Black romance novels are not a niche category

Black love stories are seen as a niche genre that often centers trauma, or love under the conditions of poverty and strife. This may be true from some, but it doesn’t paint the whole picture. 

The State of Racial Diversity in Romance Publishing Report tracks the publication of books by writers of color across genres. According to findings, only 11% of the books published within the romance genre were from writers of color. 

So, what does it mean to call Black love "niche"? And who decides which love stories are universal?

Sylvia Hubbard is an author of over 70 romance novels. She joined The Metro's Tia Graham to talk more about diversity within the romance genre.

"The Metro" covers local and regional news and current affairs, arts and cultural events and topics, with a commitment to airing perspectives and uncovering stories underreported by mainstream media in Detroit.