Romance novels have long been derided in popular culture, described as "Mommy Porn," or smut or accused of giving women "unrealistic expectations" or being anti-feminist or un-serious. 

But romance novels are the highest earning genre in fiction, earning over 1.4 billion dollars a year and selling over 39 million printed books in a single year. In addition to being master storytellers, romance novel authors are attorneys and supreme court clerks, playwrights, trauma therapists, and scientists. They are Shakespeare professors and surgeons. Romance readers are just as accomplished.

Romance novels center women's experiences, emotions, and desires, offering readers a space where love, connection, and personal growth are celebrated. They challenge societal norms by portraying diverse relationships and strong, complex characters who often defy traditional roles. Beyond their entertainment value, romance novels provide hope and a sense of empowerment, reminding us of the importance of every individual's journey towards happiness and fulfillment.

The genre, the authors and the fans deserve better.
 
The Happily Ever After Society is a photography book that aims to celebrate and elevate romance novels and their authors, giving the genre the respect and accolades it deserves. 

The book will consist of photos and interviews with legendary romance novel authors as well as some up and coming Bookstagram and Booktok stars. We’ll learn all about inspires them, what it takes to make it as an author in today’s changing world, as well as how they craft a compelling Happily Ever After. Additionally, the book will showcase cinematically photographed scenes from some of your favorite romance novels and essays about the genre from some of the most knowledgeable authors out there. 

This book is a love letter to a genre that has given me so much comfort, laughter and companionship over the last 30 years of my life. My hope is that in making something that I want to exist in the world, I’m making something for you, too. 

-Chandra Wicke, Photographer & Creator of The HEA Society

About the book