In recent years, the romance genre has been diversifying to include characters of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. The demand for body-positive and inclusive stories is growing, and these 10-plus-size romance books are perfect for readers looking for a touching love story featuring relatable, well-developed characters with realistic body types.
Representation in literature is vital for building understanding and empathy, and the romance genre is no exception. When it comes to love stories, it’s important for readers to see characters who look like them, experiencing the full spectrum of emotions, adventures, and happily-ever-afters. For too long, plus-size characters have been relegated to sidekicks or relegated to jokes, but now, they’re stepping into the spotlight as romantic leads to be adored and admired.
Breaking Stereotypes in Plus Size Romance
One of the essential things that plus-size romance novels do is challenge stereotypes about larger bodies. The genre is moving away from the tired troupe of a plus-size character needing to lose weight or change themselves before finding love. Instead, these stories celebrate the beauty of diverse body types and challenge societal ideals about what love and attraction should look like.
Readers can find a wealth of plus-size characters in romance novels, from curvy heroines to muscular heroes. These characters are often complex, with their size being just one aspect of their personality. They can be confident, shy, funny, serious, and everything in between. The stories they inhabit are just as varied, ranging from sweet and tender to steamy and sensual.
By featuring plus-size characters as romantic leads, authors are providing readers with a new way to see themselves and others. They are showing that everyone deserves love and happiness, regardless of their size or appearance.
The Importance of Body Positivity in Literature
Body positivity is an essential theme in plus-size romance novels. These stories aim to teach readers to embrace their bodies and appreciate the differences that make each of us unique. Reading about characters with similar body types pursuing love and happiness can be empowering and inspiring, helping readers to find confidence and self-love within themselves.
Plus-size romance novels also work to break down harmful beauty standards and promote a more inclusive and diverse view of attractiveness. By featuring characters who are considered unconventional by society’s standards, these stories challenge readers to question their own biases and preconceptions.
Furthermore, plus-size romance novels can provide a sense of community and belong for readers who may feel marginalized or overlooked. These stories offer a space where readers can see themselves reflected positively and where they can find support and validation.
In conclusion, representation and body positivity are crucial elements in plus-size romance novels. By featuring diverse characters and promoting self-love and acceptance, these stories are helping to create a more inclusive and compassionate world.
The Top 5 Plus Size Romance Books by Established Authors
Plus-size romance novels have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering readers relatable and empowering stories that celebrate body positivity and self-love. Here are five of the best plus-size romance books by established authors that you won’t want to miss:
“Take a Hint, Dani Brown” by Talia Hibbert
In this charming romantic comedy, ambitious academic Dani Brown teams up with former rugby player Zafir Ansari for a fake relationship to benefit Zaf’s youth sports charity. As they spend more time together, they begin to realize that their pretend love might just be the real thing. Hibbert skillfully weaves body positivity, sharp humor, and emotional depth into a delightful and captivating story.
Readers will love the way Hibbert portrays the characters’ struggles with body image and self-doubt, and how they find strength and confidence in each other’s company. Dani and Zaf’s relationship is a testament to the power of love and acceptance and will leave readers feeling inspired and uplifted.
Stella, a brilliant yet socially awkward econometrician with Asperger’s syndrome, hires a handsome escort named Michael to teach her how to navigate romantic relationships. As their relationship deepens, Stella must learn to accept herself – and her body – unconditionally. This captivating debut novel highlights the importance of self-acceptance and breaks away from cookie-cutter romance norms.
Hoang’s novel is a refreshing take on the classic romance genre, offering readers a unique and nuanced perspective on love and relationships. The characters’ struggles with body image and self-worth are relatable and poignant, and the story is a powerful reminder of the importance of loving yourself for who you are.
This hilarious and heartfelt novel follows plus size fashion blogger Bea Schumacher as she becomes the first plus size star of a reality TV dating show. As she navigates fame, love, and body positivity in the public eye, readers are reminded of the importance of self-love and the beauty of different body types. Stayman-London’s powerful narrative showcases the courage it takes to break down barriers and fight for representation.
“One To Watch” is a must-read for anyone looking for a fun and empowering story about love and acceptance. Bea’s journey is a powerful reminder that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and that we should celebrate our differences rather than trying to conform to society’s narrow standards.
“Good in Bed” by Jennifer Weiner
Cannie Shapiro, a plus size newspaper reporter, begins a journey of self-discovery when her ex-boyfriend publishes an article about their relationship, calling her “lovable, but fat.” The novel weaves humor, drama, and romance into a powerful story of self-acceptance and personal growth. Weiner’s groundbreaking novel raises essential questions about society’s body standards and the effects of negative self-image on one’s sense of self-worth.
“Good in Bed” is a classic of the plus size romance genre, and a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful and inspiring story about loving yourself for who you are. Cannie’s journey is a testament to the power of self-acceptance and the importance of standing up for yourself in the face of adversity.
“If the Dress Fits” by Carla de Guzman
When Martha, a plus size veterinarian, agrees to be her cousin’s wedding planner, she reconnects with Max, a man she’s harbored a secret crush on since childhood. As their relationship deepens, Martha must learn to embrace her body and accept Max’s genuine love and admiration for her. “If the Dress Fits” is an uplifting and charming story that emphasizes the beauty of true love and self-acceptance.
De Guzman’s novel is a heartwarming and romantic tale that will leave readers feeling inspired and empowered. Martha’s journey is a powerful reminder that true love comes in many forms, and that we should never let our insecurities hold us back from happiness.
5 Up-and-Coming Plus Size Romance Books to Watch Out For
Are you a fan of romance novels? Do you love reading about characters who break the mold and challenge societal norms? Look no further than these 10-plus-size romance books, which offer a diverse range of characters and romantic storylines that prove that love truly comes in all shapes and sizes.
“Spooning Leads To Forking” by Bovary & Butterfly
In this delightful rom-com, a plus size food blogger named Lily takes a culinary tour of Europe, where she encounters an old flame named Teo. Their journey through delicious food, breathtaking locations, and the acknowledgment of their feelings forms the heart of this charming novel. With humor and heart, “Spooning Leads To Forking” highlights the importance of self-love and body positivity.
As Lily and Teo travel through Europe, they encounter a variety of different foods and cultures, opening their eyes to new experiences and perspectives. From the rich and savory flavors of French cuisine to the sweet and decadent desserts of Italy, Lily and Teo explore the world through their love of food and each other. Along the way, they also confront their own insecurities and learn to accept themselves for who they are.
“The Right Swipe” by Alisha Rai
When dating app creator Rhiannon reconnects with former hookup and retired football player Samson, sparks fly, but she’s wary of taking the plunge. As they navigate professional and personal challenges, they rekindle their passion and discover their compatibility. Alisha Rai deftly addresses body positivity, consent, and emotional vulnerability while crafting a steamy and engaging romance.
In “The Right Swipe,” Alisha Rai tackles important issues such as consent and emotional vulnerability, which are often overlooked in traditional romance novels. By portraying Rhiannon and Samson as complex and multifaceted characters, Rai challenges readers to look beyond surface-level appearances and embrace the beauty of inner strength and self-acceptance.
“Size Matters” by Alison Bliss
Leah, a plus size bakery owner, struggles with her body image and her romantic life. However, when she meets a handsome personal trainer named Sam, she begins to accept herself as she is and realizes that true love is more than skin deep. “Size Matters” offers an honest and relatable portrayal of the challenges people face while trying to find love and self-acceptance.
As Leah grapples with her insecurities, she also learns to appreciate her own unique talents and strengths. Through her passion for baking and her determination to succeed, Leah discovers that her worth extends far beyond her physical appearance. With “Size Matters,” Alison Bliss offers a refreshing and empowering take on the traditional romance genre.
“Dumplin'” by Julie Murphy
In this heartwarming and powerful novel, plus size teenager Willowdean enters a local beauty pageant to challenge conventional beauty standards and catch the attention of her crush. Along the way, she learns to embrace her body and discover her inner strength. “Dumplin” is a touching coming-of-age story that emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and self-esteem, regardless of one’s body size.
Through Willowdean’s journey, Julie Murphy highlights the importance of self-acceptance and self-love, encouraging readers to embrace their own unique qualities and celebrate their individuality. With its relatable characters and powerful message, “Dumplin'” is a must-read for anyone who has ever struggled with body image.
“When Dimple Met Rishi” by Sandhya Menon
Two Indian-American teenagers, Dimple and Rishi, meet at a summer program, discovering their parents have arranged for them to be married. As they become friends and eventually fall in love, both teenage protagonists navigate their cultural backgrounds and body image issues. With humor and heart, “When Dimple Met Rishi” emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment and challenges cultural norms surrounding beauty.
Through Dimple and Rishi’s relationship, Sandhya Menon explores the complexities of cultural identity and the challenges of navigating societal expectations. By portraying Dimple and Rishi as strong and independent characters, Menon encourages readers to embrace their own unique qualities and reject societal pressures to conform to a narrow definition of beauty.
These 10 plus size romance books offer a diverse range of characters and romantic storylines, proving that love truly comes in all shapes and sizes. By breaking stereotypes and embracing body positivity, these authors are changing the way readers view romance and beauty, cultivating a world of literature that truly represents – and empowers – all of us.
FAQs
What is the appeal to plus-size romance novels?
Many plus-size readers find comfort and inspiration in these novels. Some find it hard to make romantic connections themselves and reading about body and sexual confidence through the lens of similar characters can be empowering.
Who is a good author of plus-size romance novels?
Olivia Dade has written a plethora of interesting plus size romance books including Spoiler Alert, and Teach Me. However, other authors include Talia Hibbert, Amy Daws, and Lila Rose.
What are some good examples of plus size romance books?
One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London, If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy, and The Fastest Way to Fall by Denise Williams are all popular romance books featuring plus size characters.
Eddison Monroe, born 1990 in Portland, Oregon, is an accomplished and celebrated female writer and independent author. The youngest of three siblings, Eddison's passion for storytelling began during her childhood as she entertained her family with vivid tales and fantastical characters. Her nurturing environment and the encouragement of her parents, both educators, played a crucial role in shaping her literary aspirations.
Eddison's writing often explores themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her works are characterized by their lyrical prose, intricate world-building, and strong, multidimensional female characters.
A strong advocate for independent publishing, Eddison frequently conducts workshops and seminars to guide budding writers in navigating the world of self-publishing. She also serves as a mentor for aspiring authors, providing them with the knowledge and tools to pursue their dreams.
