RNA 'demands respect' as romantic fiction excluded from Sunday Times best books list

The Romantic Novelists’ Association (RNA) has written an open letter to Andrew Holgate, literary editor of the Sunday Times, complaining that romantic fiction was excluded from the newspaper's Best Books of 2021 round-up.

The letter received 496 signatures in just over 24 hours. It states: "At the time the round-up was published, two of our author members were in the Sunday Times top 10 bestsellers chart, with Phillipa Ashley at number nine and Milly Johnson holding the number two spot. To have romantic fiction occupying a fifth of the top 10 is a huge achievement. It was, therefore, astonishing that in an article claiming to include every genre, romance was nowhere to be seen."

The original title for the article was "The 33 best books of 2021—from every genre". This has since been updated to "The 33 best books of 2021".

In a press statement, the RNA said it had decided it was time to "stand up and demand that well-earned and overdue respect" and said it would be offering to work with all media representatives in a bid to bring about "much-needed change".

In its open letter, the organisation said romantic fiction "plays a crucial role in financially underpinning the industry" and suggested a separate list just for thegenre. It added: "Many of our members are upset and angry at the dismissal of the genre they love and are proud to write and read—a genre that is in fact a multibillion-dollar industry. Booksellers and librarians have dedicated romantic fiction sections, the publishing industry recognises the genre, and so do millions of readers. How can you possibly justify your failure to acknowledge us?

"The general snobbery towards these wonderful, intelligent, creative and supportive people is nothing new—but the complete erasure of our genre is a step too far. The perception of romantic fiction needs to change across the whole industry, and you are in a position to be able to influence that change. We have lots of ideas, and would welcome the chance to work with you. Are you up for the challenge?"

Acting RNA chair Jean Fullerton said: “Romantic fiction is the financial backbone of the publishing industry and brings countless joy to millions of readers. We’ve earned our place in the literary world and refuse to be ignored.”

Holgate declined to comment when approached by The Bookseller.