This dissertation explores how traditional beauty standards are being redefined through contemporary romance novels and their representation of protagonists with non-normative bodies. These stories explore themes such body positivism, self-acceptance, and personal worth, while also advocating for a more varied and inclusive representation. It was not until the COVID-19 pandemic that this type of novel began to gain greater visibility, largely due to the rise of social media platforms like TikTok. The publication of literary content on these platforms has allowed readers to discover more diverse works, featuring characters and plots that better align with their interests and needs. In this context, two novels that feature plus-size protagonists will be analysed: Set on You by Amy Lea and The Fastest Way to Fall by Denise Williams. These novels foster empathy and question social ideas surrounding desire and self-worth, while also giving visibility to traditionally excluded identities. Through this analysis, the study shows how the romance genre is evolving to include a greater number of voices and better reflect the reality of many readers.
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