Are Romance Novels Just 'Bodice Rippers'?

After you read this post on Reading While Black , I'll let you decide.

Here's what I do know about the romance genre:

• Revenue from romance fiction is 1.37 billion dollars and outsells every market category by twenty-six (26%) with the exception of religion/inspirational books
• Romance fiction has the same characteristics as any other fiction novel with one distinction: it centers on the love between two people and provides an optimistic ending. Moreover, the read is fresh, smart, and diverse

Until next time - stay well and be blessed!