Four years ago, in a discussion with a friend, I
learned of the existence of the Amish romance novel. According to Wikipedia,
works in this literary subgenre are referred to as “bonnet rippers.” I’ve never
read a bonnet ripper, but I did subsequently rent a movie based on one, The Shunning. I don’t remember it
vividly—I never remember plot points vividly—but it kept my interest long
enough to see how it turned out. Plus, Amish.
This year at the library book sale there was at least half of a table of these romances. How did this ever become a thing?
ReplyDeleteFascinating. I'm not sure I could get into a romance in which the hero is named Jedediah, but I'm willing to give it a try.
ReplyDeleteLaughing at everything that's been said. Is there an Amish publisher? And what does the cover art look like: a man pawing frantically at a woman's bonnet, while she makes a token effort to keep the strings tied under her chin?
ReplyDeleteHa, I saw that film. And I downloaded a free Amish romance, but did not read it .
ReplyDeleteI had a friend who loved these to the exclusion of all other genres. The covers are mostly attractive young women in full Amish garb staring longingly at the sunset or down at I presume a baby pig or a barn cat at their feet. And they have names like "As the Heart Mends" or "Seek Me First"
ReplyDeleteBonnet rippers! I am laughing too. I don't think this genre has made it to New Zealand.
ReplyDeleteBonnet ripping? I'm afraid I'll never be able to look at the Mennonite (close enough) ladies at the farm market in quite the same way again.
ReplyDelete