The romance genre is all about character. Is the heroine relatable? Does the reader care about the protagonist? A teen reader may not empathize with a heroine’s parenting struggles just as a mature reader might have little patience with an ingénue deep in the throes of first love. ... Read More about The Ages and Stages of a Romance Heroine
The Ages and Stages of a Romance Heroine
Treasure Hunting Heroines
I enjoy treasure hunting movies, but I prefer watching a potential romantic couple rather than a lone treasure hunter going after the prize. Especially if the hero is the daredevil and the heroine is the scholar. Why? It’s every nerdy book girl’s fantasy to solve the puzzle and have the adventure of a lifetime while dazzling the world as she wins it all. ... Read More about Treasure Hunting Heroines
By the Numbers: Romance is Very White and Very British
Go to the romance section of a bookstore and browse the shelves. How many romance novels show white couples on the cover? Chances are, all of them. ... Read More about By the Numbers: Romance is Very White and Very British
Which Heroine Are You?
I have read Harlequin Presents for years and I like more than one type of heroine. I eagerly follow the journeys of innocent virgins and seductive mistresses. I sympathize with the heroines who sacrifice everything to achieve their dreams and I cheer on the ones who bring the Alpha males to their knees. I like reading about the ordinary women I recognize from my world and the exotic princesses from faraway lands. ... Read More about Which Heroine Are You?
Hero & Heroine Archetypes: The Bad Boy
The Bad Boy is a classic with his devil-may-care attitude, leather jacket (usually) and street smarts. He’s charismatic and rebellious, keeping his passions smoldering just below the surface. He’s been knocked down one too many times to wear his heart on his sleeve. ... Read More about Hero & Heroine Archetypes: The Bad Boy