Thread by @mektastic

As a reader, I have a message for people wanting to write in the categorical genre that is romance. This isn't for the ones who want romantic elements in their stories, but those who market their books to romance readers and trying to break the one rule that rules them all.

First off, romance readers are widely read so while you are sitting there thinking that you are going to introduce us to the next hot take in literature, chances are that we've already read it, but thanks for playing. Not me, though. I don't read widely much anymore.

The genre rule isn't for you, it's for us. The readers who expect specific things from the genre, and for some reason y'all aren't out here trying to take the myst out of mysteries, but whatever. As a reader, the happily ever after convention is for us.

This conversation shows up every now and again and I don't mind explaining it to the people who don't know better, but you? The one who thinks that you are going to redefine the genre and somehow help us understand that there is "better" out there? You don't listen. So fine.

So go ahead, write that genre-defining book where you decide to show complete and utter disrespect for your audience. Market that as romance, where we are expecting one thing and you show that you want the dollars but not the readers. Trick us with that blurb b/c you suck.

But reader trust is a beautiful thing and once broken, it is nearly impossible to get it back. Don't come crying to us when you wonder why that book got one star. Because if I'm tricked like that? I'm rating that book, reviewing that book, and telling my friends.

Don't flagrantly disrespect the genre and then come crying to those who have been patiently trying to explain and express. I'm over it. People tell you and you don't want to listen so frankly, why waste the energy? I'm not going to. I'm busy reading authors who understand the HEA

"But can't I write in a genre and tell a romantic story? My CREATIVITY IS RUINED!"
You can tell whatever story you want. Just understand the genre. It doesn't need to be redefined. It just needs y'all to embrace it if you want to write in it.

I'll start this thread the way I ended it...by saying that I wish we wouldn't waste our energy on your incorrect hot takes. Also what you are saying isn't new, just ask the other 823712312.12 people who came before you and respect the readers of the genre you want to write.

Addendum, romance readers read widely. If the genre appeals, if your story appeals and isn't a romance? We're still going to trip all over ourselves to read it. We are ride or die when it comes to books. Happy reading!