We know you should never judge a book by its cover but sometimes it is rather fun
In our April issue, we’ve been celebrating the romance novel in all its forms. From Austen heroes brooding in drawing rooms, to steamy scenes from more modern times, romance as a genre is something we can all relate to and something we love to love, even though we know it’s just a bit silly. So in honour of all that, we’ve collated eight of the more silly and very real titles of romance novels we encountered and have imagined how their plots might pan out.
Mad, Bad and Dangerous in Plaid
Two kilt makers in the Highlands are driven to a turf war over ownership of a design. The last thing they expected was for love to blossom over a patent rights dispute.
Beginner’s Guide to Rakes
When Susan gets her first allotment, she is confused by the range of garden and DIY tools on offer in her local Homebase. Fortunately, Roger is there to lend a hand.
Aroused by Two Lions
A chance encounter while on a day trip to Whipsnade brings more than Elsa bargained for.
Emily’s Magical Bejewelled Codpiece
Tudor historian Emily discovers the costume department of the museum contains a secret door to the court of King Henry VIII and adventure awaits.
Desert Prince, Defiant Virgin
Prince Ali has never left his village home on the edge of the desert and decides if he is to find love, he must take his search to further flung lands. Unfortunately, due to Richard Branson’s cuts, the flight is cancelled.
Grace Before Meat
The Reverend John Alford is a regular at his village butcher. Then one day a new apprentice arrives in the form of beautiful Emily Bones, and love blossoms over the lamb shanks.
Romance Goes Tenting
A dark and rainy night, a young couple on their first holiday… a row over why on earth he didn’t book the caravan as she’d suggested. Things are going to get stormy before they get steamy.
Apollo’s Seed
An unlikely romance blooms between Ted, who is putting in his annual Thompson and Morgan’s seed catalogue order, and Octavia, a young Greek woman, working at the call centre.
Buy this month's The Simple Things - buy, download or subscribe