Reexamining Romantic Tropes with the Ripped Bodice
Briefly

Leah Koch and her sister Bea Hodges-Koch opened The Ripped Bodice in Los Angeles in 2016, finding success in the burgeoning romance genre, which saw print sales soar between 2020 and 2023. As they expand into a second location in Park Slope, Leah discusses unconventional romance novels that celebrate classic tropes. A defining aspect of romance, she asserts, is the journey from conflict to resolution, reflecting ongoing shifts towards diversity and representation in the genre.
Leah Koch argues that the essence of a romance novel is how we journey from the start of a love story to a satisfying conclusion.
The Ripped Bodice has become a hub for unconventional romance stories, showcasing diverse characters and narratives that reflect real-life experiences.
With a resurgence in romance sales, Leah Koch highlights the importance of trope evolution, signaling a greater acceptance and representation in the genre.
Books like 'The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches' illustrate the growth of romance, featuring diverse characters and complex relationships beyond traditional norms.
Read at The New Yorker
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