Most Popular:
* Women aged 35-54: This age group is often cited as the largest consumer of romance novels. Many women in this demographic have established careers and families, and romance novels offer escapism and emotional fulfillment.
Also Significant:
* Teenagers and young adults: Romance novels are popular with this group, particularly those focusing on contemporary themes, young adult characters, and "new adult" romances.
* Women over 55: Romance novels continue to be popular with older women, who may enjoy the familiar tropes and characters.
* Men: While romance is often seen as a genre for women, a growing number of men are reading romance novels. This is particularly true for subgenres like historical romance, paranormal romance, and military romance.
It's important to note:
* Diversity: Romance novels are becoming increasingly diverse, catering to different age groups, cultural backgrounds, and sexual orientations.
* Subgenres: Different subgenres of romance appeal to different demographics. For example, historical romance is popular with older readers, while contemporary romance appeals to younger readers.
Ultimately, the popularity of romance novels transcends age, with something to offer readers of all backgrounds and interests.