Candice Lim and Slate senior editor Rebecca Onion discuss the growing popularity of romance novels, exploring the genre's lack of diversity, changing trends, and the impact of the internet. They also touch on preferences for romance novels, the significance of sex scenes, and a scandal involving the scapegoating of a romance novel creator. The podcast sheds light on the positive aspects of expressing thirst for romance heroes and celebrities.
Romance novels have experienced significant growth, becoming the fastest-growing category of fiction and generating over $1.4 billion in sales revenue.
The genre of romance novels has faced criticism for its lack of diversity and representation in authors and characters, but efforts are being made to address these limitations and create more inclusive stories.
Deep dives
The Popularity and Evolution of Romance Novels
Romance novels have gained popularity, with sales reaching $1.4 billion and selling 39 million copies in 2023. The genre has evolved, embracing diversity and moving away from conventional covers. Despite some stigma, readers have passionately embraced romance novels and formed a vibrant community.
The Flaws and Barriers in the Romance Genre
Romance novels, while beloved by many, have flaws in terms of diversity and representation. The genre has been criticized for lacking diversity in authors and characters, including race, gender, sexuality, neurodivergence, and class. Despite these issues, there are efforts to address the limitations and create more inclusive stories.
The Appeal and Intimacy of Romance Novels
Romance novels provide a unique reading experience, allowing readers to explore intimate relationships and desire. While some may dismiss the genre as purely escapist entertainment, the emotional depth and character development in romance novels make them engaging and immersive.
The Debate Surrounding Thirst and Fantasy in Romance Novels
The rise of Gen Z readers and book talk has brought a new wave of enthusiasm and public thirst for romance novel characters. However, this has raised questions about the boundaries of desire and the line between admiration and harassment. The intense fandom and discussions about fictional characters show the enduring power of romantic storylines.
Candice Lim is joined by Slate senior editor Rebecca Onion to talk about their love of romance novels. The romance genre grew rapidly this past year, becoming the fastest-growing category of fiction and generating over $1.4 billion in sales revenue. Partly thanks to Goodreads and BookTok, romance novels are getting into the hands of younger, more outspoken and vocal readers. But recent scandals, including last year’s Hockey BookTok disaster, question the limits of literary thirsting and ask whether we can ever quit romance.
This podcast is produced by Se’era Spragley Ricks, Daisy Rosario, Candice Lim and Rachelle Hampton.