Romantic Chemistry - Romance Writers Weekly - #lovechatwrite

​This week’s topic is a gut check for me. It’s one of those things that, as a reader, you know when you know. As an author, it can feel like sand slipping through your fingers.

How Do You Create Chemistry Between Characters?

Chemistry starts with conflict. Both characters want something. If it is the same something, they are racing for it. If it is a different something, then achieving their goals will divide them. The something can be tangible, like getting a promotion at work, or intangible, such as restoring self-confidence.

This initial spark should soon lead to teamwork, followed by sacrifice. This holds true for all stories, not just enemies to lovers. At some point the characters need to realize that the other person is deserving of attention and respect. Moving forward from that, they need to recognize that the other person has become vital to their own self-esteem. That loving the other makes themselves a better person. And if that means making difficult choices, then they will decide in favour of the other, not themselves.

Chemistry can’t just be built on “ooh, he’s handsome.” It has to have a foundation on a personal, intimate level that goes above physical attractiveness.

Like I said, I know it when I read it. But writing it is hard.

Now hop over to Jill Haymaker to read how she ignites the chemistry!

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AFTER WORDS

A mysterious diary ignites a shared quest…and an unexpected romance.

In this romance, the chemistry builds from work colleagues to friends to lovers. I love to write slow-burns, where the heat grows slowly and naturally. After Words is a great example of this, as Leeza and Gavin move along their relationship path.

Here's what other readers are saying:

"Not your usual romance, it’s even better!"
"This is a lovely, page-turning story in every way, and I can't recommend it enough."
"A slow burn had me eagerly flipping pages!"

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COLORADO WINTER MOON

They meet under the glow of a Colorado winter moon. Can the passion that flares between them unite two people who have given up on love? Will the challenges of family and distance, drive them apart or pull them closer together?

Available on Amazon