My youngest daughter was surprised that I have read romance novels. I told her I prefer Regency romances over contemporary. Romances set in the 21st century tend towards more sex, which bothers me, but besides that, it hurts a lot more to read about tragic current circumstances than about trauma in the far past. Some historical romances have interesting backgrounds; there are bodice rippers to avoid, but there are also political and economic tales that fascinate me. Plus I am a sap; it feels good to see the hero and heroine get together and live happily for at least 10 minutes (Happily Ever After seems a stretch to me now). I told her that I don’t read horror and I don’t read gothic novels. I have enough stress in my life; I don't need to encourage fear. She said yes, her imagination provides enough visualization in "the dread of the night".