You Wrote a Killer Love Story…But Did You Romance the Reader? – WRITERS HELPING WRITERS®

Bringing two people together, especially ones who may be jaded, initially mistrustful, and worried about being hurt by love again, must be handled with care to feel credible. They should be individuals focused on their own realities and goals, and yet their uniqueness, personality, values, and strengths are a perfect fit for the other person, so much so that fighting it is futile.

Writers of romance are obviously very focused on creating the perfect chemistry between the protagonist and love interest, but there’s a third person they also need to think about as they craft this complex tapestry of love: the reader.

If the reader doesn’t fall in love with the couple, the story flops, so they too need to be wooed. This can be tricky because each reader comes to the story with specific beliefs, needs, and ideas of what makes a good partner. Somehow, we need to make them see these two are perfect for each other, and the love interest is worthy of the protagonist.

You Wrote a Killer Love Story…But Did You Romance the Reader? – WRITERS HELPING WRITERS®