Dang Proud To Be A Romance Reader
Feb 27th 2007
Nicole JordanGoddess Readers Speak Out
It’s tough being a romance reader cause we don’t get no respect. Just last week a clerk at my local Barnes&Noble bookstore told me, “My colleagues laugh at me because I read romances.” And this from people who presumably love books!
It gets me riled to hear the most common snide remark: “Oh, you read those kinds of books.”
“What kinds of books?” I ask, gritting my teeth.
“Oh, you know. Those.”
.
Some people think I should apologize for my reading tastes. Many look down their noses at me. But I don’t like looking up anyone’s nose, so I’ve tried to devise some snappy comebacks along with some serious ones. I smile sweetly and respond like this:
.
“So you read those trashy romances.”
a) Yes… Nora Roberts, Jane Austen, Shakespeare… It’s my shameful little secret.<wink>
b) Yes, they suit me don’t you think? <flirtatious smile>
c) You bet I do. Jealous?
d) Yes, I and about 65 million other people.
e) What’s trashy about a man and a woman overcoming obstacles to find true love?
“So you read those bodice rippers.”
a) Actually, the physics and engineering involved in bodice ripping would be quite complex.
b) Ever try ripping a whalebone corset or padded underwire bra? I’d like to see how far you get.
c) Romance novels have evolved greatly in the past two decades. These days, real heroes would never be so uncouth as to rip a bodice. They would remove it with great expertise, employing the skills they’ve developed as splendid lovers.
“Those romance heroes are too perfect to be real.”
a) What’s wrong with perfect?
b) You show me a perfect man, I’ll show you an alien.
c) I’ve got a real man. I’m looking for a good fantasy.
And if your snide remark happens to come from a man…
d) Are you worried you can’t compete?
“Only uneducated housewives read those.”
a) When was the last time you met a housewife?
b) Have you checked the education level of housewives today?
c) Since romances are the best-selling books in America, that’s a lot of housewives.
d) Along with educated housewives, engineers, nurses, lawyers, teachers, firefighters….
“Romance readers are hard-up for sex.”
a) And you think that because…?
b) It gives us a goal to work toward.
c) Don’t you wish?
d) A lot of romance readers have very satisfying love lives because we know what “good” sex is.
“Those romance novels are all porn – only about sex.”
a) Oh? Are you a big expert on porn?
b) You have something against sex? What are you, a prude?
c) And they do amazing things for your sex life. You really don’t know what you’re missing.
c) No, they’re about love.
“Those romance novels are all alike.”
a) Really? So you’ve read a lot of them?
b) Yeah, they have a hero, heroine, romance, and a happy ending. Would you pick up a murder mystery and not expect to learn “who done it”?
c) You can say that about any kind of book you don’t happen to like. I understand that psychologically, it’s your way of trying to feel superior. <smiling sweetly again> But it doesn’t work on me.
“Why don’t you read real books?”
a) Funny, they look real to me.
b) Like Jane Eyre, Gone With the Wind, David Copperfield, Little Women…? You don’t consider those real books?
I’m too nice a person to say what I’m really thinking sometimes. But if I were Rosie O’Donnell, I could go the nasty route:
c) Have you ever even read a romance novel? Can you read, period?
d) Do you realize how badly your ignorance is showing?
And probably my favorite from one of my writer friends:
e) Warning: This book contains hope, love, and happiness. Not intended for those suffering in immature ignorance.
.
Some remarks deserve total disdain, but I can’t help wanting to respond – to justify and defend my passion. Saying something at least makes me feel better.
I’m a romance reader and dang proud of it. A die-hard, unadulterated, unabashed, unapologetic fanatic. You’ll have to peel a romance novel from my cold, stiff fingers to lay me in my grave.
So get off my case. I am a RO-MANCE-READ-ER – so there! <sticking tongue out in juvenile fashion>
.
I would love, however, to have some better retorts to use the next time some ignoramus questions my passion. So in the spirit of our recent joke-title contest and the great titles you goddesses came up with, how could I have replied to any of those comments? (stronger, wittier, snarkier, more suggestive) What’s the worst thing anyone has ever said to you about your romance habit? And what comeback did you respond with – or wish you’d responded with?
63 Comments »
63 Responses to “Dang Proud To Be A Romance Reader”
krissyinva on 27 Feb 2007 at 8:03 am #
I need caffeine, but I usually say something like “Is there anything wrong with watching romantic movies or romantic comedies?” then “Well it’s basically the same thing except you learn more in the books and you use your own mind as well”
Maggie Robinson on 27 Feb 2007 at 8:27 am #
1.I not only read romance, I live it. (Then smile mysteriously.)
2.Yeah, romance. Two heterosexual people who commit to each other forever. Shocking, isn’t it? What kind of people do you like to read about?
3.One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. What kind of trash do you read?
ashefrog on 27 Feb 2007 at 8:40 am #
My husband doesn’t seem to mind reaping the benefits of my reading habits!
But honestly, I blow off the comments. I don’t care what other ignorant people think of my reading, musical or movie/TV preferences. I work at a university in the Classical Studies dept. and I have books on my desk all the time. I have never had a word said to me about it, but at times I wonder what they think.
But not enough to hide my books or reading preference.
Love the “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” but don’t you mean “woman” LOL
AndreaW on 27 Feb 2007 at 8:42 am #
Every one of my ex-boyfriends called my romance novels “smut”, “trash” or “porn”. And that’s why they are exes…well, that and a lot of other reasons. I knew my hubby was “the one” because he didn’t call them anything other than “romance novels”. Plus, he supports my habit. LOL!
Whenever someone at the bookstore gives me the look (you know, the one with the arched eyebrow), I just smile. And if anyone asks, I say, “I’m proud to read them.” I am proud and not the least bit ashamed to read them in public. Hurrah for romance authors!!
kimber on 27 Feb 2007 at 9:34 am #
My sister in law once saw I was reading a romance and commented “Oh, you read that smut.” I was appalled so I said “better to read it than to watch it.” Not necessarily the best come back but oh well. My books are my treasure. They take me away from my everyday life. And my husband has no complaints that I read romance. I proudly have my books in a bookshelf in the living room for anyone to see. Just let them comment, the smart people know beter. lol
Julia London on 27 Feb 2007 at 9:55 am #
I’ve been pretty lucky, I guess. No one has really dissed my writing or reading romance. Some will make remarks about my “expertise,” which I let them believe I have, LOL.
But its my family. They are all faithful readers of my books, but not the genre. They all claim to like my books, but they want something else.
My mother wants me to write a mystery — “like Agatha Christie. Those were so good.”
My dad wants me to write a western: “When are you going to write a good, meaty western?” he says, swinging his fist in good, meaty, gunslinging fashion.
And one sister doesn’t understand why I don’t write straight historical: “But not everything that happened had a love story. Think of all the intriguing people you could right about, like Elizabeth I, or William Wallace, or I know! Thomas Becket, or whatever his name was, who died on the battlefield with his sons.”
Sigh.
My husband, however, doesn’t care what I write. He loves that I write. Okay, yes, he would like to see a major league baseball player or scandal in every book, but if it doesn’t fit the time period, he’s just as proud that it has romance in it.
And what do I say to them all when they suggest I write something else? “Huh.” Sorry to disappoint, but I never really know what to say!
Laurie0514 on 27 Feb 2007 at 11:20 am #
Hellooo Goddesses! I have finally been able to log in and have really enjoyed reading the blog. You all ROCK!!!!
Sabrina Jeffries on 27 Feb 2007 at 11:21 am #
I confess I’m not good with the snappy comebacks. I’ve always loved the one Maggie mentioned though, for when they say they don’t read “that trash”–”Oh, what kind of trash DO you read?” I’ve never had a chance to use it, though, because by the time somebody told me they used it, no one was saying it to me.
Mostly, I just get polite looks of horror. It’s hard to come back to a look of horror.
The worst thing anyone ever said was when I sold my very first book and a guy I worked with said, “Oh, you write crotch books.” CROTCH BOOKS???? I confess I was speechless.
My parents are Southern Baptist missionaries, so they would MUCH prefer I wrote something else. Mom calls the sex stuff “junk”, and Dad suggested that I should write poetry or Agatha Christie type books (they love Agatha Christie). I just smile. They know by now that I’m going to do what I want.
ladydawgfan on 27 Feb 2007 at 11:41 am #
I have had to deal with this a LOT with my mother (my sister and I share reading tastes). She cannot understand why I love reading romances, and constantly refers to them as trash books. I can’t use a snappy comeback since she is my Mom, so I just smile and talk about the historical accuracy and how the storylines are not just about sex.
As to work situations, I don’t really care what people think about what I am reading. They aren’t the ones holding the book, I am, and as far as I am concerned, that means that their opinion as to my choice of reading material is a moot point!!
RachelG on 27 Feb 2007 at 11:58 am #
I stopped defending the genre a while ago when I realized it was a total waste of time. Some people have a need to feel superior and smarter, and there is nothing you can say that will change these people’s minds. I have a theory that these same people would make bigoted comments about minorities, if it weren’t so publicly un-pc.
Some people just make derisive comments out of ignorance because it’s what they’ve heard or read and they think it makes them sound smart. Like saying something derogatory gives them a pass to the cool table. To them I say, “I write mass market fiction, not porn.” Then I usually smile and add, “and I do very well with the masses.” This makes them crazy.
claudia dain on 27 Feb 2007 at 1:08 pm #
I can’t remember the last time someone said anything nasty to me about my books. In fact, I’m not sure anyone ever did! I think there must be something about me that warns people off.
Sabrina! Don’t you dare tell people about my black aura of death!
I do think the best defense is, strangely, none at all.
The harder you try to convince someone of something, the more determined they are to fight you, if only to prove that they’re RIGHT. I don’t have any interest in playing that game.
Nicole Jordan on 27 Feb 2007 at 1:54 pm #
Krissy… that’s what I don’t understand, why some people think reading romances is mindless when they’re a great way to exercise your mind.
Maggie, great answers! I’m gonna write those down.
And AndreaW, I lol’d at your reason for getting rid of your boyfriends. Smart woman.
Ashefrog, you are obviously a very strong woman! Frankly I’m amazed that if you work in the Classics dept, you’ve never gotten ragged for your reading tastes. Must be a special place to work.
Wecome to the GBlogs, Laurie! Sorry if you had trouble logging on.
ladydawgfan, I just have to ask, are you a UGA fan?
That’s wonderful that your dh is so supportive, Julia.
Crotch books??? CROTCH books??? Ewwe. That’s a new one for me and really reaches a low point, lol.
As for moms, I’m really lucky I guess. My mom loves everything I write and was the one who introduced me to romances in the first place. I’ll always cherish her for that!
NicoleJ
Suzanne Enoch on 27 Feb 2007 at 2:32 pm #
Ah, the old “smut book” comments. They used to bother me, but my skin’s gotten thicker, I think. Now when I get “oh, you read smut books?” I just smile and say “you betcha.” For the “oh, you write smut books?” I smile and say “you betcha. And they sell like crazy.”
Maureen on 27 Feb 2007 at 2:33 pm #
The worst I’ve heard is people calling romances “those types of books”. The funny thing is that you throw a romance in a televsion series like Friends and the ratings go up so why are romance novels looked down upon.
Julia London on 27 Feb 2007 at 2:35 pm #
Right, Maureen. Its like Lost. You want to know what the deal is with that island, yes…but you really want to know if Kate ends up with Jack or Sawyer, right?
(Sawyer!!! I vote for Sawyer!!! Although I would take Jack as a consolation prize any time!!!!)
Susan K on 27 Feb 2007 at 2:45 pm #
My ex-boyfriend used to call them “my trashy books”. I always told him until you read one I don’t want to hear your comments. It never worked but then again he was a jerk and that’s why he is now an ex.
My fiance supports my romance reading and my desire to write it. He won’t read one but he also doesn’t trash them.
No one else has commented on them to me. I (unfortunately) used to be one of those people, in middle school. I turned my nose down at them until my curiosty got the better of me in high school. After that first romance book I was hooked!!! So I always tell people until you read one I don’t want to hear your negative comments.
Nicole Jordan on 27 Feb 2007 at 2:47 pm #
kimber on 27 Feb 2007
>>> My books are my treasure. They take me away from my everyday life.
So beautifully put, Kimber! You’re definitely a woman after my own heart.
Susan K on 27 Feb 2007
>>> After that first romance book I was hooked!!!
I couldn’t agree more, Susan. People ought to give romances a chance before dissing them.
NicoleJ
ashefrog on 27 Feb 2007 at 2:48 pm #
Nicole:
Don’t know about the special place to work, though I like the faculty I work with. I just wonder if they just keep their opinions to themselves regarding my reading preferences. “Oh she is one of those”
Of course I have been known to ask for Mythology books and ancient societies references to understand better our past, plus get ideas or do research for my writing. They eat that stuff up when you ask for advice or information about the topics they are passionate about.
Now that I think about it, your right - not a bad place to work.
TheNightPoet on 27 Feb 2007 at 3:09 pm #
I haven’t really had much of a problem with anyone dissing my romance reading. But every now and then there will be someone out there who says something along the lines of, “You actually read that stuff?” and then I give them a frown and say, “Yeah? Would you rather I go home and watch porn?”
Andrea
P.S. As for romance novels being porn on a page, I’ve read a romance book where it practically was porn on a page and let me tell you it didn’t even compare to the romance novels I read. That book disgusted me with it’s dirty language. (i.e. the f-bomb was dropped I don’t know how many times, nothing was described in a way that was sensual or romantic, the words used to describe the women’s body parts were dirty and tasteless) The book frustrated me so much that I threw it against the wall and have not finished reading it yet! Speaking of that book, I don’t even know where it is. lol (don’t tell my friend that gave it to me for a present that I did that. lol)
Judy F on 27 Feb 2007 at 4:36 pm #
My boss when I first started asked me what type of books I liked to read. (I work part time in a bookstore as well). I told her romance, romantic suspense. And I got the “I only read Fiction” answer from her, you know the best sellers. GaG. She just isn’t a romance HEA type of reader and I am. We have come to respect each others differences. I wish she would give romance a try.
We have had a couple of customers trash Romance books but its funny since my boss and I are huge romance readers. I generally ask if they have read the genre.
I can tell you from a bookseller point of view. Romance readers rock, they are fun to talk to and very seldom buy just one book. (I know this from personal experience.)
I don’t know what I do w/o my Romance books, they help me unwind after a crappy day and take me far away from the every day. You writers rock.
Sabrina Jeffries on 27 Feb 2007 at 4:51 pm #
Don’t listen to Claudia about her “black aura of death.” She merely has the air of a woman who doesn’t take crap from people who don’t know what they’re talking about. We should all look like that, believe me. I am trying very hard to learn how to do it. But mostly I just go everywhere with Claudia and let her carry it for the both of us.
OV_099 on 27 Feb 2007 at 5:53 pm #
Hmm, I don’t have anything snappy for you because I can’t say that it’s happen to me yet, after these past couple years buying and reading them. Actually, I think it’s a few years now.
But I might have people wondering about my book selections — because I’ll hand a bunch of romance novels to the cashier with a bunch of science/physics books. LOL But hey, science doesn’t always give answers, or it takes a while to find it, or you just have to look at the back of the book for it. Romances you know what the answer at the back of the book is going to be, long before you ever get to the end. 
Lois
Ronlyn on 27 Feb 2007 at 8:10 pm #
My mom and mother-in-law are really the only ones who have ever said anything about what I read. My mother-in-law turns bright red and says, “I don’t want to know that much about your sex life!” whever I offer for her to borrow a book. LOL.
My mom uses the term “smut” to refer to my romances…to which I always have to point out that SHE is the one I got most of my first Johanna Lindsey books from.” *rolling my eyes* And then the conversation rolls into something like, “Yes, but that was before I got my man.” “Well, my man doesn’t complain AT ALL about my reading material. In fact, he really enjoys it.” At which point SHE turns red and tells me she doesn’t want to know that much about my sex life. LOL.
Other than the two of them, I can’t recall anyone ever saying anything about my reading choices.
Brandy on 27 Feb 2007 at 8:22 pm #
I worry that erotica will become assocoated as romance. It’s not.
I have never been asked why I read romance or had anyone comment on it. My husband knows I read it and it’s fine with him. If anyone did ever make a comment, I’m not sure if I am witty enough to have a comeback, other than to say: I enjoy them, millions enjoy them. Why don’t you give them a try.
dbrown3400 on 27 Feb 2007 at 10:15 pm #
Nicole, I don’t believe I can improve on any of your replies. I would have told all of them, “And your point is?” and walked away but that’s just me. I had to laugh at the thought of ripping whalebone.
I read all genres now since I write reviews, but my loves are romances, primarily historical, and an occasional mystery thrown in. Naturally the only books someone wants an explanation for while I’m reading in public, well you know, are romances. First I give them the title of the book. If that isn’t enough I say, “It’s an historical and the author has done a tremendous amount of research. Then if they keep bugging me, I tell them it’s a romance and I’M ON MY BREAK.” I know it’s begging the question, but it’s only a fifteen minute break. Although I’ve been reading romances since the eighties, every minute counts.
Donna
Nicole Jordan on 27 Feb 2007 at 11:34 pm #
You guys have really made me laugh with your answers. Thank you! Don’t know why I’m so sensitive on the subject, but it does gall me. I envy those of you who never get the snide comments or who have the willpower to just let it roll off. I just wanna slug the people who feel so superior for no good reason. Why should my bookseller friend have to suffer her colleagues’ disdain? Ok, I’ll get off my soapbox now, I promise!
I’m not good with witty comebacks either. What usually happens is that it’ll be many hours later when I finally figure out what I should have said. Ususally when I’m lying awake at 4am still stewing.
I just had a friend e-mail me, and she said she responded to the trashy romances comment with “how pathetic people are who don’t think they need love and happiness in their lives.” I think that says a lot.
Maybe I need to hire Claudia to come be my bodyguard! I’ll bet Sabrina isn’t willing to part with her, though *G*.
NicoleJ
KMB25 on 28 Feb 2007 at 12:20 am #
Hehe…I’ve really enjoyed reading how everyone deals with this! I have enjoyed reading the Romance genre for a number of years and have heard so many of the same awful lines and have come to a few helpful conclusions. Most people who say these things have probably NEVER read a romance novel and are too narrowminded to even try one. Although, the funniest response I have ever heard was from my husband before we were married! I shyly confessed that I really liked to read romance novels and he said, “you mean the throbbing member books?!” To which I replied,” Yep…they give me some great ideas…and I love the stories!” He has since reaped the many benefits of my reading experience and continues to buy lots of books for me!
~KMB
KMB25 on 28 Feb 2007 at 12:33 am #
ps….I laughed out loud about that comment about bodice-ripping! I’m a fiddle player, that has been playing with a band lately that plays A LOT of historical re-enactments and heritage festivals around the country. As a woman who now has to wear a fully-boned set of stays (AKA a corset, or bodice if you will) in 18th-century clothing there is NO WAY IN HELL that anyone will be ripping through it…trust me…those suckers are practically bullet-proof!
Nicole Jordan on 28 Feb 2007 at 12:38 am #
KMB25 on 28 Feb 2007
>>> Although, the funniest response I have ever heard was from my husband before we were married! I shyly confessed that I really liked to read romance novels and he said, “you mean the throbbing member books?!” To which I replied,” Yep…they give me some great ideas…and I love the stories!” He has since reaped the many benefits of my reading experience and continues to buy lots of books for me!
LOL! Love it, KMB. And that’s great to hear about your hubby being so supportive.
And I totally agree with your second post!!
I never have understood the ‘bodiceripper’ dig. Bodices really did make great armor for a lady, and until the 1830’s, women didn’t wear any kind of underwear on their lower limbs. The first drawers were only two legs held together by a waistband tape, totally open in the front and back. The first bloomers were considered fast, even scandalous. So a villain or hero didn’t have to go to the trouble of ripping any bodices. All he had to do was lift a lady’s skirts and she was totally unprotected. Doesn’t make a lick of sense to me why people would think bodice ripping played a role in even the early romances — unless of course they had never read a romance…
Ok, I really WILL shut up now. *G*
NicoleJ
Aimee on 28 Feb 2007 at 12:38 am #
This was my favorite LOL:
Maggie Robinson’s
2.Yeah, romance. Two heterosexual people who commit to each other forever. Shocking, isn’t it? What kind of people do you like to read about?
If it’s guy who gives me grief such as calling them my “dirty books” or “paper porn” I always say “What, are you afraid you might learn something? A woman should BE so lucky as to meet the kind of men I find between these pages!” That always, without fail, shuts them up LOL
A friend or co-worker who gives me grief, (like my mom calling them the much overused phrase “bodice rippers”) I just give one to them and tell them to make an educated decision. Every single one who actually read one is now a convert. My mom has even become a fan, even though it took a while of me nagging her to read one LOL
Great topic, don’t feel bad about getting riled Nicole, I’m right there with you!
Nicole Jordan on 28 Feb 2007 at 12:45 am #
Aimee on 28 Feb 2007
>>>If it’s guy who gives me grief such as calling them my “dirty books” or “paper porn” I always say “What, are you afraid you might learn something? A woman should BE so lucky as to meet the kind of men I find between these pages!” That always, without fail, shuts them up LOL
Oh, that is great, Aimee! I’m gonna write that down.
NicoleJ
TheNightPoet on 28 Feb 2007 at 12:26 pm #
You now this conversation has reminded me about my First Amendment class. lol There was a case back in the 60’s I think, (Shhh…don’t tell my teacher I can’t remember the exact year. haha) that was about banning the so-called “bodice-rippers”. He even brought a romance novel in to show us what he was talking about. (I had one of those secretive smirks while he was giving this lecture.) Anyway, he showed us this romance novel and even read the little excerpt that they have at the beginning of the book. It was hilarious. He read it in a sarcastic, funny way that just had us rolling. His point was that the so-called “bodice rippers” were not dangerous to people that wanted to read them, even though there were people that said they were. He said, “Like this book is harmful.” (said in a sarcastic voice) He even said, it’s up to the person who chooses to read it, whether or not they want to read it, so who cares?
Andrea
Adrienne on 28 Feb 2007 at 12:42 pm #
Adrienne’s husband Tom this time, actually.
My wife has been a hardcore romance reader since she was a teenager, hiding romance novels under her bed. In her early twenties, when we were still just dating, Adrienne decided she wanted to try her hand at writing romance. She said that she wanted me to read what she wrote and be her sounding board but only after I had read a few romance novels so I knew what she was shooting for. I gladly accepted.
From the first few pages of my first Connie Brockway novel almost ten years ago, to the last pages of the latest Dark Hunter novel a few days ago, I have been a huge romance fan. I think the lack of respect the romance community gets from the rest of the litterary world is a tragedy. I also don’t understand why guys have such a problem with romance novels and keep complaining about unreal expectations that are put forth by them.
True love rocks and will be worth writing about until the end of time.
Nicole Jordan on 28 Feb 2007 at 1:45 pm #
Your prof sounds like a really cool guy, AndreaTNP! We should all be so lucky as to have teachers like that.
And WOW, Tom! The support you’ve given your wife is terrific. I thought I was really fortunate to have a great dh who’s been with me every step of my writing career, through all the ups and more of the downs. But the most he’s done for my actual writing is to help me work out suspense or action subplots. You’ve gone much futher… and discovered the joy in reading romances to boot. Huge kudos to you!
And welcome to the Goddess Blogs, Tom! We’d love to have you post under your real name. I know we’re mostly women here, but you don’t have to be a goddess, you can be a god! IMO, you’re well on your way to being one anyway. *BG*
NicoleJ
Julia London on 28 Feb 2007 at 5:04 pm #
I love that you came out to us, Tom! :-). I know there are men out there who read them because I get emails from them. But they certainly won’t identify themselves in a crowd, LOL. Sometimes I think men are bigger softies than women.
Nicole Jordan on 28 Feb 2007 at 6:09 pm #
KMB25 on 28 Feb 2007
>>> I’m a fiddle player, that has been playing with a band lately that plays A LOT of historical re-enactments and heritage festivals around the country.
KMB, I meant to say that sounds really cool! How in the world did you get into something like that?
NicoleJ
Stephanie on 28 Feb 2007 at 8:04 pm #
No one has ever said anything to me about it. But I would probably tell them that reading is my way of relaxing and my getaway from a busy schedule. I have to take time out for myself when I can. The problem with reading is I always finish a book too soon because I can’t put it down. I have to know what happens next.
KMB25 on 28 Feb 2007 at 11:37 pm #
Nicole,
Well, actually I kinda just “fell” right into it…hehe. (not the bodice…that was a little more difficult to put on!)
Actually, I got into playing with a Celtic band after I spent a summer in Ireland because they needed a ’sub’ fiddle player and it became permanent pretty much after that. While playing at a Highland Games here in the South, one of the bands that we’d been playing alongside for three years mentioned they were going to Ireland and I asked, “need a fiddle player?” They called me when they got back from Ireland (I couldn’t go anyways…I got married instead..hehe) and now I’ve been appearing with them whenever I’m not on the road with my main band.
Somewhat of a long story…but it’s fun! When we play the historical re-enactments, it’s almost like I get to play a part…I can be as much of a “wench” as I want to..hehe..or not! When I first started, I didn’t have much of a ‘costume’… just borrowing someone’s stays and petticoats with no shortgown to wear overtop, so I had to pretend that I was a ‘woman of loose morals’ who just followed the drum…definitely has it’s naughtier perks!
Since starting to play with this group last summer, I now have a better understanding and really can ’see’ the imagering in the descriptions of what women wore in the 18th century in all the novels I read!
~Kim
Nicole Jordan on 01 Mar 2007 at 12:03 am #
KMB25 on 28 Feb 2007
>>> While playing at a Highland Games here in the South, one of the bands that we’d been playing alongside for three years mentioned they were going to Ireland and I asked, “need a fiddle player?” They called me when they got back from Ireland (I couldn’t go anyways…I got married instead..hehe) and now I’ve been appearing with them whenever I’m not on the road with my main band.
Wow, that is really cool, Kim! I got to go the Highland Games in Atlanta a number of years ago (doing research for a Highland book) and I remember the bands and dancers. Lots of fun! Have you played Atlanta? Also, I saw on KarenH’s Scots post that Gannon got see the Grandfather Games in NC.
And Jessica is going to Scotland this fall to study, which must be thrilling. Boy, do I envy her!
NicoleJ
KMB25 on 01 Mar 2007 at 12:13 am #
The Games are always a good time! There are a ton around the country…mostly in the summer months. I’ve never been to the Atlanta one…are you meaning the Stone Mountain Highland Games? I hear they’re lots of fun, and you should definitely check out the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games in Linville Falls, NC. It’s the 2nd largest Highland games in North America and set on a plateau along the Blue Ridge Parkway….it’s absolutely beautiful there! And of course, the entertainment is always fun
I hope that the other goddess who’s going to Scotland has a blast…it’s wonderful there!
~Kim
TheNightPoet on 01 Mar 2007 at 1:28 am #
I agree with you Nicole, my prof. is a pretty cool teacher. Today we had our first test of the semester and I was laughing (silently to myself, but cracking noticeable smiles) the whole time through it! He made the test fun and light hearted while still testing us on what we learned in class. It was the funniest (and best) test I’ve ever taken!
Here’s some examples of some of the stuff he put in his tests…(I’ll type what I can remember.) One of the questions started out with…”Your esteemed professor (that’s me)…..” Another question had an option for the answer to be…”D. It’s too early to think about this.” haha Like I said, I was laughing throughout the entire test!! I like how he made it fun and gave me a chance to release the tension and stress I get when I’m taking a test. Know what I mean?
And to Tom, welcome to the site!! (funny, my professor’s first name is Tom. lol) That is really cool that you support Adrienne the way you do. It’s cool that you read romance books as well. I never knew guys read them too. I guess I should have guessed that they do, but I never really thought about it.
Andrea
Nicole Jordan on 01 Mar 2007 at 10:32 am #
KMB25 on 01 Mar 2007
>>are you meaning the Stone Mountain Highland Games?
>> you should definitely check out the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games in Linville Falls, NC….. set on a plateau along the Blue Ridge Parkway….it’s absolutely beautiful there!
Yep, Stone Mountain. My fave was watching the Border Collies herd geese. That was a riot. I’ve been to the BR mountains — horse showing in Ashville — but not to the Games. But you’re right, it’s gorgeous there.
Stephanie on 28 Feb 2007
>>> reading is my way of relaxing and my getaway from a busy schedule.
Me too, Stephanie! I mostly do read at the end of the day when everything is quite. My fave way to escape and unwind.
>>>The problem with reading is I always finish a book too soon because I can’t put it down. I have to know what happens next.
I’ll bet you’re the kind of reader who can’t start a book late at night, lol. You’d be up all night. I’m that way with some books. “Just a few more pages…” and the next thing I know it 3 am, and I’m totally worthless the next day.
And AndreaTNP, that is so great about you prof making learning fun. That really is priceless.
NicoleJ
KMB25 on 01 Mar 2007 at 11:50 am #
>>>The problem with reading is I always finish a book too soon because I can’t put it down. I have to know what happens next.
I’ll bet you’re the kind of reader who can’t start a book late at night, lol. You’d be up all night. I’m that way with some books. “Just a few more pages…” and the next thing I know it 3 am, and I’m totally worthless the next day.
Oh do these words sooo describe me! I was up until 4 am last night because I couldn’t put a book down…and the funniest thing? I’d already read it once!
~Kim
TheNightPoet on 01 Mar 2007 at 2:42 pm #
Kim, I was up until 2 a.m. last night reading as well!! lol I knew I needed to get to bed, because I had to get some sleep for my class I had today at 11 a.m. hehe I just couldn’t put it down.
Nicole, I wish there were more teachers out there like him. I am really glad that I have him this semester.
Andrea
Stephanie on 01 Mar 2007 at 8:44 pm #
>>>Oh do these words sooo describe me! I was up until 4 am last night because I couldn’t put a book down…and the funniest thing? I’d already read it once!
I have done that too. Even though I know basically what is going to happen, I still cannot find a stopping point. I love to read and visit all the times and places a book takes me.
KMB25 on 01 Mar 2007 at 8:45 pm #
Andrea,
So did you make it to class? Lucky for me, I have Thursday mornings off–I didn’t have to be at the University to teach until 1pm…Thank God…I am so tired today!
~Kim
Kelly Ann on 01 Mar 2007 at 11:34 pm #
I have, more then once, been told I read romance because I lack something in my personal life. After awhile, I finally started saying, “Fortunately It’s not as bad as what you obviously lack in yours.”
Now if the person is really obnoxious, they’ll ask me exactly what I mean and that is never good, because I end up telling them! I won’t go into that now because it would take to long (but I could write a book on the subject).
I’ve also been asked how I can read that “TRASH”. I tell them it’s because I’m trashy! (Trust me I’ve met a lot of unromantic people with no taste for history and love), I’m fortunate that none of them are in my family!
But my favorite is when I’m asked how I can read those “Sex Books!!!” My favorite response………”Because I love sex!”
Nicole Jordan on 02 Mar 2007 at 12:56 am #
Kelly Ann on 01 Mar 2007
LOL! Those are great answers, Kelly Ann. Love it.
I’ll bet you’re the kind of person who can come up with comebacks easily. I wish I had that talent!
NicoleJ
Kelly Ann on 02 Mar 2007 at 1:03 am #
Nicole,
It’s not always a talent (as my mother has been telling me the last 30 years), (though I do laugh a lot!!!!!) I stick my foot in my mouth all the time. My major trial is that I don’t always think before the sarcasim slips out of my mouth and then I truely “wish the floor would open up and swallow me whole!”
Kelly
TheNightPoet on 02 Mar 2007 at 1:25 am #
KMB25, surprisingly I made it to class, with time to spare!! I even left my house early enough to get there on time!! (I commute, so I leave an hour before class starts to give myself enough time to get there.) I was shocked. You know the weird thing is….I wasn’t that tired today. Except when I got to work tonight, I couldn’t stop yawning. hehe Late night must have been kicking in. lol I wish I had late classes again this semester. They are nice! You get to stay up late, which I love to do, and sleep in late. It’s great!
Andrea
pinny on 03 Mar 2007 at 5:45 pm #
As a teacher of high school English, reading romance definitely gets scoffed at so I often say, “Yes, you’re right! Romeo and Juliet was really about blood and feuding families — love and lust had nothing to do with this timeless tale. Shakespeare, what an idiot!”
TheNightPoet on 05 Mar 2007 at 12:43 pm #
haha My brother and his friends were hanging out here at our parents house this weekend. Anyway, I was reading in my room when one of his friends, followed by my brother and another friend of his, came into my room to say hi. (he’s like a younger brother to me, the friend that came into my room first.) The other friend of my brother asked what I was reading and I said a romance novel and he started laughing and went on to say something uncomprehendable. Then the other one (the one that’s like a younger brother to me) said, “I like romance books.” He took me by surprise. I had to laugh at the whole situation. It was just too funny and I thought I have to get on here and tell the goddesses about it. lol Hope this entertains you.
Andrea
Bridget Waters on 05 Mar 2007 at 8:14 pm #
I think the worst thing someone said was ‘You should read quality not quanity’
Dude, just because I’ve read over 50+ books this year means I’m trying to read them super fast, I read fast, Don’t be jealous. And I like Romance and they are quality, Just because I don’t for read self-help books or wtfe doesn’t mean they aren’t good, It just means I don’t read boring crap.
Pssssh, losers.
Nicole Jordan on 06 Mar 2007 at 9:36 am #
Give that boy a gold star, Andrea! LOL.
And Pinny and Bridget, love your answers!
NicoleJ
TheNightPoet on 06 Mar 2007 at 11:58 pm #
hehe Will do Nicole.
Andrea
MizMacgyver on 08 Mar 2007 at 12:52 pm #
The only time anyone said anything to me about reading was “How can you read that stuff?” My answer, “Word by delectable word.”
TheNightPoet on 08 Mar 2007 at 10:04 pm #
haha Miz, that’s a great comeback! I never thought of that one!
Andrea
Daisy W on 10 Mar 2007 at 7:54 pm #
Actually I have never had anyone say anything like that about my romance books, just my sci-fi/fantasy books. My mom actually use to buy me romance books, since my “nerdy” sci-fi books embarrassed her. She used to tell me, “Boys read that junk, girls read romance novels.” I told her. “At least I read.” That shut her up, since most of my cousins barely could read. My brother only reads comics, which I like too.
Nicole Jordan on 11 Mar 2007 at 10:04 am #
MizMacgyver on 08 Mar 2007
>>>>>My answer, “Word by delectable word.”
LOL. You’re right, Andrea, that’s a great line, MizMac!
Daisy W on 10 Mar 2007
>>>>>My mom actually use to buy me romance books, since my “nerdy” sci-fi books embarrassed her. She used to tell me, “Boys read that junk, girls read romance novels.” I told her. “At least I read.” That shut her up,
That is too funny, Daisy! Your mom being worried about SF books corrupting you. Usually it’s romances that are accused of being bad for you. And I love your answer!!
That’s so true, that reading of any kind is great exercise for the mind. I just wish more parents shared that philosophy.
That’s the wonderful thing about the JK Rowling Harry Potter books — they’ve gotten thousands and thousands of children to become avid readers.
NicoleJ
Katherine2 on 12 Mar 2007 at 6:24 am #
I go through stages in my books, it started with fantasy, then sci-fi, then mystery and now romance. It changes when my local library runs out of books in that genre. But only Romance leaves me with that warm, fuzzy feeling at the end of a book. I always have a book with me and sometimes I do get some comments about it, and before I’ve always gone bright red and stammered some unintelligible answer but since I’ve read everyones comments and some of the comebacks people have thought up I feel like I might be able to just tell everyone to sod off. Thankyou.
Nicole Jordan on 14 Mar 2007 at 7:31 pm #
Katherine2 on 12 Mar 2007
>>>since I’ve read everyones comments and some of the comebacks people have thought up I feel like I might be able to just tell everyone to sod off. Thankyou.
LOL, Katherine! That’s a very good answer, too.
I’m glad we could help. I certainly have gotten a lot more ammunition to use next time.
NicoleJ
Aimee on 29 Mar 2007 at 12:57 pm #
see I don’t have the rude comments my mom is the one that started me on the romances of course she waited till I understood the men and woman relationship but she wanted me to figure out and get a guy that would treat me right and that love wasn’t always perfect and my husband loves my reading tastes heck he buys me all the sabrina jefferies books.Plus he reaps the benifits of the romance tips what isn’t there to love.
ingrid on 08 Nov 2007 at 7:10 pm #
i am proud to admit i read romance novels.
my favourite is karen marie moning
it was actually my mother and my friend that made me start into romance becuase i used to read Thrillers and Murder/Mysteries and my mom said that
those books are for men, romance novels are for women.
my friend introduced me to them, saying you will fall head over heels for this one.
surprisingly i did.
it was Kiss of the Highlander.
it’s been my favourte ever since. me and my friend joke around and call them our ‘pornos’. lmao