Photo credit: bookriot.com
8th Note Press
By day, Diana works as a cook. But by night, she dives deep into the world of the Sam Raymond fandom, crafting steamy real-person fanfiction (RPF) about the charming rockstar while aspiring to become a professional author.
Meanwhile, Sam himself grapples with his own demons—panic attacks and a vocal injury. In a surprising twist, he finds solace in the online persona “S,” who corresponds with a talented fanfiction writer, a secret connection he cherishes.
Their worlds unexpectedly collide when Sam visits Diana’s café, igniting a relationship fueled by their mutual passion for music and the vibrant life of New York City.
As their friendship blossoms, the question looms: Will this connection evolve into a cherished romance or ultimately lead to heartbreak?
As I have discussed previously, my fondness for fanfiction is unwavering! There’s something exhilarating about immersing oneself in the universe of beloved characters and narratives. Additionally, I have a penchant for meta-narratives (the term, not the company). So, what better way to combine these interests than through literature about fanfiction authors? (This includes enthusiasts who read fanfiction or curate online fan communities.)
My journey in this realm began with Rainbow Rowell’s Fangirl in 2016. Cath resonated with me on many levels (though I never achieved BNF status) and prompted me to pursue my own writing, albeit perhaps not to the detriment of my social life, as she did. (I still haven’t read Carry On, but that’s a topic for another discussion.) Since then, I’ve eagerly sought books that explore the intricacies of fandom culture, whether aimed at adults or teenagers. And when it comes to full-fledged Capital R Romance Novels featuring fanfiction themes? I’m all in—serve it to me lavishly, and I’ll savor every moment.
However, one cannot help but notice that the realm of Creative Fanworks within adult romance often presents a predominantly white narrative. If we were discussing fanfic writers reinterpreting their works for adult romance, we’d have a more diverse landscape. The apparent lack of representation can be attributed to either a disinterest from publishers or a shortage of authors. While writers like Cathy Yardley and Seressia Glass offer several works touching on fandom-related topics (Level Up welcomes us into a charming community of fans engaged in everything from gaming to cosplay), it’s disheartening that fanfic creators, who are already in the minority, are even less frequently represented, especially given that less than 10% of traditionally published romance comes from BIPOC authors.
This is a crucial point for the future considerations of publishers.
Nonetheless, whether you’re a die-hard fan like me or unfamiliar with fanfiction, these romantic tales infused with fanfic elements have something to offer everyone.
Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade
The Spoiler Alert trilogy by Olivia Dade serves as an excellent starting point for those interested in the intertwined world of fandom and fanfiction. The story follows April and Marcus, two virtual friends unaware of each other’s true identities. The plot thickens when they finally meet, and Marcus realizes that April is the very friend with whom he has shared fanfiction and secrets for years, prompting a conflict of conscience. Additionally, the books include entertaining interstitials, featuring snippets of fanfiction.
Fan Service by Rosie Danan
Though fanfiction isn’t the focal point of Fan Service, it incorporates significant references to the genre, including a heartwarming scene where one of the characters indulges in some fanfiction reading. Alex, previously a moderator for a fan forum dedicated to The Arcane Files, encounters a mysterious man who may be transforming into a werewolf. With her extensive knowledge of the show, she’ll have to navigate this quirky turn of events.
The Art of Scandal by Regina Black
In The Art of Scandal, we meet Nathan Vasquez, a young business owner whose aspirations are to elevate his artistic expressions while primarily engaging in creating fan art. The vibrant descriptions of his work are captivating, and the book artfully intertwines his developing relationship with Rachel, who is navigating her own tumultuous divorce from a scandalous politician.
Lone Wolf by Aleksandr Voinov and LA Witt
This classic narrative features the age-old dynamic of online friends meeting face-to-face. Hunter, a writer dealing with crippling writer’s block, reaches out to Kevin, a fanfic author whose creativity mirrors the essence of Hunter’s struggles. Their collaboration leads to unexpected personal and professional discoveries.
Enemies to Lovers by Aster Glenn Gray
If you’re looking for a comedic diversion, this novella will deliver. It follows two students who find themselves in a predicament due to a university experiment. Megan and Sarah instantly click, especially after realizing they share the same fandom. However, tensions rise once they uncover that their online interactions have been less than amicable. A writing club scenario involving handcuffs complicates their situation and forces them to confront each other.
Total Creative Control by Joanna Chambers and Sally Malcolm
This collaboration between two impressive romance authors revolves around two friends navigating power dynamics within their creative work. Aaron, a fanfic writer and dedicated fan of Leeches, finds his professional life intertwined with Lewis, the creative director of the show, as they explore a deeper connection beyond their established friendship.
Much Ado About Hating You by Sarah Echavarre Smith (May 22)
This upcoming campus romance delves into the complexities of power dynamics as it features a fanfic-writing professor and an auditor contemplating budget cuts. Micah struggles with making difficult decisions for her clients, finding solace in steamy Shakespearian fanfiction—written unknowingly by the very professor whose job she might jeopardize. Their chemistry is palpable, leading to intense arguments and pushing each other’s buttons that ultimately begs the question of whether their combustible connection can turn romantic.
For those seeking more narratives featuring creative characters in romance, numerous recommendations await, including lists of Bookish Romance Novels and Young Adult stories about teens immersed in nerdy pastimes.
Source
bookriot.com