Like Jo March of Little Women, one of the most admirable female protagonists in fiction, we’ve long grown past the narrative that “love is all a woman is fit for.” Women in diverse professional fields around the world have embodied this cultural shift through the years.
Amid persisting hardships and obstacles, Filipinas have taken charge, too—as community leaders, advocates, and artists who uplift each other’s stories without compromising their love for the world.
This year, the modern Filipina is taking her dreams, goals, purpose, and yes, even her love life to new heights with the revival of the Pinoy romance novel. Leading this new fun and flirty era of storytelling are the Indie Indays—five Filipina romance authors who are spreading all the feels across the country’s contemporary literary scene.
We’re getting to know them one by one this September—as prolific authors, “lover girls” by nature, and passionate working women with their hearts set on making their bestseller dreams come true.
Anj Miranda and the three novels in her Reyes Siblings series. Photo: Anj Miranda
When Anj Miranda discusses her favorite romantic tropes, it’s like watching Leonardo Da Vinci paint the Mona Lisa in real time.
Many new readers (and rom-com enthusiasts in general) see tropes as their roadmaps to the romance genre. They’re simple yet straightforward dynamics that encapsulate the journey and relationship a lead couple share. From the sheer chaos of “enemies to lovers,” to the endearingly awkward push and pull of “fake dating,” there’s a trope that’s bound to get you hooked on romance novels and make sense of the Oscar-worthy “delulu” moments in your own love life.
Tropes are everywhere and often in-your-face, but they work. They aim straight for our hearts, and we’re not complaining.
Anj’s books guarantee a masterclass in kilig beyond the tropes that anchor them. We’re lucky enough to have witnessed glimpses of the Manila-based author’s love stories through our quick chat her. Like our favorite rom-com protagonists who defined generations, Anj thrives most in cheesy, lovey-dovey dynamics that she weaves into her personal experiences.
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Let’s start by sharing a little about yourself, your pen name if you go by one, and your early days as an author.
Hello, I’m Anj Miranda! I’m an indie author of heartwarming contemporary romances with Filipino flavor. I love writing about flawed, relatable characters who fight for and eventually earn their “happily ever afters” (HEAs). Slow burn romances are my jam, and I mix in a strong dose of self-discovery, heaps of banter, and sprinkles of spice.
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Tell us more about the books you write. What can Filipino readers and aspiring authors expect from them?
My debut series, The Reyes Siblings, tells the stories of Tala, Luna, and Alonzo as they discover their own paths and find love along the way. It also explores themes of family, friendship, and belonging as influenced by the siblings’ Filipino identities.
The first book, The Off-Chance of Me and You, is a second-chance romance featuring the eldest sister, Tala, who is an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in the U.S., and her college friend-turned-National Basketball Association (NBA) star, Jason. Next, The Odds of Happily Ever After is a “grumpy and sunshine” dynamic—an extra slow burn romance between middle child, Luna, and Tala’s best friend, Gabe. Last but definitely not least, The Fallacy of True Love is an opposites-attract, “strangers to lovers” story featuring the youngest Reyes sibling, Alonzo, and surfer girl Cam, whom he meets on vacation in La Union.
All three books are out now, ready for you to binge-read.
Which of your titles would you recommend to first-time readers of modern Filipino romance?
I’d recommend reading the Reyes Siblings series in order, starting with The Off-Chance of Me and You. That said, each of the books can be read as a standalone, so you can begin with the one that has your favorite tropes. And if you’re looking for a book set in the Philippines, go with The Fallacy of True Love.
How would you describe a five-star Filipino romance novel?
My ideal five-star Filipino romance novel has realistic characters who grow throughout the story, a compelling relationship arc, and a couple that I can root for. I need to believe that they’re perfect for each other—that they can truly survive the conflict and make it to their HEAs. Give me yearning, tension, and kilig, please! Bonus points if the novel includes lovable side characters and a fun setting, too.
Where can we purchase your books?
My e-books are available on major ebook retailers, including Amazon, Kobo, Nook, Smashwords, and more. The paperbacks can be purchased on Amazon and my website. I’m working on making my books available on other platforms and bookstores, as well. You can follow me on Instagram for more updates.
ALSO READ: CATAVerse: Redefining Love and Relationships with Joyce Pring
Who are your favorite Filipino rom-com couples and characters? Share your picks with us in the comments below!
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