By Ilmars Briznieks
I have been told repeatedly by agents and editors that romance writers should use only England, Ireland, Scotland, or Wales as background in their novels. Supposedly, readers of these novels don't enjoy any other country depicted. Presumably, only interesting lovers come from these countries. What a narrow assumption. What about Italy, Spain, France, or any of the South American countries? Haven't they been known for generations to have had, and continue to have, some of the most dramatic love affairs?
It is beyond me why readers of romance novels have such preferences. Is it ignorance or just plain naivete?
Hey Ilmars, you forgot to mention America. ^_~ Many, many books are set right here in our home country. I highly recommend STRAY by Rachel Vincent, which is set in Texas.
ReplyDeleteYou might have to look harder for books set in exotic locations, but they are out there. One series that comes immediately to mind is Feehan's Carpathian novels (which start in Eastern Europe, and over the course of the series, the charters travel the world.)
While it is true that a more unusual locale may be a harder sell, agents and editors (and readers) will tell you that like so many other things in this business, it all comes down to the writing. You can do anything, as long as you do it well.
Best of luck selling yours! (So where is your romance set?)
Go, Ilmars!
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