Project 2025 might sound like the title of a dystopian romance novel, but it’s not fiction. The future of romance in America under its changes is significant. It’s a massive conservative policy agenda crafted by the Heritage Foundation, and it’s making waves, particularly now that President-Elect Donald Trump is starting to weave it into his administration’s plans. While he initially brushed it off during the campaign, Trump has recently started filling key government roles with authors and contributors from the Project 2025 playbook. We’re talking positions like the head of the FCC and director of the CIA, with even more on the way. This move shows just how seriously his administration is taking the plan’s goals, which include cutting federal regulations, reshaping cultural policies, and promoting “traditional” values. 1 2
What Does This Mean?
So, what does this mean for romance novels? Potentially, a lot—and not in a good way. Project 2025’s cultural goals could steer society away from celebrating diverse stories, relationships, and identities. Romance as a genre thrives on inclusivity and variety: LGBTQ+ love stories, interracial relationships, and unconventional paths to happily-ever-afters. These narratives could be pushed to the margins, especially if funding is slashed for arts programs that champion diverse voices. In schools and libraries across America, books that don’t align with “traditional” ideals might not make the cut for shelves or reading lists. 3 4
Book Covers
The visuals that bring romance novels to life—our beloved book covers—could also face a makeover. Right now, romance covers are unapologetically joyful, featuring characters of all shapes, sizes, races, and genders. But under Project 2025’s influence, we might see a shift toward muted, “safer” designs. Say goodbye to those bold, swoon-worthy visuals and hello to something that tries not to make waves, all in the name of cultural compliance. This shift further underscores the uncertain future facing the romance industry in America. 5 6
Retailers
Then there’s the question of retailers. Could giants like Amazon or Barnes & Noble phase out certain types of romance novels? It’s unlikely they’d ditch the genre altogether—it’s a multi-billion-dollar industry—but subtler shifts could happen. Algorithms might downplay diverse romances, making them harder for readers to find. Meanwhile, physical stores could prioritize so-called “mainstream” titles, leaving inclusive love stories to languish in the shadows. This is especially concerning for indie authors, who rely on platforms like Amazon KDP to bring their stories directly to readers. Reduced visibility could hurt not just authors but readers, too, by limiting access to stories that reflect the full spectrum of human experience.
Promotion
And let’s not forget promotion. If advertising policies or social media platforms start imposing stricter guidelines, authors could find it harder to market books that feature marginalized characters or adult themes. It might force a heavier reliance on direct reader engagement—newsletters, word-of-mouth, and independent bookstores stepping up as champions for these stories. In this way, the uncertain future of the romance industry in America becomes even clearer.
Don’t Lose Hope
But here’s the thing about romance: it’s resilient. It’s a genre built on hope, on the belief that love conquers all—even censorship and narrow-mindedness. If Project 2025 starts dictating what’s acceptable in publishing, the romance community will find ways to adapt, push back, and make space for every kind of love story. We’ll need to rally behind diverse authors and ensure their voices stay strong because the world—and the romance genre—is better with them in it. Despite the challenges, the uncertain future of the romance industry in America may inspire even greater resilience and creativity.