The Romance Genre

There is no better time to talk about the genre of romance than Valentine’s Day, the day when people everywhere celebrate their love for that special someone in their lives. What is a romance story? Basically, it is a love story between two people.

What was the first romance novel? Pamela, written in 1740 by Samuel Richardson, focused almost entirely on courtship from the female protagonist’s perspective. If you want to find romance written even earlier than that, read The Song of Solomon in the Bible. Some believe the Song of Solomon is an allegory of the relationship between God and Israel. Others believe this book provides God’s teaching on marriage and sexual relationships. Yet others believe this book denotes an actual experience between Solomon and the Shulammite woman that expresses love and devotion. Whatever you believe, it is a beautiful love story.

Some popular romance authors at this present time are Barbara Taylor Bradford (A Woman of Substance, Hold the Dream), Catherine Coulter (Night Fire, Night Shadow), Victoria Holt(Mistress of Mellyn, Bride of Pendorric, Phyllis Whitney (Hunter’s Green, Lost Island), and Nora Roberts (Sweet Revenge, Brazen Virtue).

If you read any of the above novels, chances are you will discover that they have much more to offer than a bare-chested, muscular hunk chasing after a buxom damsel in distress. A lusty romance can take place amidst famous, or not so famous, historical events. Romance stories alone bore me, but throw in some danger, maybe a murder or two, and I’m hooked. For others, the excitement of a car chase, some treacherous mountain climbing, or political intrigue make a romance irresistible. Still, there are those who still love a lusty, steamy romance with nothing else going on to disturb the symphony of love unfolding before their very eyes.

Romantic suspense, historical romance, time travel romance, paranormal romance, contemporary romance, chick lit, young adult romance, inspirational romance, erotic romance and category romance – books about romance can be found for just about any reader today. What exactly are category romances? These popular books are the biggest sellers of any kind of romance and are published on a regular schedule,,usually monthly. Harlequin novels are good examples of category romances.

Sometimes the frustrations of life can keep us from truly appreciating that special someone that we have chosen to share our life with. This Valentine’s Day, may I suggest you and your significant other share a bottle or two of wine while reading a romantic story together. Be sure and choose a story that appeals to both of you. Choosing the right story to read together has the potential to be just as romantic as its reading. The entire book doesn't have to be read in one evening. Make your Valentine's celebration last and spread it out over days or weeks.