A good majority of stories have some kind of romance involved, even if it's not the main plotline. However, if you're looking for a solid romance to sweep you off your feet, but aren't into historical fiction or stories with fantastical elements, modern (or contemporary) romance might be what you need. There are some story elements that you'll find a lot in modern women's romantic fiction novels. Not every modern romance will include every single one, and you will still find them sometimes in other genres, of course, but if you like these story elements in your books, you will likely enjoy a contemporary romance.
Career Women
If the whole "damsel in distress" storyline makes you roll your eyes, do not worry—you're unlikely to see that in a modern women's romance. Contemporary writers are really striving to create strong, independent female leads. These women know what they want and are successful at what they do, or at least working hard for future success. Other genres definitely still have strong women, but if you don't like the romantic conflict that revolves around arranged marriages or getting her father's permission to marry, modern romance novels are the way to go.
Real-Life Relationship Problems
Sometimes it's fun to read about a curse that keeps the two lovers apart, but other times you might just want to read something true to life. Reading about other people struggling with some of the same relationship problems as you can be very validating. Maybe the main character meets the love interest right when big things are happening in her career and can't afford distractions. Maybe the two lovers met online and now struggle to make a long-distance relationship work. Maybe they are attracted to each other but want very different things in life. A modern romance novel will have realistic problems that are likely problems you also face.
Diversity
Modern writers in all genres are striving to include more diversity in their novels, and this is definitely something that a contemporary romance will include as well. Maybe the lovers will come from completely different ethnic backgrounds and have to resolve cultural differences. Many modern romances will feature biracial couples. Diversity isn't just about race, though, and contemporary romances will also include LGBTQ+ couples and characters, differently-abled couples, characters from different religions, and more. So, if you love a good romance but also want to learn more about the experiences of people different than you, a modern romantic novel might just help you do that.
Happy Endings
If you had some bad experiences with classic tragedies in a high school English class, don't let that stop you from picking up a romantic novel! A good majority of modern romances are written with a happy ending. A happy ending isn't always true to life, to be sure, but many people read fiction books as an escape from their real life. Everyone wants to believe that love will win out in the end. It's inspiring to read about couples overcoming obstacles to be together. Authors understand that, so you shouldn't worry too much about becoming emotionally invested in characters who have a relationship that will end in tragedy and sorrow.
If these story elements appeal to you, pick up a modern women's romantic fiction novel today from a local book store!
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