SBD -- other stuff

[jmc_bks]

Okay, I updated my spreadsheet of books read and noticed a bunch of gaps and trends. The one that surprised me most -- that I read more straight romance than any other sub-genre this year. Because I feel like I spent a lot of time trying out paranormal, fantasy-lite, Luna-ish books, and a significant amount of time reading non-fiction (mostly in the history/politics section). Except, wait, when I sort by that column, the publication date for most of those straight romance books mostly predate 2000.

Not to knock the paranormally, Luna-ish books, but really, it occured to me this morning that I'm tired of adventure and suspense in my romance. Serial killers, threats to the alternate reality, etc....a little goes a long way. Suspense and action have their place, but must they be dragged into a romance novel at all costs? How many times have I picked up a book only to be disappointed by the contortions that author goes through to get to a suspense plot? I haven't actually counted, but I do think it is an increasing number. Is it safe to assume that editors aren't interested in straight romance without suspense? 'Cause it seems like a dying breed to me...although I may be looking for these books in the worng place.

Just my opinion and I could be wrong. I am often enough about other things.

Comments

[eackerman.livejournal.com]

Good point. I'm in the middle of reading Laura Baumbach's m/m erotica A Bit of Rough and so far it's all about the relationship.

[sarahf.livejournal.com]

Not brilliantly about the relationship, I'll admit. It's got its problems, but they're such a CUTE couple! ;)