Romance Then vs Now

Fellow romance lovers, let’s talk about how the romance genre has changed over the years! As someone who has read everything from Pride and Prejudice to the latest BookTok sensations, I’m excited to dive into this evolution with you. 

Remember those paperbacks with the flowing-haired heroines being swept off their feet by heroes on horseback? Those were the foundation of modern romance! Back then, our heroines were “innocent maidens” waiting to meet their one true love– usually a mysterious duke or rugged cowboy. The formula was pretty consistent: the girl meets the boy, faces some (usually external) obstacles, and eventually finds her happily ever after. While these stories gave us warm fuzzies, they often reflected their era’s more traditional values and gender roles. 

Fast forward to today, what a transformation! Modern romance has burst out of its corseted constraints like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis. We’ve got stories where our MMCs and FMCs are all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. In the days when our heroines needed rescuing, we have characters who are CEOs, scientists, politicians, and athletes instead of people in traditional roles. It’s so refreshing to see female main characters with actual career goals, friend groups and lives outside of their romance arc. And modern romance isn’t afraid to turn up the heat! While classic novels relied on subtle hints and closed doors, contemporary romance embraces female pleasure and healthy discussions about intimacy. From no spice to it being so hot you need a break there’s something for every comfort level. 

Older Romance Recs:

Pride and Prejudice – Jane Austen
Jane Eyre – Charlotte Brontë
The Thorn Birds – Colleen McCullough
Whitney, My Love – Judith McNaught

Modern Romance Recs:

The Fine Print – Lauren Asher Twisted Love – Ana Huang Daydream – Hannah Grace. Blind Side – Kandi Steiner