Here are 10 things that I really appreciate about science
fiction romance:
* Quite a few authors of science fiction romance tackle
subversion in various ways, e.g., characters, themes, and/or settings.
* SFR meets readers’ needs for stories that feature
eclectic/weird/off-the-beaten-path elements. This is one of my favorite ways to
broaden my horizons!
* SFR focuses on strong/unique/memorable heroines as a rule.
In other words, the subgenre makes it easy for readers to find stories that
include a heroine-centric focus (as opposed to
the hero-centric/worship/fetish).
* Authors of SFR incorporate action-adventure elements into
their stories. That kind of approach helps debunk the myth that female readers
don’t like action-adventure. Because many of us do and in a variety of mediums (e.g., books, graphic novels, films, and video games).
* SFR offers stories for romance readers who like to
actively engage with the text, whether that includes social commentary, hard SF
elements, more complex worldbuilding/plots, or all of the above.
* SFR is in a great position to prompt readers to question
their assumptions about issues like race, gender, and sexual orientation—but in
an entertaining way.
* Science fiction romance can meet the needs of readers who
enjoy the dual-hero dynamic. In other words, stories wherein the heroine and
hero jointly overcome a threat.
* SFR is infusing science fiction in general with a much
needed dose of character-driven stories as well as stories that speculate in
various ways about relationships and sexuality.
* Many science fiction romance authors have adapted to the
digital medium. That makes it easier for me to access
the stories, both in terms of time and affordability.
* Many authors of SFR persevere and take risks with their
stories despite the ongoing challenges of the subgenre's niche status. This is hugely
important because the easy thing to do would be to chase the bandwagons of
romance subgenres that are an easier “sell” at any given time. Instead, authors
keep supplying readers with SFR and for that I am grateful.
Are there any items you’d like to add to this list?
Joyfully yours,
Heather