How to Write a Memorable Romance Scene

by Michelle Griep, @MichelleGriep

Nobody wants to admit to reading romance novels. Those are for the trashy sort, the kind that hang out in laundromats, the losers with awkward social skills who don't have a hope of ever snagging their own happily-ever-after. Right?

Wrong-o bucko.

Besides that statement being politically incorrect and highly intolerant, it's also a huge misconception. In fact, romance novels are and have been some the hottest selling books flying off the shelves. So rest at ease if one of your guilty pleasures is snuggling up with a romantic tale. In fact, I just wrote a kissy-faced scene today and had to stop and think about the actual nuts and bolts of romance. And since I did all that brain work, thought I'd share . . .

Go for the ooh-la-la-la thrill of it all—but keep a leash on all that passion.

Let's get this one out of the way first, shall we? When people think romance, they think smoochy-smoochy-touchy-feely, all twangy in the tummy and fireworks sizzling along every nerve. Of course should include such descriptions if you want to reflect human beings, not robots, but don’t overdo it, especially if you’re writing for the inspirational market. Sprinkle in physical sensations like a pinch of salt, flavoring the scene with intimate vibes without crossing the line into explicit mind images.

The feeling of being cherished/wanted is mandatory.

A really romantic scene plays on the deep need everyone has: that of being desired for who they are, not just for what they look like or what they do. True romance is being loved even for your warts and toenail fungus. Yeah, that's a tough kind of love to exhibit—but it's also a primal need in all of us.

There must be a hope of a secure future with this person.

Romance isn't just about a one night stand. It's about feeling secure, a peace and a hope of a bright new dawn. There's a reason for the phrase happily ever after. It makes our hearts grab some pompoms and cheer.

Make use of an outer release for inner feelings that have been building.

Think of this as the Christmas morning of all scenes. The culmination of what the reader's been waiting for. The tension that's been building inside the characters must be finally released in a tangible way. Your characters, the reader, and even you will heave a contented sigh.

Next time you're crafting a romantic scene, make sure to include all four of these elements. It will connect with the reader on a deeper level than just a simple kiss. It will connect with their heart.

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How to Write a Memorable Romance Scene by @MichelleGriep on @NovelRocket #writing http://bit.ly/2yc5GNE

4 Elements to include when you're crafting a romantic scene by @MichelleGriep on @NovelRocket #writing http://bit.ly/2yc5GNE

Romance is about feeling a peace and a hope of a bright new dawn. @MichelleGriep on @NovelRocket #writing http://bit.ly/2yc5GNE

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12 Days at Bleakly Manor

Imprisoned unjustly, BENJAMIN LANE wants nothing more than freedom and a second chance to claim the woman he loves—but how can CLARA CHAPMAN possibly believe in the man who stole her family’s fortune and abandoned her at the altar? Brought together under mysterious circumstances for the Twelve Days of Christmas, Clara and Ben discover that what they've been striving for isn't what ultimately matters . . . and what matters most is love.

Author Michelle Griep

Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the author of historical romances: The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, Undercurrent andGallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. If you’d like to keep up with her escapades, find her at www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest.the next level.