Why did you set up the New Romantics?

Romantic fiction has an enormous readership, but is largely ignored by critics or the serious literary establishment.

Kate had the idea after hearing about The Murder Squad, a group of crime writers who work together to promote their genre to a wide readership, and I thought it'd be great to do the same with our genre. Often when people think of love stories, they think of Mills and Boon, which obviously has legions of fans, but the genre is far wider than that.

Some people have very strange ideas about readers and authors of romantic fiction - that we're old-fashioned or somehow deluded about the realities of life. Well, we think we're pretty typical of the audience - we're intelligent professional people with satisfying lives who happen to like happy endings. And with the world in the shape it is at the moment, then escapism has to be a good thing!

I'm a member of a reading group - why should we consider choosing a love story or new romantic novel?

Because we all need a little romance in our lives? Or to strike a blow for women's rights? Seriously, it's a bit of both. The kind of fiction we write can come in for some bad press - so why not see for yourself? Our novels cover topics from long-distance love, through divorce, affairs, parenthood and bereavement. As well as classic garden design, secret shopping and marine mammals. You won't be short of topics to discuss.

I'm organising a festival - what can you offer me?

Take a look at some of our suggestions on the talks and workshops page - we like to think we're innovative and we also love to react to ideas or briefs, so do contact us to discuss your requirements.

I'm a reader development professional - why should I consider the New Romantics?

As you'll know, romantic fiction and love stories are tremendously popular with library users - and we're the first group offering an emphasis on contemporary fiction. We can also offer events to appeal to different age groups or kinds of readers. And it goes without saying that we're huge fans of libraries ourselves.

How much notice do you need?

Depends on what you're looking for - but as we're located around the UK, we might be able to surprise you with our amazing reaction time!

How much will it cost to have a visit from the New Romantics?

We work to Society of Authors guidelines, but it does depend on how much travelling time and preparation is needed, and other factors. So do drop us an email with ideas about what you're looking for and we'll be able to give you more information.

And if there's another question you want to ask, contact us!