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Original Posting: Fri, 6 May 1994 18:35:02 JST
[have not finished reading the book, but... thought I'd mention it while the marshmellows are crisping...]
One bit from the book that might help our discussions:
Classification of Romance Novels
1. Category Romances
As near as I can tell, the minimum necessary for a romance is a woman, a man, and their relationship. Seems as though that leaves a lot of possibilities for writers. Also seems almost the essence of "character-driven" writing - take one man, one woman, and rub together until smouldering?
[have not finished reading the book, but... thought I'd mention it while the marshmellows are crisping...]
How To Write A Romance And Get It PublishedAs I said, I'm still reading this one.
Kathryn Falk
Signet 1990
ISBN 0-451-16531-4
$5.99
One bit from the book that might help our discussions:
Classification of Romance Novels
1. Category Romances
"These follow the 'romance formula,' a set of rules also known as the 'Cinderella legend.'" [seems to be the formula stuff we've seen some references to.]2. Historical Romances
"Good storytelling is the main requirement, providing adventure, excitement, and titillation."3. Contemporary Romances
"The historical romance rules (in brief): accurate historical research, erotic sex scenes, one woman/one man or one woman/many men relationships, and usually a happy ending."
"These are in a contemporary setting with modern and realistic characters. The romance rules may or may not be applied. Sentimentality is evoked; readers may shed a tear. The emphasis is on the woman's emotional and romantic experiences."4. Regency Romances
"Short and medium-length novels of manners; witty, light. ... They capture the flavor of a Jane Austen novel, and emphasize the repartee between the hero and the heroine, rather than a sexual relationship."5. Romantic Suspense/Gothic
"A romantic suspense novel is always a mystery, full of action, intertwined with romance, and the background is contemporary."6. Science Fiction and Fantasy
Mentioned setting as an exciting possibility for a romance ...The rest of the book consists of lots of little articles and pieces which I am slowly working my way through.
As near as I can tell, the minimum necessary for a romance is a woman, a man, and their relationship. Seems as though that leaves a lot of possibilities for writers. Also seems almost the essence of "character-driven" writing - take one man, one woman, and rub together until smouldering?