You have definitely seen a contemporary romance on the shelf of your local library (Hello!), bookstore, or maybe you even own a couple yourself. Names like Emily Henry, Abby Jimenez, Jenny Han, and Kennedy Ryan are top of mind when talking about this popular genre. But what even is a contemporary romance? Let's take a look!
Key features of Contemporary Romance:
- Takes place in a modern-day setting
- Characters are relatable, usually struggling with common, everyday issues (career, friends, family, money, etc.)
- Romance is the central plot, with subplots revolving around it
- Dialog and character-driven writing styles
- Happy-Ever-After (HEA) or Happy-For-Now (HFN) endings
In the past decade or so, contemporary romances have been at the forefront of the romance genre when including diverse representation in their main characters. Various races, orientations, and body types feature across the board. The popularity of titles like Heated Rivalry prove that there is a passionate fanbase out there, ready and willing to pick up a book with a diverse cast of characters.
The hockey romance is not the only book getting the TV and movie treatment. With big stars adding their names to projects adapting books from Love Hypothesis, Finding Her Edge, and The Bodyguard. Not to mention the Colleen Hoover and Emily Henry adaptations that have already been released or announced.
If you have never picked up a contemporary romance, now is an exciting time to jump into the genre! Don't let the cartoon covers deter you, these books are anything but childish. Now get out there and read on!
