Romance novels are the highest-earning fiction genre, with annual sales doubling in the past four years. What makes this even more remarkable is that the popularity of romance novels is growing at a time when overall book sales are on a sharp decline. Previously regarded as a guilty pleasure, romance novels are enjoying a more prominent position of status in the literary world, fueled by a new generation of romance writers and avid readers of the genre. Social media certainly played a large part in the acceptance of romance novels into the mainstream by establishing a direct connection between author and reader, as well as between the readers themselves.
No longer regarded as a niche market, these days you’re likely to find the top spots on the New York Times bestseller fiction list occupied by romance novels. Authors like Sarah Maas are recognizable, even to those who might not have read her books, or any other romance novels, for that matter.
With February being the unofficial romance month, and Valentine’s Day falling smack dab in the middle, it may not be surprising to learn that romance novels of all formats are in high demand, with sales peaking in the week leading up to Valentine’s Day.
Rhode Island is represented by its share of talented romance writers, with a long list of titles to consider. With a broad range of romance subgenres that include historical, suspense, paranormal, military, romantic comedy, as well as contemporary, there is something for all readers. As an author myself, supporting local writers is something I strongly encourage. To begin a search for a romance book that is right for you, while at the same time supporting local writers, I suggest logging into the Rhode Island Romance Writers (RIRW) website. This site not only lists the Rhode Island authors who belong to the organization and promotes the titles they have in print, they also help their authors to become published and build their careers in the writing field. Originally a chapter of the Romance Writers of America, RIRW has since disaffiliated, and is now an independent, nonprofit organization.
You will find more than thirty authors on the site, with links to personal websites and complete book listings. You won’t be disappointed by the variety and quality of the work of each of these authors, from the books by beginning writers whose names you may not have heard before to the newest releases by more well-established novelists, like Heidi McLaughlin, a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author. Her first novel, Forever My Girl, was adapted into a 2018 movie.
Jo Ann Brown Ferguson is another best-selling Rhode Island author. She has written more than 130 books, and has also established the first romance writing course at Brown University.
To learn more about Heidi and Jo Ann, or to find the perfect romance book for you by a local novelist, visit Rhode Island Romance Writers at RIRW.org.
