What makes a Romance?

Romance is defined as: 1. Characters involved in events in time or place. 2. To entertain romantic thoughts or ideas. 3. To carry on a love affair.

Sexual: symbolizing or implying desires or activity to someone.
Tension: the act of stretching or the condition of being stretched.

When writing Romance there are two key elements to focus on. Create a central theme for love and an emotional but happy ever after ending.

The major element I want to talk about is Sexual Tension. There must be a solid physical attraction between the hero and heroine. Having inner feelings, builds believable characters. Conflict enhances a push-pull emotional drive. Chemistry between the couple could be a racing heartbeat, butterfly like sensation within their stomachs or a nervousness that can’t be explained.

Sexual tension could merely begin with a look, nod or smile. The hero and heroine are physically attracted from the start.

Our Hero is in awe of her appearance. The swaying of her hips in a short mini skirt. Her fully developed breasts gently pushing against a tight see through blouse. Shinny black shoulder length hair swaying with each step she takes.

The Heroine notices his tight cowboy shirt barely hiding his muscular chest. A powerful masculine voice echoes in the moonlit night. The way his body moves in his tight blue jeans.

Characters are touched by heat of each other’s breath. Passion deepens with a stimulating desire for each other. A bold kiss or two moves tension to a deeper level of intimacy. One or both find they can’t stop thinking about each other. Each time they meet brings their desire for a longing fulfillment to take place. A kiss may last longer with a warming embrace.

Powerful sexual tension comes from incorporating elements such as the kind of weather. The pitter patter of rain drops upon a side walk. Rustling sounds of leaves while walking in an overgrown forest. Sounds of loud bolts of thunder coming from the sky, displaying silhouettes of brightness, in the midst of darkness.

Utilize your surroundings if your characters are indoors. An open window causes a gentle breeze moving a curtain swaying back and forth. A Grandfather clock ticks to the sounds of each breath they take. A semi dark room shows the illumination of a glowing candle.

You don’t have to have a love scene. You want sizzle, spark and an everlasting bond between the couple. Sexual tension is the key to success. Sensual romances are best when the sexual tension level is high. Each chapter builds more anticipation for the reader. Creating a rhythm of sexuality between your characters. Just remember their relationship enriches their obstacles and finds their true love. They’ve found their soul mate.

My suggestion is to write your story. When it is finished, polished and ready for submission, you can choose what sub-genre will fit and appeal to your publisher.
Contemporary Romance
Historical Romance
Regency Historical Romance
Inspirational Romance
Paranormal Romance
Romantic Suspense
Erotic Romance

Happy Valentine’s Day!!
-Sharon.