There is a distinct difference between romance books, and the cheesy counterparts of erotica. I read romance novels for the emotional roller coaster, I like to weep, feel pain for the characters and feeling happy at the end with all the loose ends tied up. Best example and my favourite book is Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. Which, I would like to point out, was written under a male pseudonym at the time and was frequently read and praised by men.

I resent that most people here are labeling all romance novels the same. Even more so that men are quick to compare romance novels with pornography. It is not the same at all. I believe most people on this site are referring to erotica disguised as literature.

Also before Troy and Jon begin high-fiving each other believing that they have found an ‘acceptable’ excuse to watch pornography because their partners read romance novels. Perhaps you should understand more about the different types of romance novels before you lump them altogether in your ignorance.

I have no problem with your emotional porn, and hopefully you have no problem with my “real” porn.

I don’t expect you to live up to porn (it’s fantasy) and I hope that you don’t expect me to live up to the romance novel. I am not Fabio.

Anyone who feels threatened by romance novels is insecure. Anyone who feels threatened by real porn (within reason) is insecure. It’s impossible to be in a relationship without fantasising about others (even strangers walking down the street), but it’s not cheating it’s harmless. It doesn’t mean you want to leave your partner for that person. Recognising that is where the “security and self esteem” comes in. So that you are not threatened.

Both are a harmless indulgence, it doesn’t mean you want to leave your partner and marry Fabio or Jenna Jameson.

These are my feelings on the subject. I think it can become dangerous though, when either side forgets that it’s fantasy and doesn’t exist in the real world. That’s why it’s good to indulge specifically for that reason, that it doesn’t exist in the real world.

What frustrates me is that the stigma for porn is alot higher then romance novels. However I don’t think that’s an issue with you guys here on this site, since you seem to be more honest about it. Emotional porn, as you conceeded. I appreciate the honesty.

1. Twilight: A guy that’s supposed to be perfect has NEVER been with anyone but falls for some random highschool chick because he can’t read her thoughts? Then when he dumps her he goes “J/k” and she goes right back to him? Bull.

2. The Notebook – Girl leaves her fucking FIANCE’ for some kid she hooked up with in 8th grade? What a slut. Why would she agree to marry someone if she’s going to leave him that easy?

Also, lol at the number 7. Answer. “Our’s is ok cuz it’s books hur hur”. Seriously? Are you that stupid? Just because it’s written word doesn’t make you superior in any way. There is PLENTY of literary porn for guys and girls out there. Also, in regards to the implications by the no. 7 answer originally posted, this is an example of the double standard stereotype that plagues romance stories.

Reply to answer 2 that was posted. So you wanna be like the heroines in the books? Do shit like leave your fiance’s for jr. high hook ups? Being shallow in every way? Only going for the hot guy? Damn, now THAT’S something to aspire to!

I could keep going, but I got bored. If you give this post negative feedback it’s only because you’re insecure from your novels and know I speak the truth. Have at it.