reported by Nigel Gimble, FictionFanatic.com

Once thought of as two separate entities, real-life relationships and fictional romance are brought together as one common theme.

"Most people don't think about how much their relationships have in common with fictional romance," said Tameka Norris, editor of Romantic Short Love Stories. "But stories teach us lessons everyday. Whether it's the news, a movie, or simply a book we choose to read. We're constantly learning."

What began as a simple concept of trying to promote her own work turned into something else altogether. "It just sort of got out of hand. An idea that kept snowballing and before I knew it... it wasn't about me anymore. It was about love on a universal level and the romance and relationship problems we all face everyday. So I thought, 'what better way to spend my time than to come up with ideas on how to keep the romance alive and offer stories at the same time.'"

The romance site launched in October 2005 and has since then become a fairly popular community of romance fans, writers, and those seeking relationship advice; a place where visitors can find true and fictional love stories.

"Everyone likes to escape from the real world from time to time," said Tameka. "But they also enjoy reading stories about people they can relate to-that help them solve their own problems. So, eventually it only made sense to me to offer it all in one place-a place where fiction and nonfiction could unite in marriage. Definably, what I like to call 'The best of both worlds.'"

Those seeking inventive ways to revive their romance are provided with the "Guide to Romance," along with advice from romance authors and other experts that offer an in-depth look at the differences and commonalities between real-life and fictional romance. Remaining are true love stories and short stories for romance fans who like to be entertained as well as articles offering interesting tips on reading romance and tutorials on how to write it.

In the near future romance writers will also be able to take advantage of a critique service, which will offer them valuable help on strengthening their story and writing abilities for a small fee.

"It's a very well-rounded community," said Tameka. "I try to include everything I know I'd want to learn about. I think the site thrives for many reasons, other than the concept-people really get a sense of comfort there. And it keeps them coming back for more."

Website: www.romantic-short-love-stories.com

Recommended Resources:

1) The Romance Writer's Handbook: How to Write Romantic Fiction & Get It Published by Rebecca Vinyard

2) Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting Your Romance Published by Julie Beard

3) Writing a Romance Novel for Dummies by Leslie Wainger