Why I Chose to Write Romance
I didn’t always consider myself a romance reader. Growing up, I read widely across different genres, but it wasn’t until about three years ago that I truly fell in love with romance. Since then, I’ve devoured books across the genre—contemporary romance, dark and taboo romance, romantasy, paranormal romance, and the occasional rom-com. Each subgenre brings something unique to the table, but what they all have in common is what keeps me coming back: deep, emotional storytelling centered on characters and connection.
What Drew Me to Romance?
Romance, at its core, is about connection. It’s about two people navigating their emotions, their pasts, and their fears to find something real. There’s something so powerful about that journey—the tension, the longing, the heartbreak, and the eventual healing. No matter the setting, whether it’s a small-town ranch or a world filled with magic, romance stories remind us that love is worth fighting for.
Beyond that, I love how romance can be woven into so many different kinds of stories. It’s a genre that allows for deep emotional storytelling but also fun, lighthearted moments. It can be angsty or cozy, dramatic or soft, but at the end of the day, it always offers hope. And I think that’s why I keep coming back to it—not just as a reader, but as a writer.
Books & Authors That Inspired My Approach
Since falling in love with romance, I’ve been especially drawn to stories that balance strong emotional arcs with compelling settings. These books have influenced my own writing in different ways:
Lyla Sage’s Rebel Blue Ranch Series – These books capture the rugged beauty of Wyoming ranch life while delivering swoon-worthy romance and rich family dynamics. They’ve influenced my own approach to writing about small Wyoming communities and the weight of family legacies.
Carley Fortune’s This Summer Will Be Different – A beautifully written second-chance romance set in a resort town, this book masterfully blends nostalgia, longing, and the bittersweet pull of the past. It’s a perfect example of how setting can enhance the emotional depth of a love story.
Baggage Claim by Juliana Smith – A small ski town romance with cozy winter vibes, heartfelt characters, and the kind of romance that feels warm and familiar, yet fresh.
Fight by Paisley Hope – A second-chance romance packed with small-town dynamics, history between the characters, and a satisfying emotional payoff—the kind of layered storytelling I love.
Each of these books has influenced my writing in different ways, whether it’s how they create atmosphere, build chemistry, or explore the complexities of love and relationships.
Why I Chose to Start with Romance
While I don’t know if romance will always be my genre, it’s the one I want to start with. At its heart, romance is character-driven, and that’s what I want my work to be—deeply rooted in the emotions, flaws, and growth of the people at its center. Whether I write contemporary love stories, dark and angsty romances, or something with a touch of magic, I know my stories will always be shaped by the relationships and emotions that define them.
For now, romance is where my heart is, and I’m excited to bring my own stories to life in a genre that has given me so much as a reader.
What about you? Are you a romance reader? What’s your favorite romance subgenre to read? Do you have a book that made you fall in love with romance? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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