Toronto romance writer Lily Chu engages in an “audio edit” ritual after completing a book, having her computer read it aloud while she moves around, aiming to enhance the immersive experience for listeners. Chu, known for releasing her novels as audiobooks first, caters to the multitasking audience. According to a recent report by BookNet Canada, 81% of respondents listen to audiobooks while engaged in activities like work, commuting, or household chores.
Chu penned her debut novel, “The Stand-In,” during the 2020 pandemic. Her work caught the attention of Audible, leading to an “audio-first” publication for “The Stand-In.” Now, with a deal in place, Chu recently launched her sixth book, “Just Kiss Already,” following the trend of romance transitioning from print to audio formats.
Romance, described by Chu as “the genre of hope,” adheres to two fundamental rules: focusing on the central couple’s relationship and guaranteeing a happy ending. This genre’s popularity has surged, driven by factors such as pandemic-induced isolation and the appeal of guilt-free escapism for women with sexual agency.
Audiobook narrator Angelina Rocca notes that listeners seek romance for its escapism, with skilled narrators creating a cinematic experience through sound effects and vocal choices that emphasize women’s perspectives and pleasure. These choices, aligned with the text, deepen the emotional connection for listeners, as stated by Audible’s Diana Dapito.
Despite historical stigma, romance novels have gained acceptance, with immersive audio offering a private world for exploration. Sarah Wendell, co-founder of Smart Bitches, Trashy Books, highlights the genre’s unjust stigmatization and the empowering nature of audio storytelling in this realm. Lizz Kidd from Hopeless Romantic Books in Toronto praises audio subscription apps for providing diverse options for exploring sensuality and supporting artists in the genre.