While the rest of the world weeps, romance readers sigh - and buy. The Associated Press reported that sales of romance novels continue to rise despite tough economic times.
No real surprise there. Romance has a loyal following, and for good reason. Romance authors are passionate about their craft and their stories.
The range of possibilities extends from YA to inspirational to paranormal to mystery to speculative/scifi - virtually encompassing every other literary genre. With a twist - you know the payoff at the end. The HEA (happy ever after) will make you feel good. And while romance readers also appreciate the thrill along the way, they're looking for that happy ending. The world may be falling down outside, but the Hero and Heroine will find true happiness.
And yes, probably tumble in the hay a few times. Ian McEwan can write a graphic sex scene and it's high literary art. Romance tends to take a few on the chin for it, though.
I've also found the romance writing community an amazingly supportive group. Not that writers in general aren't supportive of one another, but it's especially so in romance. I'm relatively new to the genre, but have been having a blast. I write in a few other genres: women's fiction and mainstream, urban fantasy and an attempt at literary (though the end result is probably more mainstream). The point is to keep at it. Experiment.
As Michelangelo said at 87 years of age, I am still learning. And I intend never to stop. When you no longer reach for something new, excellence will be out of your grasp. I may never fully grasp it, but the important thing is to never stop trying.
