AustLit

The editor's note for the first issue of states:

'Romance is a magazine for Australian readers, by Australian writers. We do not, however, print our stories because they are written by Australians, but because they are worth printing.

It is charged against Australian authors that their work is wanting in plot value and in literary excellence. Romance will prove to its readers that this charge is unfounded.

While a certain number of our stories each month will reflect the vigor and vitality characteristic of Australian life, others will mirror the glamour and mystery of other lands.'

The magazine included short stories and poetry. Among contributors were Myra Morris, Conrad Sayce, Frank Russell, Arthur Russell, Dorothy F. Lane, Marjorie Clark ('Georgia Rivers') and Mabel Forrest. The note to contributors describes the style and tone hoped for: 'The editor will be glad to consider stories of action: those with real plot value. While charcater studies are not barred, these must be of unusual interest to get past the editorial censor. Stories of Romance, Adventure, Mystery, Tragedy, Pathos, Humour, are all acceptable, but not stories that are morbid or that leave an uncomfortable feeling in the mind of the reader.'