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Despite being one of publishing’s highest-grossing genres, romance novels – particularly those written by women – often face dismissal as “frivolous.”
Meanwhile, these books serve as powerful vehicles for diverse perspectives, emotional intelligence, and healthy relationship models while examining why similar themes in male-authored works automatically receive ‘literary” status.
Together we’ll discover romance literature’s profound impact and explore how readers, critics, and the publishing industry can challenge the gendered double standards that have long shaped the genre’s reception.
In this episode, Leslie J. Wyatt joins internationally-acclaimed bestselling fiction novelist Lana McAra for a revealing and informative conversation where you will discover romance literature’s profound impact.
When readers, critics, and the publishing industry can challenge the gendered double standards that have long shaped the genre’s reception, it leads to great #Unputdownable fiction writing.
Tune in and hear Leslie J. Wyatt’s thoughts on:
- Why romance books make billions of dollars and have incredibly loyal readers, yet they still get eye rolls from the literary world
- Examples of modern romance books that really show how the genre has evolved
- Why readers call romance books ‘formulaic’ but don’t say the same thing about mysteries or thrillers that follow similar patterns
- Why when men write about love and relationships, it’s often called literary fiction; but when women write about the same things, it’s labeled romance
- Whether people are quick to dismiss the romance books genre because it often puts women’s desires and experiences front and center
- The studies show that people who read romance novels often have healthier relationships; yet romance gets such a bad rap when it’s actually helping people
- And much, much more!
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About the Author: Leslie J. Wyatt
Leslie J. Wyatt crafts romance novels that celebrate love in later years.
She creates immersive worlds filled with true colors, flawed but lovable characters, and wishes coming true.
A professional writer since 1997, Leslie's work spans romance, historical novels for young readers, and non-fiction.
In addition to her romance novel, All of Me, coming out with Sibylline Digital First December 2024, and When I’m 64, pubbing February of 2025, she has published over 1,000 pieces, including articles, profiles, and essays, in publications such as Romance Writer’s Report, Cup of Comfort, and Children’s Writer Guides.
Leslie presents at literature festivals, writing conferences, workshops, writing-related podcasts and events.
When not writing, she enjoys camping with her husband and marveling at the countless stars in the night sky, finding inspiration for her next story in the beauty of the universe.
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