How Do Romance Award Winning Books Differ From Regular Romance Novels?

Romance award-winning books often stand out because they push the boundaries of the genre in storytelling, character depth, or thematic exploration. While regular romance novels might stick to familiar tropes like enemies-to-lovers or fake relationships, award-winning works tend to weave richer narratives that resonate emotionally and intellectually. For example, 'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller won the Orange Prize for Fiction by blending romance with historical and mythological elements, creating a love story that feels epic yet deeply personal. These books often tackle complex themes like identity, trauma, or societal expectations, making them more than just love stories. They also tend to have more polished prose, with vivid descriptions and nuanced dialogue that elevate the reading experience. Regular romance novels, while enjoyable, might prioritize escapism and comfort over literary craftsmanship.

Award-winning romance novels often distinguish themselves through exceptional writing, originality, and emotional impact. Unlike many mainstream romance books that rely on predictable plots, these works surprise readers with fresh perspectives and layered characters. Take 'Normal People' by Sally Rooney, which won the Costa Book Award—it delves into the intricacies of a relationship with raw honesty, avoiding clichés. The pacing, too, is different; award-winners might slow down to explore inner conflicts or societal pressures, whereas regular romances focus on fast-paced chemistry.

Another key difference is thematic depth. Books like 'Call Me by Your Name' by André Aciman, which earned critical acclaim, explore love alongside loss, time, and self-discovery. They don’t just ask 'Will they end up together?' but 'What does loving someone cost?' Regular romances, while comforting, often sidestep these heavier questions. Award-winning books also tend to have more diverse settings and cultures, offering readers a broader view of love. For instance, 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo' by Taylor Jenkins Reid mixes romance with Hollywood history, creating a saga that feels grander than typical genre fare.

Lastly, the prose in award-winning romances is often more lyrical or experimental. Authors like Emily St. John Mandel ('Station Eleven') weave romance into larger narratives with poetic language, while mainstream romances prioritize accessibility. This doesn’t mean one is better—just that they serve different needs. Some days you want the complexity of 'Possession' by A.S. Byatt; other days, the straightforward charm of a Colleen Hoover novel.

The gap between award-winning romance novels and regular ones boils down to ambition and execution. Award-winners like 'The Time Traveler’s Wife' by Audrey Niffenegger aren’t content with just making readers swoon; they aim to leave a lasting impression by merging romance with other genres or unconventional structures. Regular romances, though fun, often follow a safer formula—meet-cute, conflict, happy ending—without much deviation.

Award-winning books also invest heavily in character development. In 'Chemistry' by Weike Wang, the protagonist’s emotional journey is as central as her romantic arc. This depth makes the love story feel earned rather than rushed. Meanwhile, mainstream romances might prioritize instant attraction over gradual bonding. Settings play a role too. While typical romances use cozy small towns or big cities, award-winners might opt for surreal landscapes, like the magical realism in 'The Night Circus,' which adds layers to the central romance.

Another standout feature is authenticity. Books like 'On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous' by Ocean Vuong tackle love with brutal honesty, addressing race, class, and trauma. Regular romances, while heartfelt, often gloss over these complexities to maintain a lighter tone. Both types have their place—sometimes you crave the sophistication of an award-winner; other times, the simplicity of a feel-good read like 'The Hating Game.'