Why Fantasy Romance

Often when I am asked what my books are about, I get asked the question “Why fantasy romance?“. It is then often followed up with “Oh. I don’t like that genre.“

The answer is simple. “Why not?”, and to respond to the comment, “That’s cool!”

I find it interesting that fantasy romance authors and readers seem to be pigeon-holed into a certain stereotype. I have had people judge me because I read (and write) within the genre. I have gotten a surprised comment along the lines of “I would have never expected that of you.” These are the types of comments that have people hiding their book covers behind their fingertips. Or, when asked what they are reading, respond with “Oh, nothing.”

As writers, we want everyone to love our book. But it’s okay if you don’t like the genre, and it’s okay if you don’t want to read it. As readers, we know that we don’t like every genre either.

So, why did I pick fantasy romance?

This was the story genre that came to me, the first one that I sat down and wrote in full. That doesn’t mean I don’t have other interests (I have a science fiction one in my head, swirling around), and eventually I will get to them. But romance was my start. I took Medieval Romance as a course in university. I love cheesy Hallmark Movies. I tear up (a lot) at heartwarming moments. It has gotten to the point my husband can pinpoint the exact moment in a television show that I will start sniffling.

Being a lover of romance novels doesn’t mean I am a heads in the cloud, hopeless romantic in my every day life. I do like a lot of genres – fantasy, science fiction and self improvement to name a few. I love action movies, Marvel movies, science fiction shows (Westworld, anyone?), among other things. But I also love a good romance.

So, to all my multi-dimensional readers who feel embarrassed to be caught enjoying what you love ~ it’s okay. It’s okay to love it. And it’s okay if other people don’t. You be you. Enjoy it! Keep reading what you love.

Sound off in the comments below! I would love to hear from you. What’s your favourite romance of all time?

~Emma~

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