Romance Authors’ Seven Secrets
By
Collette Cameron
Today’s post is a result of this romance author’s first year as a published author, and the many brilliant questions and observations I’ve had directed my way.
So, I thought I’d reveal some trade secrets.
Experiences: Romance writers only write about things we have actually experienced ourselves.
Oh, for heaven’s sake, I’m not serious, although I’ve been asked that very question. That’s when a deadpan expression and a witty response is a must.
“Why, yes, I have been chased by a crazed rapist who was after my fortune,” or “Of course I know how to throw a dagger with deadly accuracy. Want to see? Hold perfectly still.”
How in the world could we possibly experience some of the stuff we write?
We make things up: Yep, names, places, words, events, pretty much anything we want.
We get to do that, and we don’t have to explain the stuff is fictional.
The whole story is made up, and even though I write historicals and try to be as historically accurate as possible, I have a wicked sense of humor. Hence a cook named Mrs. Plumperbuns and an intrusive gossip named Lady Clutterbuck might make an appearance or two in my books. Oh, and I named an estate Cadbury Park after my favorite chocolate.
Yep, I really did.
Inspiration: I will use what you say in my books.
I have been known to stop in mid-sentence to jot down quotes or a name I heard that inspired me.
I’ll also make you a villain if you tick me off, and you’ll have all kinds of nasty vices. Plus, I’ll make you eat disgusting food and don’t be surprised if rather unpleasant things happen to you.
Nothing is new: Of course my stories are entirely unique and original. You’ve never read anything that even remotely resembles them.
Okay, that’s a blatant lie.
Yes, I try to add original elements, but the whole idea of writing a romance is happily-ever-after. There are some ups and downs, bumps and turns, but in the end, everyone, including the reader, knows the ultimate outcome.
Editing: I’m a teacher as well as an author so naturally, everything I submit to my publisher is flawless. *Snort!*
Don’t believe a word of that. The truth is, no matter how many times I go over a manuscript, I still find boo boos. And I haven’t read a single romance novel I didn’t find a few in too.
Hopefully, my stories are so vivid and compelling you don’t notice the editing oversights and if you do, you’re kind about telling me.
We love every aspect of being an author: I wish you could see me guffawing here. Sooo not true.
Yes, we love writing, creating, weaving words into magical sentences that mesmerize, but being an author isn’t all about writing the story.
Oh dear. That was wordy, purple prose.
I do enjoy research and love connecting with other authors and readers, but the whole promotion and marketing bit.
Bleck.
Bleck.
Yes, we are passionate about writing; some might call it obsessed, but that’s a whole other post. But the truth is, writing is hard, hard work.
I wouldn’t trade it for anything though!
My new release, The Earl’s Enticement, was the most difficult book for me to write so far. Not only was it the longest, I had to carefully coordinate the details with the first book where Adaira and Roark were introduced.
My new release, The Earl’s Enticement, was the most difficult book for me to write so far. Not only was it the longest, I had to carefully coordinate the details with the first book where Adaira and Roark were introduced.
Anybody have anything to add? I’m betting you do. I’d love to know.
