What is Black Romance?

So, I ran into this tweet on Twitter:

Not only do I agree with everything this person had to say, but it also really had me thinking, in this month of Black History Month and Valentine's Day–about how we define the genre of romance, particularly in the black community versus the complex ideas of what black romance should be in society.

Before we delve into all of that, let’s look at a literal definition of romance:

Typically in literature, romance is associated with tales of adventure or challenges. At the same time, the genre is also commonly connected with fantasy, action, and adventure novels. I personally believe that romance can also be connected with the love of something someone is passionate about. It can also be connected with a memory or feeling that brings that warm spread across the chest and shortness of breath. Romance is complex but very simple at the same time, and when it comes to black romance we have to understand that it's up to black people to decide what that means.

Some believe that as long as any type of black character is involved, it can be considered black romance. I disagree with that. When we read about a character, we have that automatic understanding that the character would be encased in that identity. When I read a black romance, I want to see and hear and feel all the nuances of a black main character and black love interest. This is not to say that other races have no space in having a romance with a black character, but there are other genres for that such as interracial romance and multicultural romance. Let's be clear–if we are spending the extra time to find these particular genres, we do NOT want to be disappointed.

Now, I’ll step off my soapbox and recommend some beautiful romance books within their appropriate genre.

If you want more recommendations, search the hashtag #28DaysofBR on Twitter, and you will not be disappointed.

Of course, we would love to extend the love for books that include Black characters, Indigenous characters, and characters of all types of backgrounds–but we cannot forget that those stories come with a purpose. An understanding of that character extends beyond what media stereotypes portray, and part of that purpose means that we cannot have all characters look, sound, and behave the same way.

Edited by Rebeca Edwards.