When I scroll through news apps or the internet, it seems the romance genre is receiving more attention from the media. But the attention isn’t the same type received just a few years ago. Bodice rippers that received sneers and snide comments are now talked about with respect the work deserves. And the fans don’t hide their books anymore but now proclaim themselves fans including the UK Prime Minister. It’s even a rumor Queen Camilla is a fan.
So, why the change? It may be because of money. That does always talk but it surely isn’t the only reason. I believe it’s because of the changes in society. The saying goes, “Behind every great man is a great woman.” These days, when you look beyond the man’s shoulder you won’t see the woman there, she’s beside him or even a step ahead, or perhaps, she’s all on her own. Women are now running corporations and their—our stories are being explored. Our entertainments that might have received a pat on the head from the boys or a isn’t that nice, dear now earn big bucks.
Women’s lives haven’t been the only change in society. The LGBTQIA community has also stepped into the light and fought for their place. Their stories are being told. No longer the angsty gay man hiding behind a fake marriage or a lesbian couple who are the focus of the male gaze. On the shelves, there are love stories featuring the LGBTQIA community such as Red, White, and Royal Blue and Written in the Stars (Just to name two of the most popular novels).
So, what does this mean? It means that those businesses producing outlets for our entertainment are paying attention. We are finding more stories to help us escape, relax and just have fun. And that means us romance readers will find more stories and more books to add to our favorite bookshelves.
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