Monthly Archives: February 2025

To Trope or Not to Trope—Do You Have a Choice?

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Tropes are everywhere in the world of storytelling. There’s no getting away from them, and honestly, you don’t necessarily want to because tropes are the foundational elements of storytelling.

So, how do you know which tropes to lean on and which tropes to reinvent to keep your stories fresh and inclusive?

It’s first helpful to understand what tropes are.

What are tropes?

Tropes serve as familiar themes or devices that resonate universally with audiences. While clichés can feel overused and predictable, tropes provide a framework upon which you can build innovative and engaging narratives with universal appeal.

Whether your readers know it or not, they expect tropes. Because tropes familiar. Because tropes let them know what kind of story they’re about to commit to.

It’s fair to say that some tropes are tired and overdone, though, and some need to straight up be done away with. 

So, what does a writer do, then, when creating story?

Here are ten enduring tropes from literature, film, and TV, along with examples and ways to reinvent them to give your storytelling new sparkle and verve.

1. The Hero’s Journey

This archetypal narrative follows a protagonist who heads out on an adventure, faces and overcomes a central crisis, and returns transformed. Joseph Campbell is known for creating this structure. 

Why readers like it
The hero’s journey resonates with readers because it mirrors the human experience of growth and self-discovery.

Examples
The Odyssey by Homer
Star Wars by George Lucas
The Lion King by Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts, and Linda Woolverton
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

How to reinvent
Introduce unexpected twists, make the hero flawed or morally ambiguous, change the nature of the “call to adventure,” have a non-traditional “ordinary world,” or even reverse the journey with the hero starting in the extraordinary world and the purpose of the quest being to return to normalcy.

2. Enemies to Lovers

A staple in romance narratives, this trope involves characters who begin with animosity toward each other and by the end develop romantic feelings for each other. The transformation from hostility to love allows for deep character development and engaging tension.

Why readers like it
Enemies to lovers reminds readers of deep emotional and psychological dynamics that make for compelling storytelling and that delivers powerful emotional release with attention to character growth and depth along the way. It also draws upon our culturally—and quite possibly, biologically—embedded belief that love conquers all.

Examples
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
You’ve Got Mail by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron
Dirty Dancing by Eleanor Bergstein
Veronica Mars by Rob Thomas
The Proposal by Peter Chiarelli

How to reinvent
Focus on creating complex reasons for their initial conflict, explore nuanced character development beyond simply “hating” each other, add unexpected twists to their dynamic, and incorporate paths to self-discovery or personal growth that drive their attraction by the end.

3. The Chosen One

The Chosen One trope centers on a protagonist destined to fulfill an important role or prophecy, often possessing unique abilities or qualities. This trope typically highlights themes like destiny, responsibility, and an individual’s impact on the world. 

Why readers like it
Readers love this trope because it resonates with the human desire for a sense of purpose and destiny, often overcoming challenges to fulfill a greater good. It can also be seen as a form of wish fulfillment, where an ordinary person is thrust into an extraordinary situation with special abilities, providing a sense of excitement and potential for personal growth. 

Examples
The Matrix by The Wachowskis (Lana and Lilly)
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
Infinity Son by Adam Silvera
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
The Bible

How to reinvent
Subvert expectations by making the chosen one reluctant, flawed, or even ordinary, giving them a complex relationship with their destiny, exploring the burden of their “chosenness,” or have multiple “chosen ones” with different abilities or motivations, all while focusing on their personal growth and choices rather than the prophecy or quest itself.

4. The Mentor/Apprentice

The Mentor/Apprentice trope features a wise and experienced character who guides the protagonist, providing wisdom, training, or support. Mentors in this trope are crucial to the protagonist’s development, offering the knowledge and encouragement needed to face challenges. 

Why readers like it
Readers resonate with this trope because of its relatable, universal appeal—it’s found in every culture. The Chosen One trope provides a satisfying storytelling arc of the protagonist’s path to personal development, which is inspiring to witness. 

Examples
The Karate Kid by Robert Mark Kamen
Dead Poets Society by Tom Schulman
Mulan by Xu We (original – 1500) / Rita Hsiao et. al (1998)A Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Muriel Spark

How to reinvent
Explore elements like power dynamic shifts and unexpected mentor-mentee pairings. Give the protagonist more complex motivations, beyond  skill acquisition. Subvert the usual by having the “apprentice” teach the “mentor” in certain areas.

5. The Underdog

Everybody loves to cheer for the underdog, the disadvantaged character who overcomes obstacles through sheer determination, integrity, and wit. 

Why readers like it
The Underdog trope appeals to audiences’ sense of justice and inspires hope. 

Examples
Rocky by Sylvester Stallone
The Pursuit of Happiness by Chris Gardner
Spotlight by Tom McCarthy and Josh Singer
The Shawshank Redemption by Frank Darabont (adapted from Stephen King’s novel)
A League of Their Own by Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel 

How to reinvent it
Consider complex motivations beyond simply overcoming odds. Add layers to the character’s “underdog” status—how/why did they become an underdog, and was it due to their own past actions? Challenge the typical narrative of “good vs evil” dichotomy. Incorporate unexpected strengths or weaknesses in the protagonist, and focus on the emotional journey of the character rather than the victory itself

6. The Lovable Jerk: Abusive Husband Couched in Humor

The Lovable Jerk trope appears frequently in sitcoms, featuring a husband’s selfish, thoughtless, or even abusive behavior portrayed as comedic. This trope draws criticism because the humor glosses over the harm the husband inflicts on his wife, and audiences are encouraged to laugh instead of explore the deeper implications of these kinds of relationship dynamics.

Why readers/viewers like it
Probably not a popular claim, but it seems that mostly men like these types of stories (and I’m sure there are exceptions: men who do not like them and women who do), and usually men who are not aware of how these types of stories are harmful for everyone involved. The Lovable Jerk trope reinforces the unchecked privilege that men enjoy.

Examples
The Simpsons by Matt Groening (creator)
Family Guy by Seth McFarlane (creator)
All in the Family by Norman Lear (developer)
Married with Children by Michael G. Moye and Ron Leavitt (creators)
King of Queens by Michael J. Weithorn and David Litt (creators)

How to reinvent
Watch Kevin Can F*ck Himself on Netflix. This series turns the Lovable Jerk trope on its head by showing the real affect of his behavior on his wife, and how she grapples with the fallout of it. 

Try exploring how a wife in this trope comes to terms with why she’s in the relationship, and if and how she will leave it. And if you’re in a giving mood, add layers of complexity to the husband’s motivations and behaviors, showcasing a softer side (if it’s there) through subtle actions. Explore the reasons behind his gruff exterior, while making efforts not to use his “jerk” behavior as an excuse to be malicious.

7. The Desperate Gamble: Drug Deal/Crime Gone Wrong

The Drug Deal/Crime Gone Wrong trope is a classic one that creates instant tension when a planned, straightforward exchange goes awry. Chaos ensues and often results in betrayal, violence, or unintended consequences. This trope thrives on the fragile connections with alliances in high-stakes situations and forces characters into moral dilemmas. Its success lies in unpredictability. When a deal crumbles, it sets off a domino effect that shapes the entire narrative.

Why readers/viewers like it
This trope provides a sense of exhilaration and high-level anticipation, while giving readers and viewers a vicarious release for their own personal fantasies. This trope also forces readers and viewers to grapple with the moral complexities of right and wrong, especially when they’re in the position of rooting for the character on the wrong end of the law.

Examples
Breaking Bad by Vince Gilligan et al.
Good Girls by Jenna Bans (creator)
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson
No Country for Old Men by Cormack McCarthy
Scarface by Oliver Stone

How to reinvent
Focus on unconventional players (think housewife turned weed dealer, Nancy Botwin in the series, Weeds). Create unexpected alliances and outcomes for the protagonist. 

8. The Elaborate Heist

A great heist story balances meticulous planning with unforeseen complications, forcing characters to adapt on the fly. 

Why readers like it
Readers/viewers love to root for underdog thieves who outwit the system (and sometimes each other). Likewise, when the thieves are seasoned, readers are drawn in by their intelligence and, oftentimes, charm.

Examples
Ocean’s Eleven by Ted Griffin (based on the 1960 version)
The Italian Job by Troy Kennedy Martin
Heat by Michael Mann
Mission Impossible by various (based on 1966 TV version by Bruce Geller)
The Bank Job by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais

How to reinvent
Add fresh layers by using unique settings, diverse team members and dynamics, or a twist in motives (e.g., robbing a villain).

9. The Barren Woman

While powerful, this trope can be highly problematic because it reduces  and defines women solely by their desire and/or ability to bear children. Stories of this type explore important themes like grief, longing, and unfulfilled desires and also consider identity, worth, and societal pressure. These stories are emotionally charged and can, unfortunately, reinforce stereotypes of infertile women as bitter, broken, and/or irrational. This trope can also include women who have chosen not to have children and the struggles they endure because of their decision.

Why readers like it
For some who are struggling with infertility and want a child, this story type can provide validation for their experience (if the story is told with compassion), present possible solutions, and/or help them come to terms with their reality. 

Examples
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
Heart Choice by Robin D. Owens
The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson
Tears of a Barren Woman by Shadrack Omary
Hansel and Gretel by Wilhelm Grimm and Jacob Grim

How to reinvent
Strive to create nuanced portrayals that explore how the infertile woman confronts societal expectations, builds alternative legacies, or finds empowerment outside traditional roles. Show the lives of women who have chosen not to have children as full, vibrant, and accomplished, and depict them with the ability to show compassion, rather than using the choice they’ve made as an act of defiance.

10. The Found Family

This trope emphasizes the creation of a family-like bond between people who are not biologically related, sometimes by choice and sometimes by circumstance.

Why readers like it
This trope resonates because it celebrates the idea that love and connection can transcend bloodlines, offering hope to those who are alienated or estranged from their birth families.

Examples
Guardians of the Galaxy by James Gunn and Nicole Perlman
Firefly by Joss Whedon (creator)
The Breakfast Club by John Hughes
The Sandlot by David Mickey Evans and Robert Gunter
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

How to reinvent
Explore unconventional dynamics or the ways found families challenge and redefine traditional family norms. Add complexity by connecting characters with diverse backgrounds and how they resolve internal struggles within the found family unit. Highlight the process of building trust by showing a “found family” that is initially antagonistic and gradually learns to rely on each other. 

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Understanding tropes will allow you to craft stories that connect deeply with readers and viewers. The key is to infuse them with unique twists, while keeping them engaging and preventing them from becoming clichés.

Incorporating these timeless tropes thoughtfully, with creative innovation, can enhance storytelling and provide familiar touchstones that offer fresh and compelling narratives.

This short list is only a beginning to exploring the vast array of tropes.

What are some tropes you like and don’t like?

How have you seen overused or outdated tropes refreshed?

Please leave me a comment here or over on my YouTube channel. 

Sending you mad writing mojo…

Happy writing!

Rules for Writing Erotica—How to Craft Passionate and Compelling Stories

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Like it or hate it, the novel Fifty Shades of Grey ushered in a more mainstream acceptance of erotic storylines. The genre has become so popular, three German academics conducted a study to understand the trend. They discovered that this genre’s audience generally consists of highly educated, emancipated, feminist, progressive women from a broad age span who cite reasons for embracing the genre as “distraction and feelings of ease.”

Writing erotica can be exciting and rewarding, and it’s a craft that requires sensitivity, skill, and sophistication. Whether you’re new to the genre or looking to refine your technique, understanding the essential rules for writing erotica will help you create stories that captivate and resonate with readers devoted to the genre. 

Why not add to the cannon of this growing and more accepted genre? 

Feeling shy about what your friends and family might think or say if they were to read your erotica? That’s what pen names are for! 

Here are some important guidelines to keep in mind when venturing into the world of writing erotica.

1. Know Your Audience

Erotica is a diverse genre with a wide variety of sub-genres and reader expectations. Some readers enjoy explicit and adventurous scenarios, while others prefer subtle, romantic depictions of love and intimacy. Before you start. your first draft, take the time to:

Research the market—Read works by successful authors in the genre, and if there’s a sub-genre that calls to you, find those, too.

Identify your niche—Decide if your story will focus on contemporary romance, mystery, gothic, LGBTQ+ relationships, or other themes.

Understand tone and style—Know what your audience prefers, whether it’s poetic and sensual or direct and raw, based on the genre you’re working with

Knowing your audience will help guide your choices in word choice, tone, themes, and plot development.

2. Prioritize Consent and Boundaries

Writing erotica means being responsible and consent-focused. In fact, it’s a cornerstone of the genre these days. No matter who the characters are or the intensity of the scenes, all interactions should be consensual. Make it clear that both parties are participating in the events of their own free will and that their boundaries are respected.

Explicit consent—Show characters communicating their desires and limits.

Nonverbal cues—Use body language and reactions to reinforce mutual enthusiasm.

Avoid problematic tropes—Stay away from scenarios that could be interpreted as coercive or non-consensual unless they are explicitly negotiated role-play.

Including clear consent not only adds realism to your work, but it also keeps it ethical. 

3. Create Well-Developed Characters

Erotica is more than a bunch of explicit scenes. Readers need and want to care about the characters in your story before they’re going to care about the intimate scenes you write. Invest time in creating:

Relatable personalities—Give your characters human strengths, flaws, and unique quirks. What are their desires, why do they have them, and how do they go about realizing them?

Genuine connections—Show emotional chemistry alongside physical attraction. Creating connections of substance adds depth to your story and helps readers connect with your characters emotionally.

Distinct motivations—Strive for authentic and grounded personalities in your characters, especially when it comes to their  desires and choices. Always ask yourself: Why does she want that? Why is she behaving this way? 

When your characters are fully realized, their intimate moments will feel more meaningful and compelling.

4. Set the Scene

There’s no “perfect” setting for erotica because, well… Human attraction is human attraction. But… setting plays a crucial role in erotic stories. It can heighten tension and establish mood, and sometimes become like a character itself. Whether your story takes place in a luxurious penthouse, a secluded forest, or a chocolate shop, vivid descriptions will draw readers into your story world.

Atmosphere—Use sensory details to evoke textures, smells, sounds, and sights that enhance the mood. Draw your readers INTO your scenes.

Metaphor and Symbolism—Incorporate elements of the setting that reflect the characters’ emotions or desires. Using metaphor and symbolism will accomplish this with depth and meaning.

Variety—Experiment with different locations to keep your story dynamic and engaging. Allow your characters to lead vibrant lives that take them to settings that further tell your story.

The environment and setting should be an integral part of the story that enhances the characters’ experiences and interactions.

5. Balance Explicitness and Subtlety

Writing erotica is a balancing act. Readers expect a certain level of explicitness, but keep in mind that graphic or mechanical portrayals of love scenes can dilute the story’s emotional impact. Aim for:

Emotion-driven intimacy—Focus on how the characters feel, both emotionally and physically, and let their feelings drive their behaviors.

Varied pacing—Alternate between quiet, sensual moments and more intense, passionate ones. Think of it as an ebb and flow, a rise and fall. Create a rhythm by engaging readers with tension, then ease up to give them a break.

Avoiding clichés—Craft unique language that evokes feelings and sensations in the reader that parallel those of your characters. Use unexpected analogies and metaphors that lend texture to the language and meaning of your story.

Remember, sometimes less is more. Implied or understated moments can be just as powerful as explicit ones.

6. Develop a Compelling Plot

Erotica doesn’t exist in a vacuum. A strong plot provides context for the intimacy and keeps readers invested in the story. Consider:

Conflict and tension—Introduce challenges that the characters must overcome, whether external obstacles or internal struggles. Give your readers a protagonist they can relate to and root for.

Character growth—Show how the characters evolve through their experiences and relationships. Understanding the psychology and backstory of your characters will help you depict their growth.

Subplots—Incorporate secondary storylines to add depth and complexity so long as they don’t detract from the central storyline.

A well-crafted plot ensures that your story remains engaging beyond the intimate scenes.

7. Respect Diversity and Representation

Erotica has the power to explore diverse identities, relationships, and experiences. Writing with inclusivity in mind broadens your audience and enriches your storytelling.

Avoid stereotypes—Create multidimensional characters rather than relying on clichéd or reductive portrayals. 

Research—If you’re writing about identities or cultures outside your own experience, consult authentic sources and rely on sensitivity readers. Contemporary readers are too savvy for easy answers or stereotypical cardboard characters.

Celebrate variety—Explore different body types, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship dynamics. Make your cast of characters as diverse as the people you see around you.

Authentic representation enhances the emotional resonance and relatability of your work. It also builds trust with your audience.

8. Revise and Edit Thoroughly

First drafts are rarely perfect, especially in erotica, where tone, pacing, and language are critical. Take the time to:

Check for consistency—Ensure characters’ actions and emotions align with their established personalities. Again, always ask questions: Would she behave this way? What would she do?

Refine language—Polish descriptions to make them vivid and engaging without being overly flowery or repetitive. 

Seek feedback—Share your work with trusted critique partners or beta readers to identify areas for improvement. Regardless of the genre, it’s always wise to get feedback.

Editing is where your story truly comes to life, so take the time to make your words sing.

9. Know the Rules to Break Them

It’s true that writing rules and guidelines provide a solid foundation for any writer or genre. It’s also true that erotica is a creative genre that thrives on innovation and risk-taking. Once you understand the basics, feel free to:

Experiment with unconventional formats, such as diary entries or epistolary style, or try unique structuring devices or code switching.

Blend genres. Think: mystery, fantasy, or sci-fi.

Subvert tropes and challenge readers’ expectations. Avoid going with the first idea you have. Take the time to explore how to deepen and strengthen your characters to show readers stories they haven’t read before.

Breaking the rules thoughtfully can lead to new, intriguing stories that stand out in the genre.

10. Write with Authenticity and Passion

The most compelling erotica comes from a place of authenticity. Write what excites and inspires you, and your enthusiasm will shine through in your work.

Be fearless—Don’t shy away from exploring bold or taboo themes, as long as they’re handled with care. This is where your best writing will have room to rise to the surface.

Stay true to your voice—Let your unique perspective and style infuse your writing. There’s no one like you in the world, so lean on that when you write.

Enjoy the process—Writing erotica should be as pleasurable and fulfilling as reading it. Have fun!

When you write with genuine passion, your stories will resonate with readers and leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Writing erotica is a challenging yet rewarding craft that requires creativity, sensitivity, and skill. By following these rules, you’ll be well-equipped to create stories that are not only passionate and intimate but also meaningful and memorable. So, dive in with an open mind, and don’t be afraid to push boundaries. Your readers are waiting to be captivated by the story worlds you create.

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Ten notable erotica novels that have won the attention of readers with their sensual themes and compelling narratives.

Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James—This novel explores the complex relationship between a college graduate and a young business magnate, and explores themes of dominance and submission.

The Siren by Tiffany Reisz—This book is part of ‘The Original Sinners’ series. It blends romance and intrigue, and introduces readers to an erotica author with a provocative personal life.

Bared to You by Sylvia Day—This story follows two individuals with troubled pasts as they navigate a tumultuous, passionate relationship.

Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon—A unique blend of science fiction and erotica, this novel tells the story of a woman abducted by aliens who finds unexpected romance on an icy planet.

The Duke and I by Julia Quinn—The first book in the ‘Bridgerton’ series, this novel combines historical romance with sensual storytelling.

A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas—This fantasy novel intertwines erotic romance with a richly built world, perfect for fans of  ‘romantasy.’

The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty by Anne Rice (as A.N. Roquelaure)—This novel puts an erotic twist on a retelling of the classic fairy tale, and explores themes of power and submission.

Gifting Me to His Best Friend by Katee Robert—Part of the ‘A Touch of Taboo’ series, this novella explores unconventional desires in a consensual setting.

Lady Chatterley’s Lover by D.H. Lawrence—Thisclassic novel delves into the affair between a young married woman and her gamekeeper, challenging the conventions of the era in which it was written.

Delta of Venus by Anaïs Nin—A collection of erotic short stories that explore the complexities of sexual desire and human relationships.

Rules for Writing Romance Novels—How to Create Love Stories That Meet the Genre’s Demands

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Ever dreamed of writing a romance novel? 

If you’re an avid reader and a fan of the genre, or if you think it would be a fun way to make a few extra dollars, you’ll need to understand the expectations of romance readers so you can meet this huge, devoted audience where they are and deliver. 

Let’s break down the fundamentals that every romance writer should know.

1. Focus on the Central Love Story

At the heart of every romance novel is a love story, of course. This doesn’t mean you can’t include subplots or delve into the personal growth of your characters, but the romantic relationship should always take center stage. Readers expect to follow the journey of two (or more) characters as they navigate obstacles, discover their feelings, and ultimately find love. If the love story feels secondary to another plot line, you risk losing your audience.

2. Guarantee a Happily Ever After (HEA) or Happy For Now (HFN)

Romance readers expect a satisfying conclusion. (It’s not real life, after all.) The characters don’t necessarily need to get married or ride off into the sunset, but the ending should make it clear that their relationship is solid and that they’re happier together than apart. In contemporary romance, an HFN might involve the couple committing to each other without immediate plans for marriage or children. You can have a tragic ending or unresolved romance in your novel, but that will put it outside the romance genre.

3. Create Compelling, Relatable Characters

Strong characters are essential for a great romance novel. Your protagonists should be multidimensional, with human strengths, flaws, as well as relatable desires and motivations. You want your readers to root for them and see them as real people. Your characters don’t have to be perfect. In fact, imperfections often make them more engaging. What’s important is that their growth and emotional journey feel authentic.

4. Develop Emotional Intensity

Romance thrives on emotion. The story should evoke feelings of joy, heartbreak, passion, and longing in your readers. To accomplish this, delve deep into your characters’ inner lives. What are their fears, desires, and vulnerabilities? How do these play into their relationship? Show readers the highs and lows of falling in love through vivid, emotionally charged scenes.

5. Establish Chemistry Between the Characters

Chemistry is the magic that makes a romance novel unforgettable. It’s not just about physical attraction (though that’s often a component) but also about the connection between your characters. Their interactions should crackle with energy, whether they’re bantering, arguing, or sharing quiet moments. Show their growing bond through dialogue, body language, and small details, like gestures of love.

6. Introduce Conflict and Tension

Obstacles are essential in the romance genre. Conflict creates the tension that keeps readers turning the page. This can be internal (a character’s fear of commitment) or external (a meddling ex, a rivalry that creates jealousy, a family feud, or geographic distance). The key is to ensure that the conflict is believable and rooted in the characters’ lives. Avoid manufactured drama that feels forced or melodramatic.

7. Pace the Relationship Realistically

While romance novels often have a faster pace than real-life relationships, the progression of the romance should still feel natural. Give your characters time to get to know each other and build trust. Even if they’re physically attracted right away, emotional intimacy should develop more gradually. It creates great tension, too.

8. Craft Engaging Dialogue

Great dialogue is essential in a romance novel. It’s through conversations that your characters reveal their personalities, share their vulnerabilities, and build their connection. Aim for dialogue that feels natural but purposeful. Every line should either advance the plot, deepen the relationship, or reveal something about the characters.

9. Show, Don’t Tell

The age-old writing adage most definitely applies here. Instead of telling readers that your characters are in love, show it through their actions, words, and thoughts. For instance, instead of writing, “She loved him,” describe how her heart races when she sees him, how she gets butterflies when she thinks of him, or how she defends him if a family member or friend has doubts about him. By showing the relationship’s progression, and your protagonist’s growing devotion to her love interest, you allow readers to experience the love story firsthand.

10. Choose the Appropriate Setting

While there’s no “right” setting for a romance novel—because love happens everywhere—the setting of your romance novel can greatly enhance the story. Whether it’s a small-town bakery, a bustling city, or a college campus, the setting should contribute to the mood and themes of the novel. Always remember to use sensory details—honor all five senses—to bring the world to life and create opportunities for romantic moments. 

11. Be Mindful of Tropes

Tropes are common themes or plot devices that appear frequently in romance novels, such as “enemies to lovers,” “fake dating,” “forbidden love,” or “love triangle.” While tropes can provide a familiar framework, they can also feel clichéd if not handled thoughtfully. Put your own spin on popular tropes to make them fresh and unique.

12. Balance the Degree of Intimacy and Plot

Romance novels vary widely in their explicit content. Some focus on the sweetness of relationships, while others explore lusty encounters. The level of intimacy should fit the story and characters. No matter the degree of explicitness, scenes in your story should always serve the plot and character development.

13. Understand Your Sub-genre

Romance is a diverse genre with numerous sub-genres, from contemporary, gothic, paranormal, and romantic suspense to historical, time travel, LGBTQ+, and more. Each sub-genre comes with its own conventions and reader expectations. For example, a historical romance would likely require meticulous research for historical accuracy, while a paranormal romance might demand an otherworldly, imaginative approach.

14. Edit Ruthlessly

First drafts are rarely perfect, so get comfortable with that truth. Think of the first draft as you telling yourself the story. Then, take the time to revise and polish your manuscript’s second draft (and third and fourth, if necessary). Look for inconsistencies in character behavior, plot holes, and areas where the pacing drags. Pay special attention to emotional beats and dialogue so they resonate. Consider seeking feedback from beta readers or critique partners who are familiar with the romance genre.

15. Respect Your Audience

Romance readers are devoted and discerning. They know what they like and expect stories that deliver on the genre’s promises. Avoid stereotypes, clichés, or outdated attitudes and beliefs that might alienate your audience. Instead, focus on creating inclusive, respectful, and emotionally engaging stories that celebrate love in all its forms.

Conclusion

Writing a romance novel is about more than just crafting a love story. It’s about creating an emotional journey that readers can’t put down. By following these rules and infusing your unique voice and creativity, you can craft a romance novel that resonates with readers and leaves them swooning. Remember, the heart of a great romance is authenticity, so let your characters and their love story come through.

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10 Romance Novels Across Sub-Genres

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen – A classic Regency romance featuring the iconic love story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy.

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon – A time-travel romance blending history, adventure, and passion between Claire Randall and Jamie Fraser.

The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks – A contemporary tearjerker about a lifelong love affair.

Bridgerton: The Duke and I by Julia Quinn – The first book in the Bridgerton series, full of regency romance and witty banter.

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes – A heartfelt, bittersweet romance between Louisa Clark and Will Traynor.

The Hating Game by Sally Thorne – A fun enemies-to-lovers workplace romance.

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston – A modern queer romance featuring the son of the U.S. president and a British prince.

Seven Days in June by Tia Williams—A beautifully written, emotionally intense romance about two authors who had a passionate affair as teens and reconnect years later. 

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion – A quirky romance featuring a genetics professor’s unconventional search for love.

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell – A young adult romance about first love and the struggles that come with it.

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Do you read or write romance? If so, what sub-genre is your favorite?

Sending you mad writing mojo…

Happy writing!

Love and Customs—The Long, Not-So-Romantic Path to the Day of Love

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I don’t like Valentine’s Day. 

I know, I know… You must be thinking… Is she jaded? Has her heart frozen over? Who hurt her?

No, I’m not jaded. At least I don’t see it that way. Age has just made me more practical.

No, I don’t think my heart has gone cold. There are a few people in my life I love deeply. And I’m frequently touched to tears by gestures of kindness.

And yes, plenty of people have hurt me, but we can all say that, can’t we?

I guess I have a problem with obligatory holidays that support behaviors I think we ought to live every day, all for the sake of a capitalistic agenda. I cringe at the practice of monetizing something like love to fill the pockets of corporations.

According to Capital One Shopping, “Consumer spending on Valentine’s Day 2024 totaled $25.8 billion.”

The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that “Consumers are expected to spend a record $27.5 billion on Valentine’s Day this year.” 

It’s as if, at least for a day, those who embrace the holiday attempt to express their undying love by attempting to satisfy all five love languages just to cover all the bases.

So, how do we make sense of this kind of consumer behavior?

Understanding Love

Photo by Anete Lusina (Pexels)

To thoroughly explore the psychology behind the rush to buy and spend on V-Day to show one’s love would mean a more in-depth research effort than I’ve done here. But it does help to remember the power of this sometimes destabilizing emotion.

Through the ages, humans have attempted to find, understand, explain, and quantify love, which can encompasses everything from compassion, grace, honor, and respect, to infatuation, lust, limerence, and obsession. It can drive many sane humans to a kind of madness. 

And lovesickness is a thing. From chemical changes in the body and intense emotions, the experience of falling in love can make you physically ill. 

Science shows that love is, in fact, a drug. Being love-struck bathes your brain in dopamine, the feel-good hormone, and it can leave you with a similar euphoria associated with cocaine or alcohol.

Humans seem to be in love with the idea of love… Of people being brought together in some way—whether through a planned introduction by friends or a chance meeting while going through the motions of living a life—and then being held together for eternity by this unexplainable emotion.

Some have spoken to the pain of love. 

  • “Love is a temporary insanity curable by marriage.” —Gabriel Heatter
  • “Pleasure of love lasts but a moment. Pain of love lasts a lifetime.” – Bette Davis
  • “So it’s true when all is said and done, grief is the price we pay for love.” — E.A. Bucchianeri 

And many have waxed poetic about love’s benefits.

  • “Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.” —Aristotle
  • “Where there is love there is life.” — Mahatma Gandhi
  • “Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place.” — Zora Neale Hurston.

Needless to say, when it comes to the greatest human emotion (so it is said), the line between love and lust, sanity and insanity, can be a murky blur of confusion. 

To attempt clarity, it might help to look back to the beginnings of Valentine’s Day.

Lupercalia

Annibale Carracci – Lupercalia, Rome – PICRYL – Public Domain 

The first documented “love” celebrations were those of Lupercalia, an ancient Roman festival celebrated on February 15 from Rome’s founding, around 753 BCE through the end of the 5th century CE. 

The ancient Romans’ notions of love will look a bit perverse to most of us. But many may also not be surprised at the blatant misogyny expressed in the ceremony itself. 

Lupercalia, also called dies Februatus, after the februa—purification instruments—was a pastoral festival observed every year from February 13 to February 15 with the intention to purify the City of Rome and promote fertility and health (while some have associated the celebration with the Roman fertility god, Lupercus).

Word has it that the festival started with animal sacrifices, and some say that after a feast, priests ran from Palatine Hill (where Rome was founded) to the Roman Forum whipping people with bloody strips of animal hide, a symbolic gesture of purification. 

Other accounts tell of a matchmaking ceremony wherein women’s names were drawn from jars by men in attendance, resulting in pairings, of sorts, with the women (fully naked) being slapped with the bloody strips of hide by the men (fully clothed) and having no choice whether or not to “spend time” with the men who had drawn their names—all in the name of fertility.

And still others believe it was connected with the she-wolf Lupa, who nursed Romulus and Remus, after they had been tossed into the Tiber River to drown, all for their mother’s broken vow of celibacy, then rescued by a servant who put them in a basket, which was found and carried by a river-god until it became caught in the branches of a fig tree, and was then discovered by Lupa and cared for by her at the base of Palatine Hill in a den.

Now that’s love…

St. Valentine

St. Valentine—http://interestingliterature.com/2014/02/13/the-literary-origins-of-valentines-day/, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

While the Catholic Church recognized three martyred St. Valentines, it is believed that St. Valentine of Terni is the one responsible for the holiday we know as Valentine’s Day. 

The story goes that during a time in history (around 278 CE) when Roman Emperor Claudius II deemed marriage unlawful as a way to encourage men to join the army, St. Valentine, apparently a romantic at heart, performed ceremonies for love-struck couples in secret. When Claudius II discovered the transgressor’s actions, he beheaded him, but just before his visit to the guillotine, St. Valentine penned a note bidding his people farewell and signed it “From Your Valentine.”

His remains are kept in the Basilica of Terni near Rome, and to this day, every year on February 14, they are carried in a small trek to the city’s main cathedral where hundreds of people gather and promise to a lifetime of faithful love. 

No one knows whether Pope Gelasius’ declaration of February 14 as the First Feast Day of Saint Valentine in 496 CE was simply to honor St. Valentine, or if was meant to cast a more Christian light on the bloody and violent Lupercalia Festival.

Alternatives to Valentine’s Day

Photo by SALOMON BYUMA (Pexels)

So, what do those of us who are committed to singledom do on the Day of Love? 

Many of us carry on as if it’s just another day (it is), while many of us treat ourselves with gestures of self-love (please do this every day), and still others fall prey to loneliness. 

If you’re part of the lonely crowd, follow Leslie Knope’s (Park and Recreation) lead and invite all your girlfriends (if you’re a woman) to a 

Galentine’s Day brunch, typically celebrated on February 13. 

It’s noted to be a day when women leave their husbands and boyfriends at home to show some love to their fellow woman friends. (I can’t help but call out the blatant heteronormativity here.)

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Whatever you think or feel about the day, whether or not you celebrate it, keep in mind that everything we believe and/or celebrate comes from a story of some kind. And usually, those stories have undergone some significant revisions. 

Why not create your own version of what the Day of Love is all about?

What does that look like for you?