October 25, 2006
Story Essentials – Continued
Recapping as we work our way down the romance editor’s wish list, so far we have:
An opening hook
An appealing, human heroine
A hero to fall in love with. He must be human, appealing and honorable
An original story line.
Dialogue that sings
Emotional roll coaster (highs and lows)
Sensuality that steams up the windows
A pace that keeps the reader hooked
A setting that feels real but is transparent
An happy ever after that leaves you with an aah
The happy ending is a romance requirement. It is apparent to any one who reads more than couple. A satisfactory resolution is the most sacred of all of the reader’s expectations.
So what is the secret behind the truly satisfying ending? Doubt.
Genuine worry that the conflict between the hero and heroine is unbridgeable makes the final resolution more fearfully anticipated, therefore much more poignant and more cherished. Of course, the reader must be invested in your characters for them to fuss about their resolution or to exult in the final dissolution of the inner conflict.
A lonely woman finds passion with a dominant much younger lover, forcing a choice between love and loyalty 
The Enyo Chronicles includes both Dalia's Choice and Joon's Tempation. 
Three different stories, three dangerous men, and three women who deserve them 
One dangerous warrior woman plus two rogue demon males equals a love to threaten an empire. 
Getting paid to watch Eduardo is Desiree’s dream assignment, but when he reaches out to her, crossing the line, everything changes.
Deep in her secret heart, she lusts for a sexy pirate who’d be her master and commander in the bedroom. But, this man may be too dangerous
One woman, two men, three wounded hearts--though already mated their love is still forbidden.
A reluctant reporter and a lone wolf undercover cop work to catch an extortionist, finding love requires the most dangerous risk of all. 
Street-smart cop plays princess to catch deadly terrorists. Now,the only man she trusts is the one she can't resist.
Along with the arrival of Sam’s nemesis comes Karina, the one woman who can heal his wounded soul. What he doesn’t know may kill him. Because, the love of his life is his worst nightmare--his enemy’s daughter. 