Happy BLOGMAS day 6!
If you’re still here, then congratulations. I’m surprised I’m still here honestly. My brand is starting something and not finishing it. It’s only downhill from here. Buckle up.
I spent a very long time criticizing the romance genre, and I rightfully apologize. There is so much to learn and so much fun to have with this genre. There are different branches you can swing on—erotica, contemporary, women’s fiction, paranormal, historical/regency, and the list goes on. Romance is my second favorite genre aside from historical fiction. I will admit that I have not read all the sub genres listed above, but I intend to do a little dabbling as I grow comfortable with the genre.
It exists for enjoyment and entertainment.
There’s nothing wrong with picking up a book that isn’t meant to be studied, tabbed, and critiqued. You can escape from whatever you’re going through and experience some sort of happy ending. If you’re tired and work a full-time job, grab a romance. Do you have kids? Pick up a romance before bed. Do you just want to broaden your reading horizons? Read a romance novel. No extreme thinking involved. Just read them for enjoyment. It’s okay to read a book with a cheesy happy ending!
Diversity. Diversity. Diversity.
Romance doesn’t shy away from all types of ethnicities, sexual orientations, ages (obviously being of age in a romance book is extremely necessary!). Romance books in the last few years have really stepped up their diversity game! You can find anything now. There are still wonderful books without extreme diversity, but I know that diversity is a hot commodity right now. This genre is your oyster!
Celebration of women.
I know this is a very touchy topic, so I won’t dive too far into it. I’m not trying to sway anyone from their beliefs/opinions. This is just in a general sense. I believe any gender should be celebrated—obviously—but it’s nice to get new perspectives from your own gender. In my case, it’s a celebration of women. I think this reason is geared more toward the old lady romance novels. Today’s romance books celebrate everyone. I just wanted to include this anyway.
Open to interpretation.
Do you ever watch a movie and see an actor/actress who doesn’t fit the bill of who you saw in your head? Well, I’m here to tell you that romance novels won’t do that. Yes, they give descriptions but they won’t typically give you every little detail and flaw. You can create that perfect human being. This will also help you use your imagination. It’s often hard to be creative when everyone has already created it e.g. movies.
Learning from their mistakes.
The characters in romance novels tend to be dramatic, therefore decisions are made irrationally. They typically end happily, meaning said problems get solved. You won’t learn from mistakes in every romance novel you read. There are some that you can really take a page from. No pun intended? I think if you’re new to the dating scene, romance novels would be a good place to start. Don’t do exactly as they do though. Gavin did that in The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay Adams, and it didn’t work. Just be observant and understand what’s realistic and what’s not. I don’t think there is much more to explain for this one.
– Disclaimer –
I’m not saying that all romance novels are amazing. Yes, there are a ton out there that misrepresent the genre, but you just can’t focus on those. I know this genre won’t be for everyone, but I think it’s worth a shot. These are my opinions, so if you hate romance, then that is 100% okay.
Genre Spotlight | Historical Fiction
What’s your favorite genre?
If you enjoyed this, then give it a like and follow my blog. Be respectful and happy reading!
Instagram | Goodreads | Twitter
passionatelyperusing.wordpress.com 
I’m a mood and seasonal reader but I also read all over the place. I enjoy thrillers, fantasy, and romance mostly, but I love other genres too. These are just what I typically gravitate towards when I’m picking up my next read.
LikeLiked by 1 person