Toronto romance writer Lily Chu has a unique approach to perfecting her novels — she listens to them being read aloud by her computer while going about her daily activities. This technique, known as an “audio edit,” helps Chu ensure a captivating and immersive experience for her readers.
Chu, who prioritizes releasing her books as audiobooks before print, tailors her storytelling to cater to multi-tasking audiences. This strategy aligns well with the growing trend of people engaging with audiobooks while working, commuting, or doing household chores, as highlighted in a recent report by BookNet Canada.
Her debut novel, “The Stand-In,” was conceived during the 2020 pandemic and was picked up by Audible, an online audiobook and podcast service, for an “audio-first” release. Since then, Chu has continued to collaborate with Audible, with her latest release, “Just Kiss Already,” marking her sixth book to debut as an audiobook.
The surge in romance audiobooks reflects a broader shift in the industry, driven by factors like pandemic-induced isolation and a desire for guilt-free escapism. Diana Dapito, Audible’s head of global consumer content, notes that romance stands out as one of the fastest-growing genres on the platform in Canada, resonating with nearly a third of listeners. This trend is further supported by the doubling of audiobook preference among readers from 8% in 2020 to 16% in 2025, as reported by BookNet Canada.
Romance audiobooks offer a unique form of escapism and intimacy, with narrators like Angelina Rocca skillfully creating a cinematic experience for listeners through sound effects and vocal nuances that center on women’s pleasure and perspectives. This attention to detail enhances the emotional immersion and character connections crucial to the genre, as emphasized by Dapito.
Despite historical stigmas surrounding romance novels, the genre’s current popularity has created a more accepting environment for fans. Sarah Wendell, co-founder of Smart Bitches, Trashy Books, highlights the private and immersive nature of audiobooks, allowing listeners to explore romantic narratives without judgment. The accessibility of audio subscription apps further enables listeners to explore different styles and levels of sensuality within the genre.
As the romance audiobook industry continues to flourish, it provides a space for both creators and consumers to embrace storytelling, sensuality, and escapism in a dynamic and evolving landscape.
