I find it difficult to read romance books while I'm writing romance. Once the book I'm writing is done then it's fine, I go on a romance reading binge, but until then... well, I usually stick to reading factual books or crime or whatever, anything but romance.

I don't know why this is, but maybe I am worrying I may inadvertently rewrite someone elses story--although there are only so many plots in the universe, I believe. I know my fragile ego often finds it hard when comparing itself to other romance writers' books, so that's another reason to avoid them. Or maybe there's only room for one romance at a time in my head.

Funnily romance movies aren't a problem. In fact I watch lots of romantic movies while I'm writing, and I find it helps put me in the zone.

I know plenty of other romance writers who don't have this problem, so perhaps it's just me. But I certainly get through a lot of crime novels and biographies while I'm writing my romance books!