Coming out for Romance

In my non-writing life, I work at a small, independent bookstore called Aaron's Books. My one boss, Sam, and I are always discussing books - what sells and what doesn't in our area and how to figure out what she should order for the store. Romance books are not huge sellers - it seems nobody wants to admit they actually read them. This past week, in passing, she said she needed to blog but didn't know what to blog about. I challenged her to blog about romance. Her blog is here:

http://www.aaronsbookslititz.blogspot.co

Take a look and see what challenges she faces in deciding what to purchase.

As for me, I am very much a romance reader. But it is not the only genre I read. I also love science fiction, fantasy, and mysteries. And if they happen to have a little romance in them, so much the better. It's probably why I adore paranormal, futuristic or romantic suspense - everything I like all in one.

What I don't like is people who look down on the romance genre. Over the years, I've found some of the best reading I've ever enjoyed in this area. Yes, there have been a few here and there that I felt like tossing in the trash, but for the most part, they have been well-loved tomes. I find it interesting that the people who usually put them down the most have never read one. With the wide variety of sub-genres out there, you really should pick one up and read it. Don't like fantasy? Then try a contemporary. Or inspirational. Or suspense. Or futuristic. Or paranormal. And they come in every heat level from sweet (barely more than a chaste kiss) to extreme heat (graphic physicality). There's something for every taste.

Why not take a look? You might be surprised.