Romance is 23% of book sales — but theatrical releases have fallen over 75% in 20 years

At a San Diego Comic-Con panel on 23 July 2026, Veronica Roth cited romance as 23% of all book sales, while Rebelle Media's Laura Lewis said theatrical romance releases have dropped over 75% in 20 years. The panel, titled "Romance on the Big Screen: Why It's About Damn Time," featured authors and producers working to adapt romance novels for screen.