"Love is like the wind. You can't see it, but you can feel it."
Nicholas Sparks
Writers of romance have a tricky task. First, we set up the hero/heroine with the person who is a perfect match and point out all his and her wonderful qualities. We're practically drooling as we write or read the descriptions. Then, we try to keep the duo apart.
Authors have lots of ideas about how to do this. If one character is working to maintain a business, the other is trying to buy or demolish it. Then there are the competitions.
Who has the best cookie recipe for the annual baking challenge, or the yearly wine tasting, or the cake decorating, or the killer marketing idea? Usually the winner attains recognition, promotion, a business partnership, or/and a cash prize which will save the day.
But there's something else we add to our books. It's a secret ingredient. Emotions. Not just any emotions either. We search deep within our characters' souls. Our stories speak of lingering losses and sorrows. These hurts make the hero or heroine mistrustful of others. They are the barriers and reasons why our couple are reluctant to admit the truth when they fall in love. And it is love, romance's secret ingredient, that gives them the courage face their biggest fears, heal, and unite. And readers celebrate!
So my friends, in 2021 I want to remind you to enjoy the simple gift of reading a romance novel. (You have so many to choose from on the Gems list.) May you immerse yourself in this genre's never-ending stories of happiness, joy, and love throughout the next three hundred and sixty-five days. Remember you are strong. You overcame 2020.
Happy 2021 to you and yours, Nora! Let's all pray it's better -- waaaaaay better -- than 2020~
ReplyDeleteThanks, Peggy. We hope. Happy New Year. Hope all is well with your family. (That includes Maple, of course.)
ReplyDeleteMany blessings to you, Nora!!!!
ReplyDeleteI used to dread writing the middle of the book, but now I know it’s the fun part where things get messy, confusing, and readers start rooting for them. Once I learned that, writing became easier and lots more fun. Happy New Year everyone
ReplyDeleteBonnie, I can vouch you do an excellent job of it.
ReplyDeleteYES!! That secret ingredient is ever so important to romance novels!!
ReplyDeleteI think we're lucky to recognize and enjoy it.
DeleteWhat a beautiful post.
ReplyDeleteThanks. Sometimes the simplest our the best. Congrats again on your box set.
ReplyDeleteLove that sentiment, Nora. "The simple gift of reading a romance."
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