romance books

Against a pink background, a tan queen and a black king chess piece leans towards one another on a chess board with purple hearts in between them.

BOOK REVIEW: ‘Check & Mate’ by Ali Hazelwood

Beatriz Barros Felice, California State University, Northridge

The highs and lows of Ali Hazelwood's recently released novel, which marks her debut in the YA genre.…

December 16, 2023

In an article about Emily Henry's success, a pink and red illustration of a book shelf and two girls reading a book. The words "Emily Henry" in the upper lefthand corner and "Literary Star" in the bottom right hand.

Decoding What Made Emily Henry a Literary Star

Karla D. Galvan, The University of Texas at San Antonio

An exploration of what makes Emily Henry’s books appealing.…

October 24, 2023

in article about romance novels, a woman holding up a romance novels

Writing Romance Novels Is a Feminist Act

Aunna Beranek, Columbia College Chicago

The most empowering thing a woman can do is stay true to herself.…

August 31, 2022

In an article about romantic tropes, two people are shown in a drawing with a heart between them.

5 Top Romantic Tropes in Storytelling

Jordan Oulela, University of Texas at San Antonio

From love triangles to soulmates, the possibilities for creating engaging plots are endless.…

June 10, 2022

a photo of Laurell K. Hamilton book Jason

Laurell K. Hamilton Is Sci-Fi, Romance and Fantasy All Rolled Into One

Angelica Rovinski, Arcadia University

The paranormal writer might just be the perfect choice for someone looking for books including a variety of fantastical (and erotic) aspects.…

December 5, 2021

A romance BookTube live chat connects creators and viewers in discussions about their favorite novels and authors.

‘Chatting All Things Romance’ Shows Live Chats Are Still Important to BookTube

Arianna Taylor, University of Rochester

Sparking discussions about authors, tropes and book drama, PeaceLoveBooksxo's livestream connects and provides insight into the book community and those who participate in it.…

June 9, 2021

5 Women of Color That Are Pushing Boundaries in Romance Literature

Arianna Taylor, University of Rochester

Diverse representation in romantic fiction can reaffirm how the genre adds value to the literary community. …

May 10, 2021

multiple copies of the Bromance Book Club

‘The Bromance Book Club’ Is a Subversive New Kind of Romance Novel

Arianna Taylor, University of Rochester

From battling toxic masculinity to teaching about the power of Pinterest, Lisa Kay Adams strives to critique gender norms and the limits of the romance genre.…

February 28, 2021

An illustration for the novel Written in the Stars for an article about the book. (Illustration by Sonja Vasiljeva, San Jose State University)

‘Written in the Stars’ Is a Sapphic Rom-Com Worth Reading

Emma Watts, University of Arizona

Alexandria Bellefleur’s new novel is the perfect piece for readers who are looking for a cozy and sweet romance to spend their Friday night cuddled up on the couch with.…

February 17, 2021

‘The Kiss Quotient’ Is a Compelling Story of Love on the Autism Spectrum

Srishti Tyagi, Cornell University

Helen Hoang’s novel paints a rich portrait of an autistic heroine, captivating readers by avoiding one-dimensional stereotypes that have long persisted in media.…

October 5, 2020

How To Organize Your Books When Your Space Is Already Cluttered

Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

If you find yourself short on room, here are some ways to organize your literature collection without shelling out more money for extra bookcases.…

October 3, 2020

A photo of the cover of Every Other Weekend

‘Every Other Weekend’ Explores How Relationships Can Be a Refuge

Juliana Fujii, Biola University

The novel's heartbreaking exploration of divorce and loss allows its exquisite friendships and familial connections to take center stage.…

August 14, 2020

‘The Flatshare’ Proves Romance Can Have Emotions Beyond Falling in Love

Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

Beth O'Leary's debut novel, which features a very unusual living arrangement, makes the case for the genre as possessing real emotional depth.…

June 28, 2020

‘Lovely War’ Uses War and Ancient Myths To Depict 21st Century Racism

Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

Julie Berry mixes the gods of Ancient Greece with romance and World War I, all in a novel that portrays the violence of white supremacy. …

June 26, 2020

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romance books