About the Romance Genre
Definition
The simplest way to define the romance fiction genre is to say that the main focus of the books are about the developing relationship between a hero and a heroine, and that they end up together and in love by the end of the book. Although this doesn't seem too complicated, there are different ways in which the authors can go about bringing the main characters together, and this is reflected in the different subgenres. The novels also usually have a secondary plot, such as mysteries to be solved or career goals to be achieved. These subplots serve to move the relationship along towards a happy ending.
Appeal
Romance books are very popular and appeal to millions of readers every year. Factors that make romance novels so popular include a tone that draws the reader in and allows for emotional involvement; a storyline where the main focus is on the relationship between the hero and heroine who are learning to love each other while being true to the values and standards of their time, and must overcome the circumstances or misunderstandings keeping them apart; characters who are attractive and lovable - the men are strong and handsome and the women are beautiful and intelligent - and who are often surrounded by secondary characters who provide added interest and sometimes humor to the story; and pacing that allows for fast reading and is easy to get involved in, and uses descriptive language to set the mood, describe characters, and allow the reader to feel like they are part of the story.
Characteristics
While all romances focus on the developing relationship between the hero and heroine, other characteristics vary across subgenres. Some books, such as contemporary and some series ones, have a lot of lovemaking and are very sensual, while others, like Regency period romances and inspirational novels don't have more than a few kisses shared between the couple. In more recent romances, point of view usually alternates between the hero and heroine, so the reader can understand their feelings for each other. In the past, it was less common to show the hero's point of view. The books are written in the third person to show the relationship overall. Descriptive language that conveys the feelings between the main characters is a must, even though it can sound amusing and over-the-top when taken out of context. The first kiss between the hero and heroine is emotional and exciting, and sets the tone for how the relationship will develop. The hero and heroine are monogamous and must be basically likable people. Even if they don't start off the book seeming that way, they develop during the course of the story and become worthy of each other's love.
Romances have not historically received a lot of respect as a genre; they have been considered "trashy" and of low literary standards. Readers have been too embarrassed to read them in public because they don't want to be thought of as ignorant or worse, and critics have considered readers to not know the difference between reality and fantasy. These are just stereotypical beliefs, and people read romances, just like any other genre, for many reasons. They may want a bit of escape from ordinary life, or an easy way to relax; they may enjoy the setting and time frame as much as the story; or they may like them for other reasons entirely. As in Rosenberg's first law of reading, readers should never have to apologize for their tastes. Many of these stereotypes have been due to the covers often featured on romance novels; a half-dressed couple caught in a supposedly passionate but probably uncomfortable scene. These "clench" covers are becoming less popular, which may help readers to feel more comfortable carrying around the books. Trends are moving towards plainer covers with flowery illustrations; the "real-estate" cover featuring a house, mansion, or castle; or chick lit inspired covers, such as cartoon-style characters in bright colors. Readers can also tell something about what will be inside the book by details on the cover: a castle, knight's glove, or sword will signify a medieval; a Regency will have a couple standing close together, smiling, and with all their clothes on correctly; a cowboy hat or spurs will be a Western; or a baby on the cover means that a baby plays an important part of the story. Instead of having sequels, romances are often "linked"; that is, secondary characters from one book will often become the hero or heroine of another book.