How to Write a Romance Novel – Celeste Bradley
Advice for Writers – Romantic Tension, Love Scenes, Character & Plot
Jul 6, 2009
Celeste Bradley writes Regency romances, with one novella and thirteen romance novels to her credit. Her "Heiress Brides" trilogy includes Desperately Seeking a Duke, The Duke Next Door, and Duke Most Wanted. Her newest romantic fiction, Devil in My Bed, will be released in August, 2009.
Do You Start With a Character or a Plot? Why?
I start with an idea or a premise. Sometimes it's only a theme. My latest trilogy started because I was pondering fatherhood. I haven't the faintest idea why it happens as it happens. Every book is a completely different creative act. Ideas aren't the hard part anyway. The hard part is placing ass in chair for four hundred and fifty pages!
How Do You Determine How Much Detail to Include in a Love Scene?
I don't limit anything. I go as far as the moment takes me. It's a lot easier to dial it back than it is to build it up. Later, when I reread it, I might chicken out if it makes me cringe. Or I might not. Scary but interesting.
How Do You Keep Romantic Tension High Through the Entire Novel?
The trick to real drama is for the characters to never realize what they had until they've lost it. Then I give it back to them!
Other Advice on Romantic Tension and Love Scenes?
Throw out the rule book and listen to the characters. Some people are going to give in to temptation a lot sooner than others. Listen to the plot as well. I can't stand stories where people stop to have sex when they should be running for their lives or trying to save a child.
Describe the Challenges of Writing Romantic Fiction
Reader expectation is very, very high. The genre has certain requirements that must be fulfilled. I'm not talking formula, but levels of sensuality, intelligence, plot and most of all characterization. Cardboard cutouts don't have convincing relationships. Historical authors like myself also contend with very informed readers. Mistakes will be noticed and you will be contacted by incredibly smug emails! Humbly apologize and promise to do better in the future.
Any Other Advice for Aspiring Romance Writers?
Don't write it if you don't read it and respect it. Romantic fiction is not a fast track to getting published. It's not easy and it's not to be scorned. I consider it my mission in life to provide relief, laughter and escape to extraordinarily hardworking women who carry more than their share of the world. Fiction by women, for women. Men can read it, too, if they wish. It would probably do them some good!
For more from Celeste Bradley and other romance writers, read Romance Writers Speak.
 |
 |
