Romance Writing 101: How to get started in 2023
Do you have romantic stories swirling around in your head? Do you dream of being a 21st Century Jackie Collins?
It’s not just the love that’s got budding authors putting pen to paper. Being a romance writer is quickly becoming a VERY lucrative pastime. In fact, according to Romance Writers of America the romance fiction industry is worth $1.08 billion dollars a year, making romance the highest earning genre of fiction!
So how do you get started as a romance writer? It’s not as hard as you might think. Get cozy with a cup of tea and read on for our tips on how to get yourself writing and published!
Read widely and analyze critically
As a romance writer, you need to be familiar with the genre’s conventions and tropes. Read widely in the genre to get a sense of what the readers are looking for, but also read critically to analyze what works and what doesn't! Study the structure, character development, dialogue and pacing of successful romance novels such as Jenny Hann’s trilogy The Summer I Turned Pretty. Most importantly, work out what you love and lean into it, no one said research can’t be fun!
Develop your writing skills
Consider taking writing courses, attending workshops and joining writing groups to improve your craft and seek feedback from other writers. Make use of planning tools such as our Love Generator to help you refine your story plot, experiment with alternative directions and characters.
Build a Platform
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential. Create a website where you can show-case your work, share your writing journey, and connect with readers. Use social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to promote your work, engage with fans, and network with other writers and industry professionals.
Social media works best when you are enjoying it and engaging consistently, so pick a platform that most aligns with your own interests so you will want to keep coming back! For example, if up to date news and commentary is important to you, head to twitter. If you are a visual person, consider Instagram and if you want to build a network of other aspiring authors, check out LinkedIn.
Market Research
Before you start writing, research the market to understand what publishers and readers are looking for. Take note of publishers' submission guidelines, attend writing conferences and events, and follow industry blogs and news sources to stay up- to-date on trends, opportunities, and challenges in the industry.
Write and revise
Once you've done your research, it's time to write! Set realistic writing goals and deadlines and prioritise consistency over perfection. Write and write and write! The most important thing is to show up at the writing desk. As Hani Hakkam said:
“Success is the result of consistent action, fueled by passion and guided by purpose. It's not about being the best, but about being better than you were yesterday. So strive for progress, not perfection, and trust the process, for the journey is just as important as the destination.”
The Love Generator can help you see your story from new perspectives, which can really help with getting story clarity and confidence in your work.
Submit or self-publish
When your manuscript is ready, start submitting it to agents and publishers that specialise in romance. Follow submission guidelines carefully and personalise your query letters to demonstrate your understanding of the market and the publisher's preferences. Be prepared for rejection and keep submitting until you find the right fit. Alternatively, consider going the DIY route and self-publishing on a platform such as Amazons KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing).
Build relationships and network
Building relationships with other writers, industry professionals, and readers is essential for any successful career in romance writing. Attend writing conferences such as the annual Romance Writers of America Conference, join writing organisations, and participate in online writing communities to connect with like-minded individuals, gain valuable insights and feedback, and expand your network.
You can do this! Remember, if you need a little help, have a squiz at The Love Generator, it’s sure to get your creative juices flowing.
Written by Sophie Hiscox | Sophie is a Marian Keyes fan who can bake a very delicious Persian Love Cake. She also thinks that The Love Generator is the single best tool out there for Romance Writers.
