A psychologist thinks romance novels give women unrealistic expectations about love.
When it comes to banned books, we're used to seeing classic titles on the blacklist, but a new essay from British psychologist Susan Quilliam suggests that we should take similar precautions when considering romance novels. In her research, which appeared in the Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Healthcare, Quilliam says that these fanficful stories can cause women to idealize sex and relationships.
Harlequin has submitted a patent application for the "essential romantic kiss."
Harlequin, one of the largest romance novel publishers, thinks they've got a shot at locking down a patent for the "essential romantic kiss." We figured this timeless tradition was far past patentable, but they're certainly making a case for it. The Canadian company is looking to patent a specific brand of lip-locking. According to a press release, it's a way for "two people (to) reciprocate their romantic feelings toward one another in a manner that deepens attachment, provides pleasure and promotes physical and emotional well-being—the essential romantic kiss."
Romance isn't about sex, sweeping gestures or man cleavage.
I'm here to tell you that romance is easily summed up in one word: Fabio. Oh, yes, the long, blond hair, the gleaming hunks of waxed man-cleavage shown off by a shirt that's undone but still tucked in: these are the hallmarks of romance. I'm kidding, of course. That may be the stereotypical image of romance, and most certainly of romance novels, but that's not romance itself—not by a long shot. Here's what is.
A personalized romance novel makes you and your partner the stars of a steamy plot.
Great gift alert: The personalized romance novel trend makes it easy for you and your partner to be the stars of a steamy plot. Romance lit that's just for you—literally. Here, we review three choose-your-own, personalized romance novel services.
A peek into the life of one of the most successful romance novelists, Nora Roberts.
We remember being young, hanging at our grandmother's house, and seeing this brown cardboard box being passed around. The mystery box was teeming with paperback romance novels, the pages of which made thick from page turning and dog earing. She'd read her way to the bottom of the box and, then trade with friends and, with relish, begin on a new stack of inky steaminess. When we recently spotted a day-in-the-life profile about none other than Nora Roberts, one of the most successful romance novelists of all time, in The New Yorker, we were thrilled to have a glimpse into a day in the life of a real-life romance novelist.
Plus, the best (worst?) euphemisms for sex in romance novels.
Love Bytes: three must click sex, dating and relationship links. How much should a guy's taste in clothing figure into your decisions? Plus, the best (worst?) euphemisms for sex in romance novels and more!
Romance authors penning books with Amish characters as romantic leads.
Talk about an Amish paradise!
The quiant community from Southeastern Pennsylvania are quickly developing their very own Carrie Bradshaw in Cindy Woodsmall—the Amish romance novelist.
Keep the dullness out of your relationship and you'll decrease your chances of divorce.
MSNBC recently explored the idea of how boredom affects divorce and while the potential may seem scary, the solution is surprisingly easy. "Shared challenges and exciting diversions are what make relationships hot long after the wedding gown has been packed up and stored away" the article states. "Boredom and a dull, daily routine, can kill a marriage, squashing intimacy and romance."
