How to Dive Into Contemporary Romance: A Beginner's Guide

 

Why Contemporary Romance Matters

Contemporary romance is the genre you need to dive into if you love modern, relatable love stories. With stories set in the present day, these novels cover every facet of romance in our ever-changing world.

• Definition: Contemporary romance refers to love stories set after 1945, reflecting current trends and lifestyles.
• Popularity: This subgenre is hugely popular, making up 41% of print and 44% of eBook sales in romance novels.
• Themes: Expect to find complex, realistic characters facing modern-day challenges in their relationships.

Contemporary romance novels are popular because they mirror real life, making them highly relatable and emotionally engaging. Whether dealing with work-life balance, navigating new technology in relationships, or portraying strong, career-driven heroines, these stories resonate deeply with readers.

As an expert in contemporary romance and with a background in English literature, I bring years of reading and experiencing these stories to the table. Stay tuned to learn more about what makes contemporary romance a favorite among so many readers.

What is Contemporary Romance?

Contemporary romance is a subgenre of romance novels that are set in the time period in which they are written. This means the stories take place in a modern setting, reflecting current social norms, technology, and lifestyles.

Definition

At its core, contemporary romance focuses on romantic relationships between characters in a current, realistic setting. These novels emphasize emotional connections, personal growth, and often deal with real-life issues. The characters are relatable and the settings are familiar, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the story.

Time Period

Contemporary romance novels are written and set in the present day. Unlike historical romance, which digs into the past, contemporary romance is all about the here and now. The genre has been evolving since the end of World War II in 1945, adapting to the changing societal norms and expectations.

For example, heroines in novels written before 1970 often left their jobs after marriage or having children. However, post-1970 contemporary romance novels showcase women who maintain their careers and balance work with their personal lives. This shift mirrors the real-world changes in women's roles in society.

Modern Settings

The settings in contemporary romance novels are as varied as real life. They can take place in busy cities, quiet small towns, or even exotic vacation spots. Here are some common settings you might find:

• Modern Cities: Fast-paced and full of opportunities, these settings often highlight the hustle and bustle of urban life. Think about the romantic possibilities in places like New York City or Los Angeles.

• Small Towns: These settings provide a cozy, intimate backdrop for romance. The close-knit communities and slower pace of life add a unique charm to the story.

• Workplaces: Many contemporary romances are set in professional environments, showcasing the balance between career and personal life. This can include anything from corporate offices to hospitals.

A popular example of a contemporary romance set in a modern city is Beach Read by Emily Henry. It’s about two writers who find themselves living next door to each other in beach houses and end up swapping genres to overcome writer’s block.

Another example is The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood, set in the academic world, where a Ph.D. student and a professor steer their way through a fake relationship that turns real.

Contemporary romance novels are not just about love; they often tackle real issues like work-life balance, personal trauma, and societal expectations. This makes them deeply relatable and engaging for readers.

Stay tuned as we dive into the popular themes and settings in contemporary romance, giving you a closer look at what makes these stories so captivating.

Popular Themes and Settings in Contemporary Romance

Contemporary romance novels thrive on relatable settings and themes that mirror our everyday lives. Let's explore some of the most popular ones:

Small Towns

Small towns are a staple in contemporary romance. They offer a cozy, intimate backdrop where everyone knows each other, and secrets are hard to keep. These settings often evoke a sense of nostalgia and community.

In small-town romances, the charm comes from the close-knit relationships and the slower pace of life. Characters often find themselves returning to their roots, refinding old flames, or starting afresh in a place where they feel at home.

Example: It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey is a perfect example. The story unfolds in a quaint fishing town, where the protagonist, Piper, finds love and a sense of belonging.

Universities

Universities and academic settings are another popular theme. These stories often revolve around young adults navigating the complexities of love, friendship, and self-findy while juggling academic pressures.

The campus environment provides a dynamic backdrop for romance, with its mix of youthful energy, intellectual pursuits, and the excitement of new experiences. It's a place where characters can grow and evolve, making it ripe for compelling romantic plots.

Example: The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood, set in the academic world, where a Ph.D. student and a professor steer their way through a fake relationship that turns real.

Modern Cities

Modern cities offer a vibrant and diverse setting for contemporary romance. These stories capture the hustle and bustle of urban life, where love can be found amidst the chaos of skyscrapers, busy streets, and diverse cultures.

City romances often feature characters with ambitious careers and lives. The city setting allows for a variety of romantic scenarios, from chance encounters in coffee shops to high-stakes corporate romances.

Example: Beach Read by Emily Henry, set in a coastal town but with elements of city life as the protagonists are both writers dealing with their own personal struggles and creative blocks.

Combining Themes

Many contemporary romance novels blend these themes to create rich, multifaceted stories. A character might leave a busy city to find peace in a small town, or two university professors might fall in love while navigating the challenges of academia.

These varied settings and themes make contemporary romance a versatile and deeply engaging genre, offering something for every reader.

Next, we'll dive into the best contemporary romance authors, highlighting some of the top names you should add to your reading list.

Best Contemporary Romance Authors

If you're new to contemporary romance, starting with well-renowned authors can make all the difference. Here are four authors you shouldn't miss:

Danielle Jackson

Danielle Jackson is a rising star in contemporary romance. Her novels often feature strong, relatable heroines and heartwarming narratives. Jackson's stories are perfect for readers who enjoy authentic characters and emotional depth. Her ability to weave real-life issues into her romance plots makes her work resonate with many readers.

Jasmine Guillory

Jasmine Guillory has become a household name in contemporary romance. Known for her witty dialogue and diverse characters, Guillory's books are a celebration of modern love. Her novel The Wedding Date is a fan favorite, where a chance meeting in an elevator leads to a fake date that turns into something more. Guillory's writing is not just about love; it also tackles themes like race, body positivity, and personal growth.

Denise Williams

Denise Williams brings a unique voice to the genre with her nuanced characters and engaging storylines. Her debut novel, How to Fail at Flirting, combines humor, romance, and a touch of suspense. Williams' background in higher education often influences her settings and characters, adding an extra layer of realism to her stories. If you enjoy romantic tales that also explore personal challenges and triumphs, Williams is an author to check out.

TJ Alexander

TJ Alexander is known for their inclusive and heartfelt romances. Their books often feature LGBTQ+ characters and themes, making them a standout in the genre. Alexander's Chef's Kiss is a delightful read that combines culinary arts with a sweet romance between two chefs. Their stories are not just about love; they also focus on self-acceptance and finding one's place in the world.

These authors offer a great starting point for anyone looking to dive into contemporary romance. Their diverse stories and relatable characters ensure there's something for everyone.

Next, let's explore the different subgenres within contemporary romance, each offering a unique twist on modern love stories.

Exploring Subgenres of Contemporary Romance

Contemporary romance is a rich genre with many subgenres. Each brings a unique flavor to modern love stories. Let's explore some of the most popular subgenres.

Romantic Suspense

Romantic suspense blends elements of romance and mystery. Think of it as a love story with a thrilling twist. These novels often involve high-stakes situations, like kidnappings or secret missions. The suspense keeps you on the edge of your seat, while the romance adds emotional depth.

Example: The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood mixes romance with a thrilling academic setting.

Paranormal Romance

Paranormal romance adds a supernatural twist to love stories. Think vampires, werewolves, and other mythical creatures. These novels create a magical atmosphere where the impossible becomes possible. The romance is often intense, driven by the supernatural elements.

Example: Twilight by Stephenie Meyer is a well-known paranormal romance featuring vampires and humans.

Medical Romance

Medical romance takes place in hospital settings, featuring doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. These stories often highlight the challenges and triumphs of working in healthcare, adding a layer of realism. The characters are usually strong and compassionate, making the romance both heartfelt and inspiring.

Example: Grey's Anatomy in book form would be a classic example of medical romance.

LGBTQ+ Romance

LGBTQ+ romance focuses on diverse relationships, offering representation for various sexual orientations and gender identities. These stories are crucial for representation and often explore themes of acceptance, identity, and love. They provide a voice for underrepresented communities and can be incredibly powerful.

Example: Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston features a romance between the First Son of the United States and a British prince.

Each subgenre within contemporary romance offers something unique, ensuring there's a perfect love story for everyone. Whether you prefer the thrill of suspense, the inspiration of faith, the magic of the supernatural, the realism of medical settings, or the diversity of LGBTQ+ relationships, contemporary romance has it all.

Next, let's answer some frequently asked questions to help you steer contemporary romance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Contemporary Romance

What makes a romance novel 'contemporary'?

Contemporary romance novels are set in the present day. They reflect current societal norms, trends, and technologies. These stories often deal with issues that are relevant to today's readers, such as career challenges, modern dating, and balancing work with personal life.

Unlike historical romances, where characters might be constrained by the societal norms of their time, contemporary romances feature characters who steer the complexities of modern life. For example, heroines in contemporary romances often have and maintain careers, unlike their pre-1970 counterparts who typically quit working upon marriage or childbirth.

How do contemporary romances differ from historical romances?

The primary difference lies in the time settings. Historical romances are set in past eras, like the Regency or Victorian periods, while contemporary romances take place in the present day.

Character occupations also differ significantly. In historical romances, characters might be dukes, duchesses, or governesses. In contemporary romances, you'll find characters working as doctors, teachers, business executives, or artists.

Additionally, historical romances often explore themes like arranged marriages and class differences, while contemporary romances focus on modern issues like online dating, single parenthood, and workplace dynamics.

What are some must-read contemporary romance novels?

If you're new to contemporary romance, here are a few must-read titles to get you started:

• "The Love Hypothesis" by Ali Hazelwood: This book is a fan-favorite for its quirky characters and engaging plot. It tells the story of a scientist who pretends to date a colleague, only for real feelings to develop.

• "Beach Read" by Emily Henry: This novel is loved for its smart writing and relatable characters. It follows two authors who swap genres for the summer, leading to unexpected romantic developments.

• "It Happened One Summer" by Tessa Bailey: Described as a near-perfect contemporary romance, this book features a socialite who falls for a rugged fisherman, blending humor and heart in equal measure.

These novels are beloved by readers for their relatable characters, engaging plots, and emotional depth. They offer a great starting point for anyone looking to dive into contemporary romance.

Enhancing Your Reading Experience with Frostbeard Studio

When diving into contemporary romance, the right ambiance can lift your reading experience. That's where Frostbeard Studio comes in.

Frostbeard Studio, based in Minneapolis, creates hand-poured soy candles inspired by literary characters and settings. These candles are designed to transport you into your favorite books, making your reading nook a cozy and inviting space.

Why Choose Soy Candles?

• Eco-Friendly: Soy candles are made from natural soybeans, making them a sustainable choice.
• Long-Lasting: They burn slower and cleaner than paraffin candles, giving you more hours of delightful scents.
• Better Scent Throw: Soy wax holds fragrance well, ensuring your space is filled with captivating aromas.

Literary-Inspired Scents

Imagine lighting a candle that smells like a cozy library or a magical forest while you immerse yourself in a contemporary romance novel. Frostbeard Studio offers a variety of scents that can make your reading experience more immersive. For example, their holiday collection captures the essence of the season, perfect for those wintery romance reads.

Supporting Local Craftsmanship

By choosing Frostbeard Studio candles, you're not only enhancing your reading experience but also supporting a small business dedicated to quality and craftsmanship. Each candle is made with care and attention to detail, ensuring a high-quality product that complements your reading time.

So, the next time you pick up a contemporary romance novel, light a Frostbeard Studio candle. Let the enchanting scents transport you deeper into the story, making your reading experience truly magical.

Now, let's dive into some frequently asked questions about contemporary romance.

Conclusion

Ready to dive into contemporary romance? It's a genre that offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're new to romance novels or a seasoned reader, contemporary romance provides relatable characters, modern settings, and heartwarming stories.

Getting Started with Contemporary Romance

Starting your journey in contemporary romance is easy. Begin with popular titles that have captivated readers worldwide. Books like "The Love Hypothesis" and "Beach Read" are great entry points. These novels feature realistic characters facing modern-day challenges, making them highly relatable and engaging.

Expanding Your Reading Horizons

Don't stop at just one book. The world of contemporary romance is vast and varied. Explore different subgenres like medical romance, where love blossoms in hospital settings, or LGBTQ+ romance, which offers diverse and inclusive love stories. Each subgenre brings its own unique flavor, ensuring you'll never run out of exciting reads.

Frostbeard Studio Candles

To make your reading experience even more immersive, consider lighting a Frostbeard Studio candle. Our candles are inspired by literary themes and characters, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your reading time. Imagine the scent of "Midnight Romance" filling your room as you dig into a steamy love story. It’s the perfect way to improve your reading nook and make every moment more magical.

So, grab a contemporary romance novel, light a Frostbeard Studio candle, and let yourself be swept away by the enchanting world of modern love stories. Happy reading!