With Romance Novels Booming, Beefcake Sells, but It Doesn’t Pay

4/3/2016

This article from The New York Times explores the booming market for romance novels and the disparity in earnings between male and female authors in the genre. It discusses the rise of male cover models, commonly referred to as "beefcakes," on romance novel covers and their appeal to readers. Despite the increased visibility and popularity of these books, the article highlights the gender pay gap that exists within the industry. Female authors, who make up the majority of romance writers, often earn significantly less than their male counterparts. The article provides insights into the challenges faced by female authors in the romance genre, emphasizing the need for greater recognition and fair compensation in this lucrative market.

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