TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…MARIA COX

   

Thank You for following our Valentine's Blog Tour

as RWA/NYC members shared their thoughts on Romance. 

This is our last stop on the tour. We wish you Romance, always.

  

WHAT DOES ROMANCE MEAN TO ME?

By Maria Cox

To me romance means, a quiet dinner, stimulating conversation, flowers, and chocolates, but more importantly romance to me means ‘getting’ someone on a spiritual level.

Each of us has a particular emotional make-up; what amuses us, what saddens us, what arouses us. When you and your significant have similar hopes and dreams it’s an wonderful feeling. A profound connection with another human is certainly magical.♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Maria Cox is a PRO member of Romance Writers of America; she has also served as President of the Phoenix Writers Club. Maria has been writing stories since she was a young girl. She picked up her first romance novel when she was just eleven years old and has loved the genre ever since. Maria writes sensual romance, stories that showcase strong, sassy, and sexy characters. When not writing fiction, Maria works as a technical writer. She lives in Queens, New York. Please visit her NEW site www.mariacox.net and/or follow her on Twitter.

READ ROMANCE!

  

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…TROY STORM

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.   

Happy Reading and Happy Book Cover Friday!

HAPPINESS GOAL

By Troy Storm

Valentine’s day is an anomaly for romance writers. Though the ultimate goal of the day seems to be to impress your loved one with floral tributes and imported chocolates—or local, I’ll take those, no problem—we writers know true love is built on a host of elements that most of our characters have to work through in order to arrive at the chocolates and flowers stage. I think I’ve learned plenty along with my characters in journeying them toward their happiness goal. I do know there’s plenty more to learn. Happy Valentine’s Day to all us learning Romance Writers!♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Troy Storm’s latest, NO LOVE LOST, Book Six in the multi-authored Hearts of Braden series, has a host of learning multi-challenged romantics. Troy wishes them all a Happy Valentine’s Day, too!  Friend him on Facebook: www.facebook.com/troy.storm.184.

BOOK SUMMARY:  Ches is back in Braden in recovery from horrendous deployments in the Mid-east. Josey, even with his dark skin background, has become a respected businessman in the area and is the rock on which Ches is building his life. Undermining that rock, a well-meaning but clueless social worker storms into the picture to protect a client. Maddy clues herself in quickly, however, when she realizes she has awakened a whole new set of possibilities in the sexy trio that is anything but black and white.

Join us tomorrow for another 
Romance Writer on Romance! 
   

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…VANESSA PETERS

  

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.   

WHAT IS ROMANCE?

By Vanessa Peters

As a reader, writer, and lover of the romance genre, the question of “what is romance?” is ever-present in my world.  And while I am sure most people would expect my idea of romance to be something extra-large and grandiose, romance to me is far simpler.  Anyone would swoon at idea of the epic battles won, the dragons fought or mountains traversed all in the name of love.  But romance, everyday romance is more subtle.  It comes in the simple, unadorned gestures and moments between a couple.

               

I’ve had days, long exhausting days, where my 9-5 has worn me thin.  But still I come home and attempt to write only to find the words are just not there.   And after several hours of feeling frustrated and drained, I drag myself into bed.  It is there in the dark questioning my ability as a writer; my husband will reach out and hold my hand until I can fall to sleep.   He knows a pep talk is not what I need in that moment.  His hand in mine, late into the night comforts me like nothing else ever could.  It chases away the monster of my own self-doubt.   He does not fight dragons for me, but instead stands beside me giving me the strength to fight them instead.              

               

Romance is in the love that supports and connects.   It lives in those tiny pockets of time in which there are no words and yet in a single gesture, volumes are spoken.♥   

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Born and bred in Brooklyn, Vanessa Peters is a freelance artist and writer.   She writes stories of love and romance that reflect the people and the world around her. She is currently working on her first novel.  Visit her website/blog at www.vanessa-peters.com.

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Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE….LISE HORTON

  

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

Lise Horton finds The Romance in the Words.  

Here is her favorite Sonnet.

SONNET 29

by William Shakespeare

When, in disgrace with fortune and men’s eyes,

I all alone beweep my outcast state,

And trouble deaf heaven with my bootless cries,

And look upon myself and curse my fate,

Wishing me like to one more rich in hope,

Featured like him, like him with friends possessed,

Desiring this man’s art and that man’s scope,

With what I most enjoy contented least;

Yet in these thoughts myself almost despising,

Haply I think on thee, and then my state,

(Like to the lark at break of day arising

From sullen earth) sings hymns at heaven’s gate;

For thy sweet love remembered such wealth brings

That then I scorn to change my state with kings.♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Lise Horton was a graduate of Skidmore College with a degree in Education, and since has worked in jobs as various as diamond grader, theatre union assistant, bartender, and legal assistant in one of New York City’s premier entertainment law firms. In a previous creative incarnation, she was an award-winning cabaret singer in some of Manhattan’s iconic clubs. She attributes her depth of insight in romance fiction to that experience. “There is nothing quite as magical as seducing an audience with magnificent songs of love and longing; drawing them into the story and making their hearts yearn right along with yours”. Those years helped fuel her desire to create and share torrid stories of love and passion as a romance author. Her recent BDSM erotic romance release, HOLD TIGHT, has been nominated for a 2016 Golden Flogger Award. She will be presenting her craft workshop, “A Feast For the Senses: Effective Use Of Sensory Description In BDSM Fiction at the 2016 BDSM Writers Conference” http://bit.ly/1KWNT18 . Lise can be found her in all her naughty incarnations at www.lisehorton.com.  

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Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…JEAN JOACHIM

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

WHAT ROMANCE MEANS TO ME

By Jean Joachim

As a romance writer, I confront this question with every book I write. Romance can mean many things, but it isn’t just sex. Not to me. Romance is all about how much a person cares for you, wants to be with you, not just in the bedroom, but in the kitchen, in the living room and in life. It’s the small, thoughtful gestures that are the most romantic to me.

A hero is romantic when he remembers the heroine’s favorite color of roses, or a song she enjoys or picks up a book she’s been talking about buying. Listening is romantic, paying attention to what a woman is saying or what she values. An example from my life is when my husband bought tickets to the “So You Think You Can Dance” show when it hit New York City.

A man is more likely to fix something, buy something or do something, like wash dishes or laundry, to show his feelings for a woman, rather than spout romantic words. A woman can reciprocate romantic gestures for her man –and the bedroom is a perfect place to start.♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Jean Joachim is a best-selling romance fiction author, with books hitting the Amazon Top 100 list since 2012. She writes mostly contemporary romance, which includes sports romance and romantic suspense.

DANGEROUS LOVE LOST & FOUND, First Place winner in the 2015 Oklahoma Romance Writers of America, International Digital Award contest. THE RENOVATED HEART won Best Novel of the Year from Love Romances Café. LOVERS & LIARS was a RomCon finalist in 2013. And THE MARRIAGE LIST tied for third place as Best Contemporary Romance from the Gulf Coast RWA. TO LOVE OR NOT TO LOVE tied for second place in the 2014 New England Chapter of Romance Writers of America Reader’s Choice contest. She was chosen Author of the Year in 2012 by the New York City chapter of RWA.

Married and the mother of two sons, Jean lives in New York City. Early in the morning, you’ll find her at her computer, writing, with a cup of tea, her rescued pug, Homer, by her side and a secret stash of black licorice.

Jean has 30+ books, novellas and short stories published. Find them at http://www.jeanjoachimbooks.com. Sign up for her newsletter, on her website, and be eligible for her private paperback sales. 

Website: http://www.jeanjoachimbooks.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jean-Joachim-Author/221092234568929

Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Jean-C.-Joachim/e/B001ITRQKY/

Twitter:  @jeanjoachim

https://plus.google.com/u/0/111423777977819826895/

http://www.pinterest.com/jeanjoachim/

newsletter sign up - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jean-Joachim-Author/221092234568929?sk=app_100265896690345

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Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…MERCEDES CRUZ

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.   

Gardens, Self-Love and Appreciation: 

What Romance Means to Me

By Mercedes Cruz

Romance for me is as much a part of my life as water is. I need it to survive. It’s more than flowers, jewelry or chocolate and other gifts during certain holidays. Romance includes engaging in activities that you love. Activities such as reading, writing, watching my favorite T.V. show, spending time with my partner or girlfriends and even meditating.

One of my favorite things to do is go for long walks by myself in public gardens during the summer months. It’s my version of getting back to nature. I take pictures with and of the beautiful flowers and trees that nature provides. When I leave the garden I come home with a sense of renewed appreciation for all the living creatures in my life, yes including my wonderful partner.♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Mercedes Cruz writes Erotic Romance. She has published several short stories and is working on her first novel. Check out her blog for her weekly thoughts on Romance.

Blog: MercedesCruz.com

Twitter: @MercedesAuthor

Instagram: Mercedes_Author 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Mercededscruz

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Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…DEE DAVIS

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.  

ROMANTIC AT HEART

By Dee Davis

I’ve always been a romantic at heart.  I love a happy ending.  Cried when I didn’t get to see Cinderella’s wedding in Rogers and Hammerstein’s version.  Wanted more from Meg and Calvin in A WRINKLE IN TIME, and always loved a good romantic hero – like the one in Mary Stewart’s NINE COACHES WAITING.  I think we always have room in our lives for happily ever after and for the idea that no matter what the two of you might face, together you can conquer anything.♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Dee Davis published saw her first novel published in 2000. Since then she has won the Booksellers Best, Golden Leaf, Texas Gold and Prism awards, and nominated for the National Readers Choice Award, The Holt and two RT Reviewers Choice Awards.  Recently, she was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from RWA/NYC and also nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Awards for romantic suspense from Romantic Times.  In addition, she is a Hall of Fame member of NJRW and was awarded an Odyssey Medal from Hendrix College. To date, Dee has written 31 novels and novellas. Learn more about her at www.deedavis.com.

Join us tomorrow for another 

Romance Writer on Romance!

  

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…JOAN RAMIREZ

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

WHAT ROMANCE MEANS TO ME

By Joan Ramirez

My courtship was all about romance.  I met my husband after the 9/11 tragedy. Aware of my trauma, he did everything in his power to bring happiness back to my life. When we started dating, he told me that he was going to postpone renovations to his home so that he could court me. Every holiday and special occasion during our time together as friends, an engaged couple, and now, as man and wife, have been acknowledged with cards, small gifts, and quite often, flowers—usually yellow roses, my favorite.

By March of the following year, my job moved out of the city to permanent quarters in New Jersey. Now, I had to wait until after work to see my fella. As the loss of friends and the events of that horrid day sunk in, I found myself talking to Ivan more often. On his busiest day at work, he always made time for me.

As Christmas neared, my feelings for Ivan changed from that of a supportive ear to a potential soulmate. Every weekend spent together was an adventure—whether it was a walk through Central Park, a visit to a museum, a play, or just dinner, Ivan was a good conversationalist and listened. I was so proud to be in his company—a natty dresser-he did and still does make an impressive appearance.

As we approach the twelve-year mark in our marriage, I can say that my husband is still romantic. While our outings aren’t as elaborate as our first New Year’s eve at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City, we still have fun together, and he’ll always be my one and only.♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Joan Ramirez has published three nonfiction books -- Jamie is Autistic (print and Kindle), Go for it Leadership Handbook for All students (audio), and Let it Go, Let it Flow Leadership (print). She has also published many short story mystery/suspense stories online as well as being a published photographer and freelance, award-winning journalist. By day, she's a part-time elementary teacher and just finished her first romance and is now working on a romantic suspense.

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Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…DEBORAH BLUMENTHAL

  

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.  

Happy Reading and Happy Book Cover Friday!

UNEXPECTED THINGS

By Deborah Blumenthal

Romance?  Here’s what it isn’t, at least for me.  A dozen roses on Valentine’s Day.  The clichéd five pound box of Godiva chocolates. 

No, it’s the unexpected things.  When something smashed into my wonderful umbrella stand from Deruta, Italy one day, I thought I’d have to part with it.  Instead, my husband painstakingly repaired it, gluing it back together, piece-by-piece.  I loved him for that.  Now that’s romantic!♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Deborah Blumenthal is an award-winning journalist and nutritionist who now divides her time between writing children's books and adult novels. She has been a regular contributor to The New York Times (including four years as the Sunday New York Times Magazine beauty columnist), and a home design columnist for Long Island Newsday. Her health, fitness, beauty, travel, and feature stories have appeared widely in many other newspapers and national magazines including New York’s Daily News, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Woman's Day, Family Circle, Self, and Vogue. Blumenthal lives in New York City.  Visit her at www.deborahblumenthal.com

SOMEONE ELSE'S LOVE LETTER, 

her new romance novel, out March 1st. 

HURRICANE KISS,

her new YA novel, out May 1st.

BOOK SUMMARY:  After Jillian Shayne, fitness editor of Savvy Woman, accidentally spills a cosmopolitan into the lap of a party crasher at her company’s annual Christmas party, nothing in her life will be the same. Connor McCain seems to lack an impressive resume, but he makes up for it in sexual heat. Only the more she gets to know Connor, the more mysterious he becomes. When circumstances in their relationship take a startling turn, Jillian decides it’s time to leave Connor and her old life behind. 

The only question is how to start over? 

Reminiscing on how her electrifying romance with Connor began, Jillian is determined to bring romance to couples all over Manhattan. Along with her best friend Tara, a high-powered real estate agent, they introduce their enticing business, “Romance in a Box” on Valentine’s Day, bringing with it hard won success for Jillian and some romantic surprises of her own along the way.

Join us tomorrow for another 

Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…MICHELLE ALERTE

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.   

ROMANCE IS IN THE LITTLE THINGS

By Michelle Alerte

Who doesn’t love, love! For me, the best part is watching the effect it has one a person. The way in which someone grows to become a better version of themselves while experiencing the light of someone’s affection. And what is romance? Romance, is in the little things. Romance flourishes when your love takes the time to craft a moment that is special just for you. Something that says, “I see you and I get you.”

In my romance, A PROMISE WORTH MAKING, Rachelle isn't someone who goes with the flow. Like at all. So when she meets Nicolas, a hero willing to wear his heart on his sleeve, no part of her is willing to let him love her. But, through the little moments, the small details, Nicolas is able to help her blossom. Watching Rachelle moves from closed and guarded to warm and open made me love her even more. ♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Ever since stumbling upon my first romance while searching for God knows what in my mother's closet I’ve been in love with hero’s, heroines, and happy ever afters. I was immediately pulled in by the sexy man and the fainting waif of a heroine on the cover. When not working as a contributing author for several magazines and blogs, I'm usually at museums, plays, or being active in the great outdoors –- when the New York weather allows for it. I'd love to hear from each and every one of you. Find me on Facebook, My Author Website, or Twitter.

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Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…MICHAEL J. MOLLOY

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.   

THE TRUE MEASURE OF ROMANCE

By Michael J. Molloy

Whether you’re involved with someone for 30 days or 30 years, the true measure of romance is how well you diversify and alter routines with your significant other. Speaking from the male perspective, it’s important to spring surprises on your loved one to help keep that flame flickering. For instance, last June I stunned Connie when I told her I had gotten us two second row orchestra seats for a Saturday evening performance of “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” in honor of our 15^th anniversary last October. You should have seen the look on her face. But do you know what? I was more thrilled than she was when I told her the news. But that’s just it. Oh sure, we all get into routines with our spouses or girl/boyfriends, but the element of spontaneity is what helps keep the juices flowing and the romance alive!♥

Michael and colleague
at RWA writers conference.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  A big fan of authors Stephen King, Tom Clancy and Frederick Forysth, I didn’t get the writing bug until about 15 years ago. I was influenced greatly by an English teacher I had during my years at Stuyvesant High School. Perhaps you may have heard of him – the late Frank McCourt (ANGELA'S ASHES). I read all of Mr. McCourt’s books as I reminisced about my days at the old building on East 15^th Street four decades ago. Yes, he truly inspired me to grab a pen and pad.

            I have two traditionally published books to my credit, both through Gypsy Shadow Publishing. The first is a contemporary romance novel entitled THE DIAMOND MAN. The second, a suspense novel that was released just three months ago, is named SADISTIC PATTER. I am currently working on my next contemporary romance novel entitled SWEET GREETINGS FROM CARTHAGE, based on a true story. I have also written a screenplay, “Simon Rockets”, which got as far as talks with Hollywood producer Beaux Carson (“The Tempest”).

            A graduate of St. John’s University, I am a father of three and currently live in Brooklyn. I have a website (www.molloyauthor.com), which I have posted several stories and blogs.  You can also visit my Facebook Author Page (www.facebook.com/molloyauthor) and follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/AuthorMJM).

Join us tomorrow for another Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…MARISA D’VARI

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

ROMANCE FUN

By Marisa D'Vari

Romance is sharing only fun, positive thoughts during meals and also, the “three compliment a day” rule.♥ 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Marisa D’Vari is a storyteller and can be found at http://www.marisadvari.com

Join us tomorrow for another Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…DEL CARMEN

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.   

LOVE IN DARING RED

By Del Carmen

Rush, rush, rush. Maybe it’s living in New York, maybe it’s the wild life style – I wish! Whatever the excuse, it seems that I never remember to celebrate “Romance” until Cupid arrives with bow in hand. Then after a little arrow pointing, I am reminded that love means more than sex and can be as simple as holding hands. Thanks, Cupid. Now, I’m off to celebrate smelling of Chanel No. 5 with painted lips in Daring Red.♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Del Carmen enjoys writing erotica that is sensual and satisfying. Her stories have been published by Cleis Press, Ravenous Romance and Riverdale Avenue Books; they have also appeared in Star, Penthouse and Cosmopolitan for Latinas magazines. Visit Del Carmen at www.mydelcarmen.com and follow her on Twitter @mydelcarmen.

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Romance Writer on Romance!

TOUR: ROMANCE WRITERS ON ROMANCE…THEA DEVINE

Let’s talk about love! RWA/NYC members share their thoughts on romance in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

We begin our blog tour with a real story. Thanks to Thea for sharing her love story and a Happy Valentine Birthday to her husband John.

HOW I KNOW HE LOVES ME

By Thea Devine

I watched the other day as a male cardinal flew into our bird feeder, pecked at the seed and then flew up to the branch above where his female waited, and gave it to her.

That is a hero...He put his loved one first.

Does your hero put his loved one first -- especially when he hasn't confessed yet she's his loved one?  

Does he always tell her what she doesn't want to know (always a sure sign)?

Is he a guy who takes out the garbage without being asked, cleans the cat box, does his share of the cooking, shovels the snowed-up path to make it easier for you, makes sure you don't trip on the curb you didn't see, copies the NY Times crossword puzzle for you every Monday and Tuesday?

Would he do the two a.m. newborn feedings? Carry your colicky baby around for hours?   Fix things like small electricals and minor plumbing? Build bookcases for your ever expanding library and not complain?

Is he a problem solver? A man of few words, a man of action? Would he search high and low for a way to repair an almost irreparably storm damaged canoe just because you love it?

Does he have your back? Has he seen you at your worst -- and still loves you? Is he your best friend?

Does he listen?

Does he give you space to create?

These are all the traits of my hero, and I confess, there's a little bit of him in every male protagonist I write (don't tell). And he does all those small, loving things and more (except the bird part) that are much more meaningful (to me) than larger, grander gestures.

And so, dear reader, I married him -- nearly 50 years ago, and all this time later, he is still my love and my hero. His birthday is Valentine's Day, so apt, and this is my Valentine's card to my beloved John. ♥

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Thea Devine's books defined erotic historical romance.   She's the author of twenty-seven novels and a dozen novellas.  She was honored by RT as a Romance Pioneer, and voted this year's RWA/NYC Lifetime Achievement award.  Visit her at www.theadevine.com.

Join us tomorrow for another Romance Writer on Romance!

BOOK COVER FRIDAY! FORBIDDEN BY MARIA COX

WELCOME TO BOOK COVER FRIDAYS!

Every week we bring you an exciting hot book cover from 

one of New York's Leading Romance Authors.

FORBIDDEN

by Maria Cox
mariacox.net

BOOK SUMMARY:  A slum dog, a mob princess, a one-night stand. Their union just became a matter of life and death.

As a poor black kid growing up in Brownsville, Jaden Smith learns to adapt and survive. At twenty-one years of age he’s lucky to be alive and sober. Now with a degree in hand Jaden intends to make it out of Brooklyn’s public housing by whatever means necessary. The daughter of a powerful mob boss Becca Sorrentini has the world at her feet everything except the most basic of human rights: freedom. A slave to her father’s traditional ways Becca is desperate for a way out of the Sorrentini family life. A one-night stand with a handsome acquaintance may just lead Becca to redemption.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Maria Cox is a PRO member of Romance Writers of America (RWA) and a member of RWA/NYC. She is also is the past President of the Phoenix Writers Club.  Visit her at www.mariacox.net.

HAPPY READING.  HAPPY FRIDAY.

EMBRACING MY CRAZY BY LAQUETTE

My tagline, “Embracing my crazy…one character at a time,” essentially sums up how I approach writing and the process of writing.  I know there are plenty of manuals on writing and writing style that provide you with hard, fast, and plentiful rules about what you can never do as a writer, about what elements have to be present in your writing in order for it to fit into a genre or subgenre.  Honestly, there are even rules and guides about what a hero/heroine must/mustn’t do in order for your story to be a “real romance.” 

In my opinion, that’s the largest load of garbage that’s ever been spoon-fed to authors.  Yes, there are some things that should remain consistent in writing.  Formatting, grammar, etc. are elements that are definitely needed to help make sense of the words we string together.  However, even those truths which we hold steadfast can sometimes be bent in order to further our creativity.  This is exactly where embracing your crazy comes in.  Doing what feels intuitive versus doing what is considered to be the correct method of doing something can ultimately set your muse free and yield you a new and refreshing piece of writing.

For instance, there is this unspoken rule that heroines need to be rescued.  After all, the entire purpose of a romance is to create a fictional situation where the heroine is incomplete until her hero comes on the scene to point out her flaws and fix them for her (just in case you didn’t know, that was sarcasm).  As silly as that notion sounds many romance novels do depict that exact theme.  Some people may like that kind of thing.  As for me, I’m a chick from Brooklyn who was raised to save her own day, so I write women that reflect a more modernized ideal of femininity.  My heroines are smart, able, and powerful.  Oftentimes they’re just as flawed and surly as my heroes are, and they always give as much hell as they get from their male counterparts.  My heroines make things happen and most importantly, they offer partnership to their heroes.  They fight and love equally in the boardroom and the bedroom. 

That’s just one of the ways I’ve found to bend if not break the rules.  Come back next month to see what other antics I go through just to embrace my particular brand of crazy.♥

2015 Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Award Finalist in Erotic Romance, 2015 Swirl Awards Finalist in Romantic Suspense, bestselling erotic romance author, LaQuette, is a native of Brooklyn, New York.  She spends her time catering to her three distinct personalities: Wife, Mother, and Educator.  LaQuette loves hearing from readers and discussing the crazy characters that are running around in her head causing so much trouble. Contact her on Facebook, Twitter, @LaQuetteLikes, her website, www.NovelsbyLaQuette.com,

Amazon, her Facebook group, LaQuette's Lounge, 

and via email at NovelsbyLaQuette@gmail.com.