by L.C. Butler

 

If you are an aspiring romance writer you must read romance novels similar to what you want to write.  You cannot write romance novels if you don’t read them. 

 

Target your market:

 

It can be helpful to decide the market you want to target before you begin writing.  The best way to do this is to get the publisher’s guidelines from their website and then read some of their current releases so you understand what they are looking for.  If you want to write category romance, then you must learn what the publisher is looking for in the line.  Readers look for certain types of books in a series and your manuscript must fit if you want it to be accepted.

 

When selecting a book to read, check the copyright date, and don’t purchase books that have been republished.  You want to read books that editors have recently acquired and not books from a couple years ago.  Markets change, and it is important to understand what today’s editors are looking for.  If you are planning to submit to a series, familiarize yourself with the line, especially the books written by first time authors.  Established authors may not be required to adhere as closely to the line’s requirements as first time authors.

 

Read book reviews to understand how reviewers rate new works.  Romantic Times reviews newly released works and provides information on current happenings in the romance genre.

 

As you read books examine them for details.  Ask yourself how the author advanced the story through the characters, subplots and scenes. As a reader, how do you react to the story?  You can learn a great deal about writing by reading and it’s a great way to hone your craft.

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