Hi, all! Jennifer here.
As a romance reader as well as a writer I have noticed certain trends in popular romance books recently.
Not saying these trends are necessarily bad. Just… interesting. Like people are interesting. You just never really know how the human brain ticks and what readers will suddenly be clamoring for. If I did know, I’d sell the secret and probably retire to the Amalfi coast somewhere.
But I digress…
However, I do have to say that some of these trends–not all–do have me scratching my head. But that’s just me. I might be old-fashioned. Curious to know what I’ve seen? Let me put you out of your misery.
Romance Novel Trends Jennifer’s Seen Within the Last Few Months:
- Lots of “Daddy” titles. Really? Yup. Not sure I want to touch this subject but I’m pretty sure these romances are NOT incestuous just dealing with um, “daddies” of some nature. 🙂
I’m sure they are great books–and obviously popular. It just makes this little romance reader go:
2. Lots of Billionaire romances. Well, gee, this trend isn’t so hard to understand. I mean, who doesn’t fantasize about a handsome, rich (crazy rich) guy after you. It’s a dream. However… who knew there were so many in the world?
3. More Women’s Fiction than Straight Up Romance books. This one I find most interesting. A lot more of your best selling romance authors seem to be making this move to women’s fiction with romance, instead of pure romance. Are readers looking for more than romance? I don’t know. But it’s an interesting one to watch for sure.
4. Lots of Virgins. Wow. It’s nice so many characters seem to be saving themselves for that special someone. (Usually the Billionaire in #2) I haven’t seen this trend since…the 80’s? I guess if bell-bottom jeans can make a comeback so can virgin 30 year-olds. 🙂
That’s my observations anyway.
What about you? Any trends you’ve seen in romance novels? What do you think of the trends I mentioned?
Until next time, HAPPY READING!
Jennifer
xoxo
About Jennifer Shirk
Jennifer Shirk is a USA Today bestselling sweet romance author for Montlake and Entangled Publishing who also happens to be a mom, pharmacist, Red Sox fan, P90x grad, and overall nice person. Check out her latest sweet romance: CATCH HIM IF YOU CAN
