RomanceClass2026: Participants talk about what they think of RomanceClass and the books they’ve read so far

RomanceClass2026 is starting on February 16! The class is free and we prioritize unpublished, unagented, and self-published authors, who already read and love writing romance, and want to write romance with us. Reading RomanceClass Books is expected (this time encouraged, most times required), because ultimately a writer who understands what the community represents and is trying to do will be able to maximize the opportunities the class can offer.

This is a “do you know what you’re signing up for?” moment, and here are the responses we got from this year’s participants.

1. Mikki Eugenio shared a review of My Usual and You by Mina V. Esguerra.
2. Mary Balane: “I think RomanceClass is such an awesome initiative to champion romance novels written by Filipinos. I’ve read a few books already and my favorite is Choco Chip Hips by Agay Llanera! I love how it’s such positive representation for plus-size girlies.”
3. Gel del Rosario: “I adored the stories I’ve downloaded particularly Lemon Drop Fridays. I’ve read other LGBQIA stories (a chapter or 2 from Princess Daisy by Judith Krantz comes to mind) but I mostly felt that it was more of a queer bait rather than being romantic. The sex scene in Lemon Drop Friday felt intimate and personal that was poignant for me as a reader.”
4. Charlie Adriel: “I really love that RomanceClass books have happy endings. Real life is already hard as it is, and for me, reading has always been about escaping the hardships of the grind in real life even just for a few hours. So you know, I’m selfish about my happy endings. This is a review I did for one RomanceClass anthology book back in 2020 from my legacy book blog: https://litandliterary.blogspot.com/2020/07/book-review-promdi-heart-hometown-love.html”
5. Shiandra: “I love, love, LOVE RomanceClass books! It’s refreshing to read stories that I can relate to, not just in terms of romantic love and relationships. I love how, despite the focus being the love story of the lead characters, there are other elements in play.
   
   Comeback To Me by Carla De Guzman : https://www.instagram.com/p/DUAmxSeExQd/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
   My Imaginary Ex by Mina V. Esguerra : https://www.instagram.com/p/DSFdggkk0Uu/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
   
   Like Nobody’s Watching by Tara Frejas
   Scandalized by Tara Frejas Waiting in the Wings by Tara Frejas
   You Could Be the One by Ana Tejano”
6. Malaya Elira: “RomanceClass feels like a safe and generous space for writers who want to tell love stories with depth and intention. It values craft, emotional honesty, and the quiet, everyday moments that make romance feel real. More than a community, it feels like an invitation—to take writing seriously, to grow alongside other writers, and to believe that our stories, no matter how soft or understated, are worth telling. The RomanceClass books I’ve read are intelligently written. They may not be about big, dramatic love stories, but they still capture the soul of romance—quietly, honestly, and deeply. The stories feel grounded and human, focusing on connection, growth, and the small moments that make love real.”
7. Racquel Sarah A. Castro: “The books never disappoint.”
8. EK Gonzales shared a review of Hearts and Sciences by Celestine Trinidad. And also this (part of a longer message but I want to share this part): “I love that all the books demand agency and fluff, esp in a world that denies agency.”
9. Yuki Yna shared a review of Iris After the Incident by Mina V. Esguerra.
10. Regina: “I love how RomanceClass makes writing, especially writing romance and also publishing, accessible to people who might not have a lot of experience with the publishing industry, and those who might feel blocked from pursuing international publishing. The fact that you partner with publishers for each class opens up opportunities for writers who may have wanted to get published but don’t know how to begin. Along with that, I love the fact that RomanceClass books showcase Filipino settings and Filipino characters, and it’s nice to read about authors playing around with integrating that along with common tropes you usually see in books published abroad. It gives me hope that the local literary scene can grow and evolve and I feel like in some way, having spaces like this creates an impact when it comes to more local voices being recognized in the global literary scene, with more books being published in major publications every year.”
11. H. Bentham shared a post about Sweet On You by Carla de Guzman, recently adapted into the movie Recipe for Romance.
12. Jessie Winterspring: “After reading thick and heavy books from western writers, it always feels like a breath of fresh air to pick up Filipino authored books. As a Filipina nothing touch me and resets me as much as Pinoy books. RomanceClass book made that so accessible and easy. My old blog was erased and I lost most of my RomanceClass books review but here’s one to amazon: (The Real Score by Kesh Tanglao) https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R2LE0ZZG8PGY57 and here (Love Your Frenemies by Mina V. Esguerra) https://www.instagram.com/p/CNosUHXA0Pk/.”
13. Brigitte Bautista: “Romanceclass has been a safe and inclusive place for me to explore new reads and also bounce writing ideas off other authors and readers. The community has been successful in its projects and events, because I feel like members truly and genuinely support each other and root for each other’s success
    
    My last three romanceclass reads are:
    
    No Two Ways – I’ve probably read this more than three times already. But it was my first time reading the Blush Books edition, with the Jackie POV chapters added in. I’ve always admired how this story tackled biphobia head-on, navigating the struggles surrounding it even from within the queer community. AJ and Jackie are one of my fave romanceclass ships!
    
    My Usual And You : the No Strings Attached premise actually helped unblock a story element in my WIP. I felt like I needed to read an MC that was so straightforward and honest about what she wanted, when she wanted it, and how she wanted it. The jabs at the law profession was hilarious (as someone who’s dating a lawyer).
    
    Kiss Away The Goodbye: I don’t read BL all that much. But I loved this one because of the high heat level and the emotional tension between the leads. The opposites-attract dynamic between Martin and Judd was evident all throughout, and the way they resolved their differing perspectives on relationships towards that HEA was satisfying.”
14. Danielle: “My last RomanceClass read was Chasing Mr. Prefect, and it was SUCH a fun read.”
15. Maz: “I don’t have a social media post regarding my answer to this question but I will say a few words here. I’ll also share my instagram at the end of my answer. I think RomanceClass has a very interesting and welcoming community especially to Romance readers and writers. I’m quite happy with my past experience with last year’s discord class and I’m very excited to try it again this year. Regarding the books I’ve read so far, I found them all enjoyable and I love that every one of them had very distinct voices and flavors. Always a refreshing read every time! I do think it’s time I try to post more RomanceClass related posts on my social media (Instagram @mazrega). Maybe with illustrations as well. Stay tuned!”
16. Techie: “Kilig”
17. Clara Palma: “My (UPDATED) review of Kiss & Cry – I’ve read this several times, but the story never gets old. I found myself invested in how Cal and Ram navigated this romance as adults with lives and dreams outside the relationship. And of course, how they went from “this is only temporary” to “let’s make this work” without any conditions or limitations. It was interesting to read how two now-retired athletes deal with the aftermath of living disciplined/controlled lives and are now exploring their options, especially with their sport being the only thing they’ve ever known for most of their lives. I also liked how Cal confronted the people responsible for her life back then (cough her parents and the coach cough) And in Ram’s case, it was fascinating to see how he navigated his last two weeks in Manila and making the most of every opportunity he had to decide what he wanted to do next. Also the comments on the lack of support for Filipino athletes in winter sports made me laugh (as a fan of figure skating in general). Cal and Ram will always be among my favorite romanceclass couples.
    
    My review of Beginner’s Guide: Love and Other Chemical Reactions – https://x.com/i/status/1630769983201624065
    
    As for RomanceClass as a whole, I feel like RomanceClass played a huge role in helping me rediscover my confidence in writing for fun. The community has been so supportive of each other, which I don’t see much (outside of fanfic spaces). Mina often says that “Romance is about giving justice to the people we love” (non-verbatim), and that has stuck with me ever since. In that sense, I feel like the books in RomanceClass I remind us that besides good governance, we Filipinos also deserve better in love and representation as well. (Enough with the being martyrs for love LOL) I appreciate how the MCs have autonomy and keep their self-respect intact instead of the constant notion that being in love means throwing your dignity out the window. Speaking of which, I also appreciate how the characters aren’t afraid to discuss relevant social issues/daily struggles that every Filipino has experienced at least once, if not every single day. It makes them feel more real in a way the readers can connect with better.
    
    And at least in the books, the characters get that justice. It reminds me not to settle for less than the same love and justice the characters get. If fictional characters can get their happy ending, why should we settle for less in real life? I hope good governance catches up, too.”
18. Jaspearl (Jassy): “Songs of Our Break-Up
    
    I don’t think I’ve ever had a book make me cry so much. I love how the songs are parallel the emotions of the characters, especially Jill’s. You could really feel her sadness and the tension she had with her ex. She’s also pretty quirky. Love that she names her things, especially her guitar.
    
    Shinta is so charming, I adore him. And there’s something about the way he’s written, especially when he’s looking at Jill. You can tell he really only has eyes for her.
    
    The dynamic between Shinta and Jill is so cute and funny. Extrovert x Introvert. I don’t think I really have the proper words or if I can describe enough how much I love this book. I became an instant fan of Jay Tria when I read this. Her writing style is just *chef’s kiss*”
19. Mimi Tumesa: “I think RomanceClass is an innovative concept and I’m awed by how passionate the community is. I follow Mina V Esguerra and I am proud of the work she’s doing. Whenever I read her books, I am proud because it’s written for Filipinas and they’re all wonderful stories.”
20. ANRI: “You, Me, and U.S by Brigitte Bautista. I always love the troupe: love vs family issues/ambitions. I just love how Jo’s character was made, people like Jo exists and they are HUMAN. Something that most of the people (we’re in the PH) tends to forget. Also the bff troupe argh, help. I don’t know, the satisfaction is always there whenever that “CLICKED” happen, like “Oo nga ‘no?””
21. Kim shared a review of No Two Ways by Chi Yu Rodriguez.
22. Pola Apolonio: “I’ve enjoyed all of the RomanceClass stories I’ve read and greatly appreciate how unapologetic they are in their romance. One of the things I’m still deconstructing coming from CW/Lit in academia is the desire to force meaning into stories, as opposed to letting meaning reveal itself as I go along. I used to be so preoccupied asking myself “but why does my story deserve to be written” while I outline my story and that usually makes me overinflate my outline. From Sweet on You to Better at Weddings Than You to Mango Summer, I didn’t feel like any of the stories were actively trying to be or say something, and yet I gleaned a lot from them about independence and desiring romance anyway, valuing platonic/filial relationships as much as romantic ones, among other things. I know writing takes a lot of hard work and effort, and yet romanceclass stories make it seem effortless, which is why I keep coming back to class, because I hope to have the lightness rub off on me too.”
23. Barbie shared a post about What Kind of Day by Mina V. Esguerra.
24. Nathelle Lumabad: “I don’t have any public profiles and have not written reviews about the RomanceBooks I’ve read so far. However, the one title I enjoyed the most was Loveless, Childless and Clueless. I love the storytelling, and how I was instantly put in places where the writer wants me to be. There was enough build up and enough conflict to get me hooked, and I admittedly finished the book in just a few hours.
    
    I have also read My Imaginary Ex and Forget Me Not, which were great, easy reads. I also love how the former (My Imaginary Ex), made me travel back in time to days of high school crushes and loves.”
25. Catherine Lee shared Goodreads reviews of The Kitchen When It Sizzles by Chrissie Peria and Kiss and Cry by Mina V. Esguerra.
26. RM Urquico: “I have public social media but I don’t really use it. From what I remember, the books I read were enjoyable. What I loved about No Two Ways was how well-rounded the characters were. I did feel that AJ had it too easy – she had a condo in one of the most expensive parts of the city, family acceptance of her sexuality, a good job, and even if there was an antagonist at work, it was easily resolved. But the conflict between the two characters was believable, and their attraction was undeniable. I enjoy sapphic romance and am also bi, so it was a fun and relatable read. The most unrealistic part of this book for me was that a barkada had time to meet every Wednesday – haha! As of this writing, I am half way through the Beginner’s Guide and I am enjoying the tone and feel of the book, and the character’s perspective.
    
    I also collected the Cosmo/Summit Books, I remember being like 20 years old and really enjoying reading about women who were like me, had the same issues (well, at the time I didn’t have a kid yet, but the other stuff was really familiar).”
27. Maria Jose: “My favorites are First Time for Everything, Promdi Heart, and NomCom. I love First Time for Everything for its straightforward story-telling. The leads, both female and male, are relatable. Promdi Heart transports the reader to different places around the Philippines while telling different stories about love. I hope more romance stories set in various locations around the country are published. NomCom speaks to my foodie heart.”
28. Juli: “A community that writes, tells, and shares all things—with romance and happy ever afters. There’s a story for you. A story (or title) will catch your attention. It felt like it’s calling your name. You will feel connected to it. It will feel like it was written for you. You’ll feel seen and heard. You will also begin to or continue believing in love (for one’s self, for others, and for a partner) :)”
29. LJ Almonte: “You, Me, U.S. is not just a romance story. It is a story of an unlikely found friendship-turned-romance between two Filipino women who struggle in Philippine society and its culture. It also tackles the hard truths about the life of OFWs, sex work and interracial relationships. Main characters Jo and Liza are very relatable and I love how beautiful their relationship grows the more you read about them. It is so far not only the best romance I’ve read this year but also the best fiction too. And it is no wonder why it got an award. I will be forever in awe of this book. 5/5 stars.”
30. Angela Yu: “When I first started speaking to Mina, I have only read my friend’s books (plug: Go read Angel Aquino’s books – they are kilig 10x.). But since then, I have read a few more in the catalog, each different but equally good. I look forward to reading more of them, and also, I hope that I can help, in my own little way, the writing of new ones.”
31. Jamie S. Ayque: “I’ve known Romance Class for over 9 years, about the time I gave birth to my child. I’ve read Mina Esguerra’s Fairy Tale Fail and Never Just Friends, Agay Llanera’s This Side of Sunny and the Start Here compilation. Even while they’re written in English, I love how well they capture the Filipino culture. They’re entertaining as much as they are familiar, grounded and full of heart.
    
    I also think Romance Class is a great avenue to nurture Filipino romance writers. For people like me as well, who are finding our way back to what we love after years of building careers and families.”
32. Lis Florencio:
    
    Question: What do you think of the RomanceClass and the books you’ve read so far?
    
    I’ve learned about RomanceClass through a writer friend of mine, and having attended some of the live reading events from the mid to late 2010s, I think the community it formed has been a great way to connect romance readers and writers. It has also been a great avenue for aspiring writers to share and craft stories with people who can speak and understand romance, and possibly also gain refreshing perspectives. I also love that the community gets to showcase Filipino representation through these stories.
    
    Here are some of the RomanceClass books I’ve read:
    
    Chasing Mr. Prefect by Katt Briones
    I just have so much love for Cholo and Vinnie! For an enemies to friends to lovers trope, this is a very fun read! The banters are very spunky, witty, and effortlessly humorous. I consider it a light read with depth, especially when you learn about the characters’ backstories. 🥹
    
    Welcome to Envy Park by Mina V. Esguerra
    Welcome to Envy Park is an all-time favorite of mine. I have yet to read the latest edition, but the reason this story stuck with me is because Moira is relatable, especially in the career and financial building aspect, and trying to live independently. Also, her chemistry with Ethan just made me feel all the kilig there is. I remember having the biggest crush on him then 🙈(to think that I was also crushing on an actual IT colleague during the first time I read the book).
    
    Scandalized by Tara Frejas
    I just recently finished this one! It’s one of the books that got me out of my year-long book slump. As a K-pop fan myself, this is almost like a treat for my younger self who was very active in my fandom. I lived for the pining and the slow burn of the characters. 🫠
    
    No photos of the book but I’ll mention them here:
    
    Blast from Two Pasts by Kristel Anne Villar
    My friend (Katt) lent me this book around 10 years ago, and up until now, the feels of this story has stuck with me. Lucas (Basti) is a very lovable LI and I love the wedding prep setting, where MC is the maid of honor and Basti is the best man, if I remember correctly.
    
    Maybe This Time by C.P Santi
    This one was a light, heartwarming read. 😊 My favorite one was the one with the couple at the Arts Festival!
33. Brianna Ocampo: “I love the gentleness. There’s always a thread of gentleness that underpins the stories, and I love that RomanceClass authors always take such good care of their characters. Shoutout to the Alta anthology, which is beautifully put together and edited. Plus, bangable tito heroes are *chef’s kiss*.”
34. Daryl Figura shared a post about Better at Weddings Than You by Mina V. Esguerra.
35. Liwliwa Malabed shared a post about books by Agay Llanera and Mina V. Esguerra.
36. Kat Sales shared a post about RomanceClass, First Time for Everything, Comeback to Me, and Sweet on You.
37. KB Meniado: “I love #romanceclass! This community and the books help shape my understanding of personal agency, happiness, and justice.” KB shared a post about books read in 2025, which includes several RomanceClass books.
38. Anj shared a post recommending Some Bali to Love by Carla de Guzman, Beginner’s Guide by Six de los Reyes, and Ghost of a Feeling by Celestine Trinidad.
39. Aliana Marie: “I think RomanceClass is a great opportunity for new writers who wants to learn more about the romance genre. The book that I read from RomanceClass books is entitled, No Strings Attached by Mina V. Esguerra. This book got me feeling kilig throughout the entire story. I love also how they incorporate the typical Filipino mindset about being pressure on getting in a stable relationship when you are nearly your 30’s. It just gives the readers a glimpse of the societal pressure of what it is like being 30’s in a Filipino household. I also love the trope of being in casual, no-label relationship to something they want to take seriously. Dante is definitely a green flag because he knows what he wants in a relationship, he knows what he deserve, and he knows what he stands for. As for Carla’s character, I love how independent she is and how she doesn’t get swayed to the expectations of her friends.”
40. C. Stars: “So far, they are quite short compared to international books I’ve read, but the way of writing is all the same and I want to actually learn from that.”
41. Maire Calipes: “As someone who mainly reads romance and fantasy books, I have often been told that the books I read are “love story lang,” implying that my favorite stories are lesser than. So when I discovered RomanceClass, something in me felt less alone. RomanceClass books have a way of weaving magic and love quite literally (mythologies and folklore) and figuratively (that spark of a first “kilig” moment) into every page. This community proves romance is more than a category on a shelf; it is the pulse of human experience, and we should never have to justify choosing stories rooted in love and hope. That in a world that tells us love is ‘lang,’ we choose to see it as everything.”