Editor
Some people wanna fill the world with silly love stories
I discovered my passion for the love story as a child while listening to fairy tales that ended happily.
My education was refined later, studying Joseph Campbell. Now my taste for romance leans toward well crafted renditions of classic mythology. But these can be of any sub-genre, and not always inspired by traditional fairy tales or fables. They just need to evoke that childhood wonder.
What the experts say
The classic definition of the perfect romance novel assumes that it’s written by an author skilled in recognizing and selecting the more subtle elements of style. The novel itself must meet the only criterion that matters to romance readers: the emotionally satisfying feeling by story’s end, happily ever.
I don’t know about you, but I don’t consciously stop to wonder what secret ingredients the author used to create the recipe. I just plunge into her characters’ world, landing in it as if by magic–how I love to linger long after I’m done reading.
“You cranky critic you!”
I confess. Often after I’m done reading a spectacular romance and savored it awhile, I reread it–with a pad and pen close by. A habit I picked up from my brother and cousins who endlessly analyzed a film while we watched, arguing about how it was created. At least I enjoy my novels the first time around before stopping to dissect it.
Then sometimes I find a romance novel I know from the start is poorly written but somehow it still has me. That’s when I morph into the cranky critic–there doesn’t even have to be a full moon. What’s in the story to grab me even when I tell myself it’s not going on the shelf with my favorites? I just don’t get it. I give up analyzing it and find I’m enjoying the read.
Later, my heart’s still filled with that darn story and it hits me. I’ve just found my flash-in-the-pan new author! I wait for the next release: was this one a fluke or the real thing? I clear off a book shelf for another silly little love story* …
So many books!
We’re rich with authors who are not such literary geniuses. Some of their novels make the best seller list. Genius or not, if an author can touch us like that, they deserve top billing. If not on one of the lists, than in our hearts.
Now that we’ve met …
I’d like to hear from you anytime you have something to say!
Best,
Joule de Karat
___________
*Subtitle adapted from The Beatles’ Silly Little Love Songs lyrics:
(Thank you, Paul!)
