Get ready for a behind-the-scenes deep dive into the evolution of the romance genre with Erin Galloway, publicity director at Berkley. We’re talking everything from the rise of alpha-holes and billionaire heroes in the 2010s, to the explosion of rom-coms, monster clinch covers, and the TikTok takeover. Erin shares how reader behavior, media coverage, and marketing trends have shifted—and what’s coming next.

We also fangirl over iconic books, the power of cover design, and the wild ride of getting romance media attention in mainstream outlets like The Today Show and People magazine. If you’ve ever wondered how books get buzz—or just want your TBR to explode—this episode is for you.

📚 Mentioned books and series:

Classic & Influential Romance:

• Lord of the Fading Lands by C.L. Wilson
• Dark Prince by Christine Feehan

Notable 2010s Trends (Erotic/Billionaire/Alpha):

• Bared to You (Crossfire series) by Sylvia Day
• Rush (Breathless series) by Maya Banks
• The Perfect Play (Play by Play series) by Jaci Burton
• The Submissive by Tara Sue Me
• Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James

Upcoming / Current Berkley Releases:

• Willing Prey by Allie Oleander
• Princess of Blood by Sarah Hawley
• By the Horns by Ruby Dixon
• Love Is a War Song by Danica Nava
• ZomRomCom by Olivia Dade
• Boots Beneath Her Bed by Taylor Esposito (Spring 2026)

Recent Releases Erin’s Excited About:

• Flirting Lessons by Jasmine Guillory (her first sapphic romance)
• Servant of the Earth by Sarah Hawley (book 1 in the romantasy series)
• The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava (already out)

Series/Authors Mentioned:

• Ice Planet Barbarians series by Ruby Dixon
• Anne Bishop (foundational romantasy author)

🗂️ Want the full series on Romance Genre Evolution by the Decades? Start here

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