These Wicked Games

Author:Sherry Ledington
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9780061758201
Publisher: HarperCollins

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September 26, 2006

Esi Sogah

In Defense of Romance

So, I’m not going to give you tips on writing because…I’m an editor. The idea of writing a book makes me break out in hives. I’m in awe of all of you for diving into this. No, I thought I would take this opportunity to share my thoughts on this crazy thing we call romance.

Most people have the same response when I say, “I edit romance novels.” First: Wow, that’s so cool. Second: So, how does it feel to work on trash? And: How can you possibly tell a “good” romance novel? And since I don’t always have the best impulse control, it’s hard to refrain from letting my inner witch fly free. However, after the rage dies down, I try to point out that, yes, it is extremely cool, and here’s why:

I do understand that the people who say things like this have almost definitely never read a romance—and certainly not a good one. They have some vague, clichéd idea of a romance novel, and it is my duty to burst their bubbles. (No, I have never come across the phrase “heaving bosom,” but as soon as I do, I’ll let you know.) When writing romances, there are so many stereotypes, so many possible pitfalls, that one wrong step will sink you. The fact that there are so many intelligent women (and men!) who can navigate this minefield deserves our undying respect. There is nothing harder than telling a story where everyone knows the ending and still keeping it interesting. Our authors do it every day with an incredible amount of talent and skill. Once I’m done explaining this, I’ll dig out one of my favorite romances (specially chosen according to my subject’s personality), sit back, and watch a whole new world of reading open up before their eyes.

So, what do you have to say in defense of romance? Have you come across people like this in your lives, and if so, what are your standard responses? And if you were one of those people, what changed your mind?

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