions (How will they get together?) that evoke emotions. A good romance makes us FEEL things with the characters — worry, love, protectiveness, vulnerability, jealousy, doubt, heartbreak, courage, hope.
Wonderfully said and very helpful. Thank you so much, Becky!