Publishing Romance Fiction in the Philippines

The romance publishing industry in the Philippines is vast and complex, with a rich history and diverse genres. This Element explores the sector's development, genre histories, and connections to other media sectors, using #RomanceClass as a central case study. The authors aim to disrupt the Anglo-American focus in scholarship and contribute to a more decentred understanding of romance fiction.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 08 June 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The romance publishing landscape in the Philippines is a vast and intricate tapestry, characterized by a complex web of industrial players, a diverse array of texts, and distinct audiences that are often divided into silos. This comprehensive element serves as a map of the Filipino publishing industry, delving into the rich and multifaceted sector that has emerged as a significant player in the global literary scene. It explores the distinct genre histories of romance fiction within this region, shedding light on the social, political, and technological contexts that have shaped its development. Furthermore, it examines the close connections between romance publishing and other media sectors, highlighting the unique ways in which these industries intersect and influence one another.

As a central case study, the element takes a deep dive into the Filipino romance self-publishing collective #RomanceClass. By examining the strategies and challenges faced by this collective, the authors aim to provide valuable insights into the complex local landscape and the broader international marketplace. By focusing on the Philippines, the authors hope to challenge the dominant narrative of romance fiction scholarship, which has historically been centered on the Anglo-American industry. Instead, they seek to contribute to a more decentred and rhizomatic approach to understanding this genre world, one that recognizes the diverse and interconnected nature of the romance publishing industry across different cultures and regions.

In conclusion, the romance publishing landscape in the Philippines is a rich and complex terrain that requires a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach. By exploring the genre histories, social, political, and technological contexts, and the close connections between romance publishing and other media sectors, this element provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the global romance publishing industry. Through the case study of #RomanceClass, the authors hope to inspire a more nuanced and inclusive approach to studying romance fiction, one that recognizes the diverse voices and experiences that shape this genre across different cultures and regions.

Weight: 106g
Dimension: 126 x 179 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009096430