What was the first Romance Novel you ever read?

It’s time for another throwback! Man, that sounds strenuous, doesn’t it? Anyway, I was reminiscing the other day, as one is wont to do when waiting in line for the self check-out at the grocery store, and tried to think back to the first romance novel I ever read. Let’s travel back in time shall we? Cue psychedelic 70’s music.

I remember I was in high school when the blessed event took place, and I think the reason I remember it so vividly is because I didn’t know what I was getting myself into. Basically, I had no idea that the book I was reading was a romance novel. You see, there was always a bargain bin of cheap books at the corner bookstore, and it always seemed to call my name. I would glance through it during every visit, and never left the store without a new purchase. I came across a book with a cabin on the cover, in the midst of a snowy field. Looking at it now makes me crave a cup of hot cocoa and a fire place. The short (and I mean short!) blurb captured my interest. It was about a young woman alone in a cabin who comes across a handsome, but confused stranger in the woods. Oh my, did he travel through time? Did he have amnesia? Was he running from the cops? I decided to give it a go. The book was Dream Mountain by Gena Hale and S.L. Viehl.

Looking back on the situation I realize I was a complete and total idiot. Who in their right mind wouldn’t know, just from looking at the freakin’ cover, that this was a romance novel? I mean, will you look at that cover?! The font name alone should be called, “Warning: Sexual Activities Ahead”. What can I say? I was young and foolish.

The book itself was confusing, but it had an interesting enough plot. And then, it happened. I was sitting in study hall one day reading this novel, going about by business, la tee da, when HOLY WHAT NOW?! Hello two people getting down and dirty in a cave. I couldn’t believe the detail they went into, and thought what the hell does this have to do with the story! He’s kissing her where? What does she want him to do? Why is this happening? GAH! Considering I was in school, and someone was sitting in the desk next to me, I immediately did the thing where you close the edges of the book a bit and hold it closer to you in case someone happens to read over your shoulder. I feel like we’ve all probably done the “tuck and close” at some point. I equate this move to watching a scary movie through your fingers; you’re somewhat horrified, but can’t stop watching. I think in this instance I was afraid the teacher would see what I was reading and confiscate it or something.

All in all, not the best entrance into the romance novel world. I was surprised, slightly embarrassed, and the book itself was nothing to write home about. Turns out it was actually the second novel in a series, which probably explains why the plot was so confusing. Oh well, live and learn. So how about all of you? Do you remember the first romance novel you ever read? Did you like it? Was the experience as silly as mine? If you’re in a sharing mood, feel free to leave a remark in the comment section below!