Most readers of romance novels say they pour over them because they’re lonely, not satisfied in their current private lives, or simply enjoy being swept away by the stories while they enjoy some quiet time. But, let’s face it, the characters in these novels are buffed, built, curvy and courageous. They have lives most people only dream about. They travel to exotic lands or time periods, and the main characters always live happily ever after in the end.
People enjoy these tales of suspense, intrigue, and sensuality so much that romance novels account for 55% of all book sales. But, can this seemingly innocent guilty pleasure warp our way of viewing real relationship so much that it makes dating difficult? And what do they do for relationships in general?
Some women say that reading a romance can help to get them in the mood for their partner, or it’s just a nice escape from reality for a few hours. For single women, maybe these types of books can be a reminder that there is still love out there in the world.
But there are women who get so involved in these books that they become increasingly dissatisfied with their own lives. Whether married or single, they wish their man (or someday man) had a better job, dressed better, and was a better lover. This isn’t fair to the average man. After all, how many women are like the heroines in these larger-than-life stories? They need to rethink these thoughts and practice a little self-control, perhaps find a different hobby that’s more constructive.
What can women, especially single women, learn from romance novels that may actually help them in their lives? The female character always grows and learns from her past. She always seems to have an emotional and spiritual awakening where she becomes far more independent, strong, and confident. She knows what she wants and won’t allow anyone to mistreat or disrespect her. These women also follow their dreams. Obviously, these are good traits to follow. For single women, it can help keep their hearts open for their Mr. Right.
Reading romance novels doesn’t have to be a bad thing, as long as the reader keeps things in perspective and doesn’t allow these fictional stories to warp her sense of what real life is really like.