At 48 Hour Books, we are always trying to evolve with the newest book printing trends to fulfill your needs as an author. One dominant book genre that has been paving the way for special edition book printing is the romance genre.
Romance book printing trends are evolving with changing reader preferences, technological advancements, and market demands. Here are some key trends in romance book printing:
Special Edition & Collector’s Editions
- Readers love special editions with sprayed edges, foil-stamped covers, and exclusive artwork.
- Indie romance authors and publishers are offering exclusive covers, signed copies, and limited-run editions through platforms like Kickstarter or direct sales.
- Hardcover romance books, once rare, are gaining popularity, particularly for BookTok-famous novels.
(Not My Heart to Break by Willow Winters)
Illustrated & Discreet Covers
- Illustrated covers remain popular, especially for romcoms and lighthearted romance.
- Some romance genres, particularly spicier romances, are shifting to "discreet covers" (minimalist, elegant designs without explicit imagery).
- Special editions may have reverse dust jackets with a discreet outer design and a spicy illustrated inner cover.
Large Print & Accessibility
- More publishers are offering large print editions to cater to visually impaired readers and an aging audience.
- Accessibility-friendly fonts and high-contrast designs are becoming more common.
Premium Print Features
- Foil stamping, embossing, and UV spot finishes are being used to create eye-catching covers.
- Sprayed Edges/Edge Printing are becoming premium options in the romance genre.
- Double-sided Dust Jackets: Dust jackets that are printed on both sides
- Printed End Sheets: Pages at the beginning and end of hardcover books that are used to glue the inside pages and include color or artwork.
- Tip-ins: A book tip-in is a page or card that is printed separately from the main text of a book and then attached to it. Tip-ins can be used for a variety of reasons, including adding reviews, photographic prints, or extra space.
48 Hour Books offers a range of book customization options to print your romance special edition, including edge printing, Diamond 3D Printing (available in Clear, Foil, and Smart Textures), foil stamping, printed end sheets, and dust jackets. We can now print double-sided dust jackets – just contact us ahead of time for availability and a custom quote!
(Double-sided Dust Jacket) (Edge Printing) (Printed End Sheets)
We also have added NEW Diamond 3D Foil colors so you can customize your book even more to your liking to match your cover art. In addition to gold, silver, red, and blue, we now also offer green, teal, purple, and rose gold. We are hoping to have hot pink available soon!
(New Diamond 3D Foil Colors)
Subscription Boxes & Bundles
- Romance readers love series, and publishers are offering box sets of popular books, either as physical bundles or in collector’s editions.
- Romance authors have found success with subscription boxes, or limited-release special edition boxes through TikTok Shop, Patreon subscriptions, and direct sales channels like their personal websites and Instagram.
- In addition to a special edition book, many subscription boxes will also include knick-knacks and small gifts that go with the theme of the book or cover art.
Digital & Hybrid Publishing Models
- Many authors release a digital-first version and then offer print editions based on demand.
- Romance books that gain readership quickly often get special print editions later.
- Paperback and Hardcover editions
Music Playlists to Set the Tone
· Something fun romance authors have incorporated in their books is a music playlist to match the themes of the book. Playlists are usually placed in the front matter of the book for readers to take note of and craft their reading playlists.
(Playlist example from One Shot by A.C. Wonderland)
48 Hour Books: Your Self-Publishing Partner
At 48 Hour Books, we’re here to help. Whether you’re printing a book for the first time or have an established readership, we have the book options you need to print a high-quality book, fast. Our customer service team goes above and beyond to answer your questions. Contact us today to get started or get an instant quote!
View more romance books we’ve printed on our Instagram.
