FLAWS AND ALL

By Kate McMurray

The best heroes are the ones who aren’t perfect.

We generally demand a lot from our heroes. We want them to be handsome and brave and smart and kind and everything good that we aspire to be ourselves. But all that awesomeness has a way of rendering the hero superhuman. And, sure, if I were trapped on the roof of a burning building, I would totally want Superman to come rescue me. But as far as a romantic hero goes? Superman is so perfect he’s kind of boring.

Superman’s creators knew he was too perfect, that there was nothing remotely interesting about a hero who would always triumph. There’s no tension in the story if it’s a foregone conclusion that Superman will win. That’s why they introduced kryptonite, something to which the Man of Steel was not impervious. In the real world, each hero has his own kryptonite, a flaw or limitation that keeps him from being perfect, keeps him from getting what he wants And it’s that flaw that makes him all the more interesting.

Let’s take sports heroes, for example. Athletes are often described as heroic: they are in peak physical condition, they have drive enough to be the best at what they do, and the tinkly piano of the personal profiles during the Olympics coverage tells us that they also have dramatic back stories and plenty of heart. And yet basketball player Charles Barkley famously said he wasn’t a role model. Indeed, as often as our sports heroes lift our hearts, they also let us down, be it by breaking down at a crucial moment, by flubbing a play that loses the game, by being caught using performance-enhancing drugs. Athletes are not superhuman, after all, and they succumb to the same pressures the rest of us do: each man struggles with how to keep on top, how to win the race, how to keep the fans on his side. And so he makes hard decisions that we think badly of as we watch from the safety of our sofas, but that a lot of anguish went into making.

In a romance novel, I like a flawed hero. I like to see a man who has the potential to excel but has something keeping him back that he has to overcome. That makes him complicated and interesting, it means he has to make tough choices and figure out problems and triumph over what is holding him back. That makes him human, in other words.♥



Kate McMurray is the author of five novels and a half dozen stories. Her latest, OUT IN THE FIELD, is a romance between two Major League Baseball players. When she’s not writing, Kate is a nonfiction editor. Also, she is crafty (mostly knitting and sewing, but she also wields power tools), she plays the violin, and she dabbles in various other pursuits. She’s maybe a tiny bit obsessed with baseball. She lives in Brooklyn, NY. Visit her at http://www.katemcmurray.com.



EDITOR'S NOTE:   Here ends RWA/NYC's Heroes Blog Tour for the month of June. If you've missed any hero, please feel free to go back and visit with each one. They are all worth it! As always, Read Romance.
  
  

MY HEROES HAVE ALWAYS BEEN COWBOYS

By C.H. Admirand



"My heroes have always been cowboys…."  I’ve always loved the way Willie Nelson sang that song and to some extent, it has been true in my life. Growing up I used to love watching silver screen legends: John Wayne and Gary Cooper and my TV faves: Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. While my tastes have changed over the years, an intrinsic part of the heroes I write about have that core-deep sense of right and wrong that I admired so much in those Saturday morning cowboy heroes.

But life is not always cut and dried, and good does not necessarily always triumph over evil—well at least we don’t always see it happening, but I haven’t lost faith that somewhere down the line if evil wins, eventually… good will triumph.

My heroes have to have flaws—no one in real life is perfect all the time—therefore, I need to give my heroes something that will draw readers to them and have readers rooting for them. The heroes I write about have to work hard to attain their goals…earning the right to a happily-ever-after…even if they don’t realize that it is what they want at the time.

My husband has been my hero for more than half my life…and as with all heroes, he has his flaws, but his core-deep sense of right and wrong, his honesty and integrity always shine through—that and his killer broad shoulders and working man’s hands—I’m such a sucker for broad shoulders and strong, callused hands.

In JESSE, the third book in my hot cowboy series for Sourcebooks—the Secret Life of Cowboys—it takes the love of a good woman…and her tiny pink cowgirl three-year-old to show him that love doesn’t always happen when you want it to…but when it’s meant to.

Here’s the link to read the blurb and an excerpt: http://chadmirand.com/books/the-secret-life-of-cowboys/jesse

I love to hear from readers, please stop by and check out the latest news, recipes and pics of my darling grandbaby Jack and our garden!♥

C.H. Admirand is an award-winning, multi-published author, with a dozen novels and eight short stories to her credit.  Her books are available in hardcover, e-book, trade paperback, magazine, and audio.  JESSE is part of her The Secret Life of Cowboys series.  Visit her at http://www.chadmirand.com/.

ONE LAST HERO.  TOMORROW:  Stop by and "meet" Kate McMurray's hero.
 

MEET DENBURYLICIOUS

By Leanna Renee Hieber

Jonathon Whitby, Lord Denbury, is the hero of the Magic Most Foul saga, set in 1880 New York City.

Black haired, tall, lean and possessed of ice-blue eyes that will pierce even the most steeled of hearts, Denbury is a striking young Englishman. Eighteen years old and a medical prodigy, he has studied to be a doctor and opened his own clinic for London's unfortunates. A terrible curse traps Denbury's noble soul and it's up to fiesty, brave Miss Natalie Stewart to save him and become his partner in a paranormal intrigue where demons threaten the whole of New York City and beyond.

The author coined her own word to describe him: Denburylicious.

DARKER STILL was an Indie Next List recommended buy by the American Booksellers Association, a Scholastic Book Fairs "Highly Recommended" title, a 2012 Daphne du Maurier Award finalist for excellence in Mystery/Romantic Suspense and is available wherever books are sold in paperback and digital. The sequel, THE TWISTED TRAGEDY OF MISS NATALIE STEWART, will release this November from Sourcebooks. Find out more about Denburylicious at http://leannareneehieber.com/.♥

Leanna Renee Hieber is the award winning author of the bestselling Gothic Victorian Fantasy, The Strangely Beautiful series. She also has a new mystery series, Magic Most Foul. Book one, DARKER STILL, is an INDIE NEXT recommended title by the American Booksellers Association. You can find out more about Leanna and her works at http://leannareneehieber.com/. Follow and Friend her at http://twitter.com/leannarenee and http://facebook.com/lrhieber.



TOMORROW:    Meet C.H. Admirand's sexy cowboy, Jesse.
  
 

THE SPY I LOVE

By Del Carmen

I have always been fascinated with Bond, James Bond, aka Agent 007.   He is the ultimate hero -- loyal, fierce, determined, experienced and very sexy!

007 is suave, sophisticated, cultured and has the best toys.  However, behind that perfectly pressed tuxedo is a man with a license to kill...in and out of bed. 

Here are the many faces of James Bond -- 007 -- for your viewing pleasure.  Enjoy!

The Original

The Legend

The Sophisticate

The Tormented

The Ladies Man

The Heir 



Del Carmen likes her heroes to be strong and loyal.  James Bond is one she would never kick out of bed.  To learn more about Del Carmen, visit her at www.mydelcarmen.com.

TOMORROW:  Stop by and meet Leanna Renee Hieber's Lord Denbury.
  

I CONFESS…I LOVE ROMANTIC HEROES

By Hannah Rowan



I confess, I love daring, dashing romantic heroes. The swashbuckling pirates, space pilots, sheiks, billionaires, and captains of industry. The special agents who can survive in the jungle armed only with a foot of dental floss and a pack of gum. The cops and the soldiers and all the manly men we read and write about.

Confession stories, though, aren’t necessarily tales of romance. The heroes, if the story calls for one, live a little closer to home and to real life. While they could be soldiers or cops or even millionaires, mostly they’re the guy next door, an old flame from high school, or the man standing behind us in line at the grocery store.

I like to think of them as the guys a mother wishes her daughter would marry.

In a confession story, one person, usually a woman, is burdened with a flaw or a character defect she must overcome in order to find happiness.

The man in her life loves her in spite of her wrongheadedness, though he’ll do his best to help her see the error of her ways.

The ideal, boy-next-door, true-to-life hero isn’t perfect. Those of us who inhabit the real world know that men don’t always listen when we talk. Sometimes they eat the last piece of pie or leave their wet towels on the bathroom floor. They might think it’s more important to attend a football game with their buddies than to accompany us to a flower show.

But we love them anyway.

We love them because of the times they offer to take the kids so we can sleep late, because they know we’ve been working hard.

We love them because sometimes they rub our backs, or bring us a cup of tea, or decide to cook dinner so we can put our feet up after a long day.

We love them because they don’t laugh—much—when we cry at Hallmark commercials, and they don’t yell—much--when we swerve into oncoming traffic to avoid hitting a squirrel in the road.

We love them because, though they may not understand us, they give it their best effort. They may not always agree with us but they’ll defend us against anyone who gives us a hard time. They’ll change diapers and change tires and—sometimes—fix the little things that need doing around the house.

Real men can be exasperating, confusing, and mysterious. They can be goofy or nerdy, intense or tough and mostly silent.

But no matter what the characteristics of any particular man, I believe the ones worth swooning over are simply doing their best to make us happy because they love us.

And I confess, I believe that’s what makes them worthy heroes.♥





Hannah Rowan worked as a reporter for her local newspaper writing news, features, a gossip column and a humor column for almost twenty years.  She was a stringer for the Star ledger and did news for WXMC-AM radio, and has been published in national magazines.  Hannah has had two romance novels published. During a hiatus from writing she has been working at an assisted living facility doing activities, but has reentered the writing world with a story published in the June edition of True Story magazine. 



TOMORROW:   Meet "The Spy I Love" by Del Carmen.

WHAT IS A HERO?

By Carolyn Gibbs


While thinking of what to write for this post, I wondered what is exactly is a hero. As writers we all toss around the word hero so much, and use it without thinking about what it means. So I looked up the definition of the word hero, and then applied it my hero, Daren Elliot who is featured in my novella "Love & the Economy," which will be coming out in September by Secret Cravings Publishing.

As writers we all know our hero is the main character of our story. In short, the man our leading lady wants to get it on with. Of course the word hero has several meanings and the dictionary first states it as somebody who is admired. Well that’s an easy one, in "Love & the Economy," Daren is still admired, although from a distance by his ex-wife Andrea. When they’re forced to share their house again, Daren attempts to win Andrea’s love back and looks around and starts meeting her needs. He takes it upon himself to update her basement office. And it’s not long after Andrea sees him hauling lumber in his work clothes, and flexing his muscles while driving in nails that her admiration grows. But it’s not just a physical thing. Daren goes out of his way to become a better father to his children, and pitches in with the housekeeping. A hero who can design and build a room, and whip up dinner when Andre’s working late is hard for her to resist.

Another definition of a hero is a man with super human powers. Several things came to mind when I read this one, from firefighter’s and civilians running into burning buildings to save people, to the likes of Spiderman when he puts on “the suit”. Daren’s not a super hero in the big screen sense of the word, instead he’s a man who had a dream of having his own architectural business and then worked his buns off to achieve his goal. However, somewhere along the way he became a workaholic and lost sight of what was most important to him, his wife and family. What I find heroic in Daren is that he had the courage to take a bad situation, and to put his energy into doing something for the ones he loved.

And of course the last dictionary definition for hero is a long sandwich. At times Daren is a bit of a ham as he enjoys being the center of attention, especially when it’s Andrea’s attention he’s seeking.
While writing the story I rooted for Daren’s success. Once I got into Daren’s head and understood his motivations, it was easy to identify with him and to help him regain a relationship with his ex during a difficult time in his life. Once he realized he still loved Andrea, he rolled up his sleeves and began building a new life for the both of them, and it doesn’t hurt that he’s showing off his killer biceps while doing it. ♥



Carolyn Gibbs has a background in television news, and is published in short fiction. She’s a member of RWA New York City Chapter, RWA Women’s Fiction Chapter and Liberty States Fiction Writers. You can follow her on http://carolynwrites.blogspot.com.



TOMORROW:   Meet Hannah Rowan's hero.
 

MEN WHO INSPIRE MY HEROES

By Catherine Greenfeder

When I think of the men in my life who inspire my heroes, I think of several, including my dad.

My father had been strict and very conservative, but he had a lot of admirable qualities. He had been a boy scout, an altar boy, served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and worked for awhile as a New York City police officer. From him I learned the practical skill of riding a bicycle, how to take care of my first car, to work hard for what I want, and to think about the less fortunate. My father retired at sixty five from his business career in Tulsa, Oklahoma, but he kept working as a volunteer with the senior center by helping teach computers and tax preparation, and by delivering meals to homebound seniors in the community. We both enjoyed bowling, walks, and bird watching. Since my paternal grandparents came from Gibraltar where Spanish is the second language, my father grew up bilingual.

So, Miguel Stephens, the handsome, dark-skinned Mexican hero in SACRED FIRES, my paranormal romance has a basis in my background, my father’s paternalistic attitude of protection, family, and a bit of the Latin temperament I found on my paternal side.

My maternal grandfather, Papa Ned, carried the Irish love of storytelling. The love of malarkey carried over with him and my mother who also loves to tell stories. Had they written them down, they’d fill a library. My maternal grandfather’s love of stories about the bog, the ghosts, and the banshee inspired my wanting to tell paranormal stories. In my work in progress, a YA paranormal, KISS OUT OF TIME, my young heroine’s widowed grandmother dates a man who much like my grandfather loves to spin tales about ghosts. The book’s adolescent hero is loosely based on my own husband who I met in high school. Jake and my husband are smart, pragmatic, sensitive, and skeptical redheads. Yet their protective nature and curiosity win out. Friends of ours did astrology charts for me and my husband one time, and I couldn’t believe it when my skeptical husband who mocked such things showed an interest in their astrological forecasts.

I also drew upon my experiences of having raised a teenage son. Much like Jake, the hero in KISS OUT OF TIME, my son Jon is scientifically oriented. He also has a chivalrous and good natured side which wins him a lot of friends. Like Jake he classifies himself as a geek with a social following.

One uncle had been like a father to me. He, too, embodied a lot of heroic qualities – that of being a good father, a loving husband to my mother’s sister, and a hard worker. He served in the army during World War 2, and he had been a kind and generous soul. Joe, the romantic interest in THE GIRL HE LEFT BEHIND, my women’s fiction work in progress, is based on my uncle.

Heroes come in many forms, and I know that the men in my life inspired mine in some form or another. Sometimes consciously, other times subconsciously, but they do. Of course, it’s fiction, so I mix qualities up and imbue other qualities. Ryan Majors, the hero of WILDFLOWERS, my western historical, captures a lot of the men I’ve known. Tough, courageous, fun loving, good with children, and hard working, Ryan goes through a lot to protect and to keep the woman, Johanna Wade, he loves.

So, in writing the hero, look around you at the men in your life and see if you can find their heroic side.♥



Cathy Greenfeder is a published author, whose books include SACRED FIRES, WILDFLOWERS, and ANGELS AMONG US. She is currently working on KISS OUT OF TIME, a YA paranormal romance, and two other books.

SOMETIMES A HERO JUST WON’T GIVE UP

By Dee Davis

I’ve been a storyteller all of my life. When I was a kid, my dad and I used to sit in the mall or a restaurant and make up stories about the people walking by or sitting around us. So it really wasn’t much of a leap to find myself a novelist. But what was interesting to me was that no matter what kind of story I was telling, the characters all seemed to know each other.

Sometimes people from other novels were simply mentioned in another of my books in passing. Sometimes they actually had cameo appearances. And several times now, a person I created to be a secondary character in one story has demanded his own book. Such was the case with DEADLY DANCE’s Harrison Blake. Harrison first showed up in my Last Chance Series, working as that team’s computer forensic expert. It even turned out he’d also worked for MIDNIGHT RAIN’s John Brighton at his Phoenix organization, even though the company is created at the end of the book and never actually appears on paper.

Originally, Harrison was intended to be the hero of the third book in the trilogy. But I wound up falling in love with another secondary character, and so it was Nigel who wound up as the leading man in the third book. Still, even though Harrison had lost his starring role, he was a heck of a supporting player. And as such, he has received more mail than any of my other characters. And almost all of those letters are from readers asking when he’s going to have his day.

So when A-Tac found itself in need of a technical guru, it was a no-brainer for me to bring Harrison into the fold. As he became an integral part of the team, Harrison demanded to have his day. After all, he’d done his time—five books as a secondary character not to mention the off-screen stint in MIDNIGHT RAIN.

And of course, as his story developed, he needed help from his old friends. So enter Madison Roarke and Tracy Braxton. Madison was the heroine of the first Last Chance book, ENDGAME. And like Harrison, Tracy had been placed in the role of supporting character, as a world-class forensic pathologist.

What can I say? It’s a small world, and they all know and help each other. And finally, of course, Harrison needed to meet the girl of his dreams. And imagine my surprise when I realized she was already right there in front of him. Hannah Marshall has been at the heart of all the A-Tac books. A long-time A-Tac member, she’s always there with the answers when needed. With her quirky way of expressing herself (eyeglasses and streaked hair) and her well-developed intellect, Hannah seemed perfect for Harrison. The two of them just didn’t know it yet.

So I threw them together, and as they say, the plot thickened, and DEADLY DANCE was born. Hopefully you’ll enjoy reading Harrison and Hannah’s story as much as I enjoyed writing it—and Harrison enjoyed starring in it. Sometimes perseverance is the name of the game. Heck, I even dedicated the book to him!

Here’s to Harrison!♥



When bestselling author Dee Davis isn’t sitting at the computer, she can be found exploring Manhattan with her husband, daughter and Cardigan Welsh Corgi. For more on Harrison Blake, look for the re-released digital versions of the Last Chance series this summer. DEADLY DANCE is on sale now! www.deedavis.com.



TOMORROW!   Men Who Inspire My Heroes by Catherine Greenfeder.
  
  

JUST ONE OF THE GUYS

By Suleikha Snyder

"Hero" is such a loaded word, bringing to mind men who rush into burning buildings, who leap them in a single bound. It's become shorthand, in romance, for your leading man. Someone larger than life, who leaps off the page with his heart on his sleeve, just as if it's a skyscraper. But what happens when your lead isn't a hero? No, no, he's not a villain...he doesn't pull the wings off butterflies or kick puppies...he's just a “guy”. A dude. Maybe even a dudebro.

I write a lot of guys and not so many heroes - which is funny, since most of their occupations are as screen idols! To date, I've published stories about six actors, one football player and a hotshot doctor. And while most of them are used to being adored by the masses and put up on pedestals as gods, they're also flawed and frustrating. They'll mess up. They'll fall. They will probably forget your birthday and possibly leave you for another woman - or a man! But they'll work at being better, and they'll apologize, and they'll still love you in the best way they know how. That's the best way that I know to write them.

I think it comes from years of watching soaps - where no Happily Ever After comes easily. Watching purported heroes have to “fight” to get back to their heroine, often after affairs and marriages with other people, I lost interest in perfection. Because you just “knew” they were going to screw up. And as annoying as it is to yell, "Oh my God, stop being a douche!" at your TV, there's a huge measure of satisfaction when the guy finally gets it right. I “love” it when he gets it right...when you get that big gesture, or that big speech, after all the pain.

I love writing that moment, too...but I try to remember, at all times, that my characters are just dudes. It's not going to be perfect. It might even be incredibly awkward. Even if they're cribbing lines from a Bollywood script. The lucky thing about writing dialogue punched up with Hindi and Bengali is that men can say flowery things in those languages that would sound utterly ridiculous in English. But it's still a fine line to walk. Why do we love that iconic scene with Lloyd Dobler and the stereo so much? He “didn't” "Say Anything." To me, that is something a classic “guy” would do, because outside of romance novels and soaps and rom-coms, they don't really wax poetic about much. Except maybe the Yankees.

So I try to stay away from "heroes" - and let my dudes steal their way home.♥

Editor, writer, American desi and lifelong geek, Suleikha Snyder published her first romantic short in Ravenous Romance's 2011 TOUCHDOWNS anthology. 2012 brought a bevy of releases, including Suleikha's first novella from Samhain Publishing, SPICE AND SMOKE, a Wild Rose Press short story called HEART MURMURS, and a short in Cleis Press' SUITE ENCOUNTERS. Suleikha lives in New York City, finding inspiration in Bollywood films, daytime and primetime soaps, and Hell's Kitchen wine bars. Visit her at www.suleikhasnyder.com and follow "suleikhasnyder" on Twitter.


TOMORROW:   Do a DEADLY DANCE with Dee Davis' hero!
 

  

THE ANTI-HERO

By Mageela Troche



Throughout history, we’ve exalted the hero but in romance, there is one that is an utterly delicious one—the Anti-hero.

These heroes exist in every sub-genre whether the rake in regency, the town’s bad boy in the contemporary or the vampire. At first interaction, he appears unredeemable, a man of too many flaws and nothing to recommend him. But then, he stands up for the girl getting hit on in the bar or dances with the wallflower. And you see the hero in him.

Of course, the Anti-hero buried it because of life experiences that forced to hide it. Those foolish, soft emotions that he fights against still exist in him. He buries them through alcohol, fighting, humor even sucking blood. Think Eric Northman.

This hero is one that is reformed by the right woman in his life. The evolution of this man is an inner struggle, one the heroine is at the center of. When she comes to him, he’d sneer, say something snarky or just send her on his way—maybe even use her but he can’t really let her go. Here his motivation and backstory play an important part. In the past, he had loved and had his heart ripped out in shreds, all he cared for was wiped out or maybe the people in his town thought less of him so he put up his defenses. His backstory plays a major part in his life. His past pain haunts him even as he fights against it. The anti-hero is more soft-hearted than other heroes. And the heroine helps bring the honor he possess and the grand love he is capable of producing out because he learns that he isn’t alone. This hero has a person to believe in him and love him back, his own personal safe haven.

As he faces the conflict, external and internal, his redemption is the richest reward. However, he still retains the keen edge. And nothing is hotter than a bad boy with the heart of gold.♥

An Air Force brat, Mageela landed in New York City and wanted to leave the same day she arrived. Yet, with her stubbornness, she learned to like the place and the librabries were the main reason. Learning to read at four-years-old, she decided to be an author and an actress. Once in college, she changed her life plan in the pursuit of money. After all, college loans must be repaid. With life's twists and turns, she returned to writing and focused on the romance genre. She joined RWA in 2004 and soon discovered RWANYC. Mageela Troche is a PRO member and placed 2nd in FTHRW Wallflower Best Love Scene, has published various articles for her local chapter and their blog besides having her own. She is 2012 Vice President for RWANYC chapter and currently research, writing, revising--the cycle of writing.


TOMORROW:  Come back and check out Suleikha Snyder's hero!
  
  

WHAT MAKES A HERO?

By Thea Devine

I watched the other day as a male cardinal flew into our bird feeder, pecked at the seed and then flew up to the branch above where his female waited, and gave it to her.

That is a hero.

He put his loved one first.

Does your hero put his loved one first -- especially when he hasn't confessed yet she's his loved one? Does he always tell her what she doesn't want to know (always a sure sign)?

Is he a guy who takes out the garbage without being asked, cleans the cat box, does his share of the cooking, shovels the snowed-up path to make it easier for you, makes sure you don't trip on the curb you didn't see, copies the NY Times crossword puzzle for you every Monday and Tuesday?

Would he do the two a.m. newborn feedings? Carry your colicky baby around for hours? Fix things like small electricals and minor plumbing? Build bookcases for your ever expanding library and not complain?

Is he a problem solver? A man of few words, a man of action? Would he search high and low for a way to repair an almost irreparably storm damaged canoe just because you love it?

Does he have your back? Has he seen you at your worst -- and still loves you? Is he your best friend?

Does he listen?

Does he give you space to create?

John and I are celebrating our 46th wedding anniversary this month, and I confess there's a little bit of him in every male protagonist I write (don't tell). And he does all those small, loving things and more (except the bird part) that are much more meaningful (to me) than larger, grander gestures. And so, no matter how many characters I've created, it is always John who is absolutely my hero, now and forever.♥




Thea Devine is the author whose books defined erotic historical romance. She is a charter member of RWA/NYC, a newly minted grandma, and she's currently working on BEYOND THE NIGHT, a sequel to her June 2011 release, THE DARKEST HEART, to be published by Pocket Star April 2013.  Visit her at www.theadevine.com.

TOMORROW:   Meet Mageela Troche's hero.

WHY DO I LOVE MY HERO

By Isabo Kelly

I’ve been thinking about what makes Nathan Longfeather, the hero of my newest science fiction romance, THE SECRET OF NARAVA, a hero for me. What is it about him that I love so much?

Turns out it’s the same thing I love in all heroes. (I love this in my heroine’s too, but when I find this trait in my heroes it is swoon-worthy.) I love protector heroes, heroes who will do what it takes to take care of those they’re responsible for, those who might not be able to take care of themselves. And when they turn that protective instinct on the heroine, it makes me all tingly.

What makes this even better for me is when the hero still allows the heroine to be who she is, and in fact, falls in love with her because of who she is. But he doesn’t try to change her in his quest to keep her safe. He embraces who she is and that’s the very reason he wants to take care of her.

Nathan is a mercenary—well, he prefers security specialist—and he gets paid to keep people safe. The reasons for choosing this job: he likes the action; but more importantly, as a mercenary he can make good money to take care of his mother. Whether he ever admits it or not, he went into a career that involves helping and protecting people, in order to help and protect his own.

When he’s hired to protect Dr. Ti’ann Jones and her dig site, that instinct to look after his charges gets personal. Ti’ann drives him nuts, and he worries for her a lot, but he doesn’t attempt to make her different. He just tries to be there when she needs him (even if being there is making him a little crazy).

That’s my hero.♥



For more on Isabo Kelly and her books, visit her at www.isabokelly.com, follow her on Twitter @IsaboKelly, or friend her on Facebook www.facebook.com/IsaboKelly.

HOT HUNKS, COLD BEERS: WELCOME TO SUMMER, PEOPLE! (includes excerpt)

By Hope Tarr

I have a confession to make. When I first set out with my partner, Raj Moorjani, to develop our Beer Gardens NYC™ iOS phone app, I wasn’t much of a beer drinker. Sure, I’d have a couple of cold ones every so often, usually in the summer, but in the main I saw myself as a wine and cocktail girl. Solidly.

But once Raj and I embarked on our research mission, which involved visiting at first fifty and later more than sixty New York City beer gardens—I know, poor us!—beer started to, you might say, grow on me. As my appreciation for beer expanded, so did my repertoire, which now includes not only standbys such as Stella and Corona but also more exotic-to-me brews like Lindemans Framboise, Hoegaarden, and Weihenstephaner, all among the 1,000+ unique beers listed by venue in our app.

In the spirit of life imitating art and vice versa, beer started showing up in my writing, too both in my nonfiction works—e.g., my post on Peruvian chicha (corn beer) for a great website, Brews and Books—and, most recently, my romance fiction.

In OPERATION CINDERELLA (October 2012), the first in my “Suddenly Cinderella” Series for Entangled Publishing, my political talk show host hero, Ross Mannon is an outright alpha male, a Texas good ole boy who earned his Ph.D. in sociology while working road construction, and yes, a beer drinker. That’s not to stay Ross is averse to having the occasional martini, though unlike persnickety James Bond he doesn’t really care about the shaken versus stirred aspect. There’s also a very romantic scene in the book in which he snags a chilled bottle of Cristal, two fluted champagne glasses—and my former Goth girl heroine’s heart—on the Kennedy Center’s roof terrace at midnight. Sigh!

But in the main, Ross is a beer guy and like most things about his life, he makes no apologies for his beverage preference. Below is a sneak peak from the book. In it, Ross meets up with Francesca, his Brit ex-wife and the mother of their troubled fifteen year-old daughter, at a snooty Washington, DC restaurant which she, of course, chose. Waiting for her to show, he orders…you guessed it, a beer!

Enjoy the excerpt and please look for OPERATION CINDERELLA this October 2012.

Cheers! Salute! Santé! Slainte! Prost!♥

Hope Tarr is the award-winning author of nearly twenty historical and contemporary romances, including VANQUISHED and TEMPTING, Kindle Top 100 bestsellers, and a co-developer of Beer Gardens NYC™, the first app for beer gardens anywhere in the U.S. Look for Hope’s “Suddenly Cinderella” Series with Entangled Publishing, beginning with OPERATION CINDERELLA this November 2012. Hope is also a co-founder and current principal of Lady Jane’s Salon™, NYC’s first and only monthly romance reading series, now with four satellites nationwide. Find Hope online at http://www.hopetarr.com/, http://www.writernyc.com/, http://www.ladyjanesalonnyc.com/, and http://www.beergardensnyc.com/ as well as on Facebook and Twitter.



EXCERPT: From OPERATION CINDERELLA, Book #1 in the Suddenly Cinderella Series
Entangled Publishing, November 2012
Copyright Hope Tarr


The trendy Dupont Circle restaurant wouldn’t have been Ross’s pick but as usual his ex knew her own mind. Small surprise, he was the first to arrive. Taking possession of the table he’d reserved, he went ahead and ordered their drinks, a glass of chardonnay for her and a Coors for him. He was halfway through his beer when he spotted her by the hostess stand, a vision of haute couture elegance in a lime silk suit that caught the color of her almond-shaped eyes. Catching his wave, she smiled and made her way over through the aisle of tables.

“Hullo, darling, so sorry to be late but traffic was beastly.”

Because they were friends and no longer battling spouses, he declined to point out that DC traffic was always bad and maybe just once she might try leaving early—or even on time. Instead he rose to pull out her chair. “You look good, Frannie.”

At thirty-three, Francesca was a sleekly beautiful woman with black hair and jade-colored eyes that turned up slightly at the corners. Her current outfit was killer, showing off her tall, slender figure to perfection, but then the thread industry was her business. A top fashion photographer, her work regularly appeared in Vogue, Elle, In Style, and Glamour as well as in a host of European magazines, the names of which he could never remember. She was, without reservation, one of his best friends… so long as he didn’t have to be married to her.

She set down her purse, a cavernous shoulder bag so hideous it had to be designer, and slid into her seat. “You’re looking smashing, not your usual rumpled curmudgeon self at all.” She took a sip of her wine, cat-like gaze taking his measure as he sat back down.“That’s a new suit, isn’t it?” Clothing Francesca never missed. “And just when I’d memorized your entire wardrobe, all three dark suits and five striped ties, not counting the army of white Oxford cloth button-downs.”

“What can I say, I like keeping you in suspense. How’s that wine by the way?”

"Lovely.” She took another sip, staring at him over the glass rim. “Though after the week I’ve had, I could probably use a martini. On second thought, make that multiple martinis.”

“That bad?”

She hesitated, which was unlike her. “The shoot in Milan for Vogue has been pushed up a week, which means the location bookings, everything, will have to be rescheduled. By the by, I caught your last broadcast.”

Her turning the topic away from herself wasn’t lost on him but for now he decided to let it lie. “You listened to my show? To what do I owe this high honor?”

She picked up the menu. “When one of my prop people happened to mention your name, I couldn’t resist a listen. Mind you I say this with only love in my heart, but you came off as a perfect pig.” She glanced about, feigning concern. “I actually considered wearing a wig and dark glasses.”

He grinned. “Afraid your NOW membership might be revoked if you’re caught having lunch with the enemy?” Because he knew it drove her crazy, he ignored the frosted mug their waiter had brought and took a swig of his beer straight from the bottle….♥



TOMMOROW:   Meet Nathan Longfeather and author Isabo Kelly.

THE ALPHA-OMEGA HERO

by Margaret Birth

Alpha, beta, gamma . . . We romance writers have a whole Greek alphabet that we often use to characterize the heroes in our stories—at least in our secular romance stories. But what of Christian romances? What type of heroes do they have? This is a question I was recently asked.

“‘I am the Alpha and the Omega,’ says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty” says Revelation 1:8. Christian romance heroes come in all types, just as secular romance heroes do: adventurous daredevils, geeky sweethearts, tortured (reformed) bad boys, determined visionaries. . . . They do possess one constant, one common trait, though: their devotion to the Alpha-Omega—God—and to the love He exemplifies. So maybe we could call them—respectfully, of course—the Alpha-Omega type, because these heroes are the type that is defined most of all by their faith in the Lord.

Whether he enters a story as a Christian character or not, by its end a Christian romance hero has determined to surrender his life to God; and in that determination there exists much strength.

When we analyze plot, there are three particular literary elements at which we look: goal, motivation, and conflict. The stronger the motivation, the stronger the goal; and the stronger the dedication to a goal, the stronger the conflict is likely to be when that goal is challenged. If a Christian romance novel hero or heroine comes into a story already as a person of faith, then that faith is always at least an underlying part of what motivates them; whatever their primary motivation or goal may be, they wouldn’t betray their core beliefs, their deepest motivation. If, on the other hand, a Christian romance novel hero or heroine comes into a story without faith, some part of the plot will necessarily include their embracing faith—and it will then be a motivating factor in whatever goals they pursue and in however they address conflict.

While the secular world may view submission as a sign of loss, powerlessness, weakness, or lack of control, Christian readers recognize a romance hero’s willingness to submit his life to God as quite the opposite. Paradoxical though this may sound, such willing submission communicates itself as strength—a choice that, once made, often clarifies and fortifies the Christian romance hero’s other motivations and goals.

The world in which Christian romance characters live is the same as the world in which secular romance characters live. This world is one in which dangers threaten, temptations lure, fears overwhelm, troubles haunt, difficulties depress, and love and security—however we envision them—are the most desired commodities. Into this world steps the Christian romance novel hero.

Through his faith convictions, he has the determination to approach the world from a different perspective, with values that reflect the Beatitudes rather than worldly attitudes. Through his confidence in a power greater than that any man possesses, he has the sureness of heart to do what he believes he is called to do. It’s not always an easy fit—especially when a special relationship with a special woman enters the mix.

But, as a Christian romance novel hero, he totally gets what St. Paul meant, in Colossians 3:14, when he advised that, “above all,” believers should “put on love.”♥



Margaret Birth is a Christian writer who has been widely published in short fiction, short nonfiction, and poetry, both in the U.S. and abroad; in addition to working as a freelance writer, she's spent over a decade freelancing for multiple publishers as a manuscript reader, proofreader, and copy editor.
  
  

A HERO’S MANIFEST

By Michael J. Molloy



In romance writing, I tend to extol the virtues of my heroine more so than my hero for obvious reasons. But since we’re focusing on the man, allow me to give my take on what the quintessential hero should be.

First, he should be modest. For me, it’s not about the man. Although some heroines may wish to lavish their men with high praise for noble deeds, it takes a special hero to step back and be a little humble. Most women are turned off when the hero is all over himself.

Second, the hero should be pleasantly unpredictable. He shouldn’t necessarily follow what’s expected of him. Have the heroine be amazed when her man does things she doesn’t assume as the norm. He doesn’t need to be overly spontaneous, but thinking outside the box once in a while will certainly go a long way in perpetuating the relationship between the hero and the heroine.

Third, he has to have compassion. If the heroine has something that’s troubling her outside her relationship with the hero, he ought to have a sympathetic ear for her plight. Show some understanding. Make the heroine feel wanted and appreciated. Be concerned.

Fourth, the hero has to have a very good sense of humor. By this, I don’t mean he has to goofy or ridiculous, but just make the heroine laugh a little, whether it be by words or actions. The heroine will appreciate her man’s whimsical charm.

Finally, the hero should be devoted and committed to his woman. In the face of adversity, when the heroine inexplicably does or says something under coercion or duress that may result in problems for the hero, he should have a forgiving heart and renew his pledge that he still loves her.

There you have it. Five components that I would like to see my hero manifest. Are all necessary to make the hero stand out? Not necessarily. But possessing the bulk of these virtues makes him highly desirable for the heroine.♥




Michael Molloy is a big fan of authors Stephen King, Tom Clancy and Frederick Forysth. He didn’t get the writing bug until 12 years ago. Michael was influenced greatly by an English teacher he had during his years at Stuyvesant High School -- the late Frank McCourt (ANGELA’S ASHES). In 2009, he self-published his novel, DEUTERONOMY: THE NEW TEN COMMANDMENTS.   Michael recently sold his mainstream romance novel, THE DIAMOND MAN, to Gypsy Shadow Publishing, which will debut in 2013.  It’s about a career minor league baseball announcer who struggles to put a terrible marriage behind him, and the attractive, kind-hearted woman who restores his faith in love.  Michael has begun a thriller called, SADISTIC PATTER, and he has also written a screenplay, “Simon Rockets”, which got as far as talks with Hollywood producer Beau Carson (“The Tempest”). To learn more about him, visit him at http://www.authormichaeljmolloy.com/.



COME BACK TOMORROW!  Margaret Birth discusses the Alpha-Omera Hero.
 

LESSON LEARNED

By Ursula Reneé

No one messed with anything that belonged to him and, as far as Dallas Reynolds was concern, Lynn Jeffreys was his woman.

He didn’t care if his way of thinking was archaic or if she’d take exception to his declaration. She’d just have to get over it.

The petite blonde, who barely came up to his shoulders, was the woman he had always imagined settling down with. On more than one occasion she had demonstrated that she was not afraid to get her hands dirty. Instead of helplessly waiting by the side of the road for her knight in shining armor to drive up and change her tire, she’d roll up her sleeves, pull back her hair and be half way through the job by the time help arrived.

She also valued the same things as he did. Family was high on their list, followed by hard work. And, though they dreamed of travelling, the small town of Douglas, NC would always be home to them.

Yes, they were compatible in every way imaginable and were meant to be together, ‘til death did them part.

Dallas downed the rest of his beer, slammed the empty mug onto the bar, and slid off the stool. Ignoring Hank’s curses over the abuse of his glassware, Dallas move through the crowd, determined to take what was his.

Unlike the other dancers who sensed trouble brewing and gave him space, the couple was oblivious to his approach and held tight to each other as they swayed in time to the music. This gave him the advantage.

Dallas grabbed the Casanova who was encroaching on his territory, spun him around, and delivered a punch that sent the other man flying back three feet.

Though the Casanova may not have had the intelligence to leave another man’s property alone, he showed better sense than to mess with a Reynolds. Without taking his eyes off Dallas, he backed away until he was at a safe distance from his foe, then turned and fled out the diner.

Satisfied the threat had been eliminated, Dallas turned to face the woman who was destined to be the mother of his children.

“No one’s allowed to dance with my wife, but me,” Dallas stated.

The glare Lynn fixed on him said she would not to stand for his caveman bull and for a moment he feared that death would do them part before they made it down the aisle.

Before he could toss her over his shoulder and claim what was his, she threw her beer in his face and told him where to go. She then stormed out the door, leaving him to wonder what had gone wrong.

A cough pulled Dallas out his stupor. He turned to the bar, where his brother had watched the fiasco of his proposal. Hank did not have to say a word; his frown spoke for him. He was disappointed in how Dallas had chosen to handle the situation. It was not how the man they called dad had taught them to behave.

Beau Reynolds had been a proud man who knew what he wanted and was not shy about going after it. Not long after their mother’s divorce from the sperm donor, as Hank and Dallas fondly called their biological father, Beau had decided that he wanted to make June his wife. However, instead of employing the ‘I’m man, you’re woman, and you’ll do what I say’ approach that would have had both June and her sons showing him the door, he set about proving himself worthy of being her husband and the father of her children.

Beau demonstrated that he was willing to stand by June’s side as they built a future together. He respected her and treated her like an equal, not only discussing things with her, but taking her opinions into consideration. He recognized that she was a strong woman, one who as was capable of taking care of her and her own and that she did not need, nor would she stand for, someone swooping and taking over.

Dallas glanced at the door that the woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with had walked out. He had treated Lynn in a manner he would not have tolerated any man to have treated his mother. And, by doing so, he disrespected the memory of the parents.

The realization of his mistake must have shown on his face. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Hank’s nod.

With a sigh, Dallas headed for the door to make things right. Following another example that their father had taught them, he went after the woman he loved to apologize to her. He figured, if he survived the tongue lashing she would surely give him, he would set out to prove that though she could make it on her own, together, with him, would be much better.♥



Dallas and Hank Reynolds are the eldest brothers to Austin and Shane Reynolds, whose stories are told in the yet-to-be-published romantic thrillers, SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY and SOUTHERN JUSTICE by Ursula Reneé. When Ursula is not writing, she enjoys drawing, photography and stone carving. Visit her website at www.ursularenee.com.



TOMORROW: Stop by and read Michael J. Molloy’s “Hero Manifest”

THE BODYGUARD

By Mingmei Yip

We all think we want men who will give us security and also a good time. But the Chinese say, “A bad man can always get a woman into bed.”

So, if a man is too nice and too proper, there’s security – but where’s the fun?

That’s why the two main male characters in my novel SKELETON WOMEN are not all good. One is a dandy with excellent taste, lots of money to spend who dearly loves Camilla the singer-spy. But his father, Master Lung, is a ruthless warlord, head of the Flying Dragon gang – and Camilla has been ordered to assassinate him.

The other man, a character I really like and enjoyed writing about, is Gao the head bodyguard of Master Lung. Gao is what the Chinese describe as tiehan rouqing, an iron man with tender sentiments. The bodyguard is tall, muscular, tough and loyal. But whenever he is in front of Camilla, his heart would become as delicate as silk.

There is another Chinese saying to describe this kind of men, raozhi rou, bailian gang -- soft as a silk handkerchief but strong as steel. The softness refers to the man’s heart when he’s with his beloved woman, and the strength his fearless personality, or, his maleness. So, with a man like this, what woman’s heart would not melt?

The famous sage Laozi once said that “The soft overcomes the strong,” like dripping water wearing away stones. And so it happens that powerful men may become powerless in the hands of helpless-seeming women. Softness can be more lethal than hardened steel.

Gao the bodyguard in my novel SKELETON WOMEN works his way up by taking brutal knife wounds and excruciating bullets for his gang boss. Each knife and bullet hole, instead of turning women away, works more powerfully on them than any aphrodisiac. Women cannot resist taking this damaged man into their arms to stroke his wounds with their warm lips.

But none of these women were invited to stay.

Because Gao loves only Camilla, the one woman who is beyond his reach – his gangster boss’ mistress.

What woman wouldn’t love a man like this bodyguard?♥



Mingmei Yip’s fourth novel SKELETON WOMEN (Kensington Books, June 2012) is the story of a singer/spy, a magician, and a gossip columnist, all scheming to survive the gang wars in the 30’s lawless Shanghai. RT book reviews describes SKELETON WOMEN as “A large, luscious box of chocolates…go on, you know you want to.” And Publisher’s Weekly, “Entertaining… diversion is (a strength of this book). Visit Mingmei at http://www.mingmeiyip.com/.

WRITERCARE: Stress Management for Heroes

by Elizabeth Palladino


Stress is almost a given for anyone who is writing seriously for publication and dealing with the usual plethora of real-world commitments. The term ‘stress-free writer’ is probably an oxymoron.

Research shows that men are more prone to stress-related illnesses than women. Men are less likely to recognize stressors. In fact, they tend to deny that they even have any stress.

There are things men can and must do to achieve a more balanced life; women, too. Only you can take charge of your schedule and keep stress levels manageable. Identify the causes of stress in your life and accept any responsibility you have for creating stressors. Learn how to say no, avoid difficult people, take control of your environment, and cut down your to-do list. You may need to adapt to the stressor by trying to see it in a more positive manner, because you can’t control everything. Some things just cannot be changed.

You must make time for whatever is fun and relaxing for you. It may be football and beer nuts. Try to keep a sense of humor and stay connected to positive people. Build the strongest support system you can. You must do something enjoyable every single day. As a creative person, it is vital that you re-charge your batteries.

Whether you are male --or female--, taking care of yourself is not selfish and it is not a luxury. It will enable you to live a happy, healthy life as you publish your profitable novels long into old age.♥



Elizabeth Knowles Palladino lives in Kingston, New York, where she works in health care and writes medieval romance.
  
  
COME BACK TOMORROW!  And meet Mingmei Yip's "Body Guard."
  

  
 

HEROES OF ALL AGES

By Jennifer McAndrews

Back in January I had the honor of being asked to write a short story for a young adult anthology. The theme was - loosely - spring. Beyond that, we were free to choose the type of story we wanted to tell then trade the stories among ourselves for editing and proofreading.

For me, no matter what genre I write in, a hint of romance always sneaks into the story. So it didn’t surprise me in the least when my main character Rachel came face-to-face with Bowie - the soft-spoken tenor who would reveal himself as the story’s hero.

Bowie did surprise the author for edited for me. ‘He’s awfully smooth for a high school kid,’ she noted (though I paraphrase). And I thought, is he? Or is he the classics young adult hero?

Let’s think about this for a minute (and when I think, I think in movies, so just go with it, ok?). Consider a few of the more swoon-worthy, full hero moments: Jerry Maguire admittine “You complete me” (Jerry Maguire); Melvin Udall confessing, “You make me want to be a better man” (As Good as It Gets); and of course, Johnny Castle proclaiming, “Nobody puts Baby in a corner” (Dirty Dancing). Interestingly, but perhaps not surprisingly, the moments that take your breath away aren’t limited to “grown up” movies. Those same men who capture the leading lady’s heart were one young men, showing the very same awareness of what it takes to be a hero. We saw it when Duke Orsino turned up to escort Viola to the debutante ball (She’s the Man), when Patrick Verona fessed up to accepting cash to date Kat, but “screwed up” by falling for her (10 Things I Hate About You). And who can forget Jake Ryan waiting outside the church for Samantha and insisting “Yeah, you” (followed, as all romantics know, by the iconic birthday cake scene; Sixteen Candles).

No doubt you can think of more examples, but the evidence is apparent: heroes do not have a ready-by age on them. The traits that give us heroic men are often present in heroic teens. A hero shows up at just the right moment, and, in romance, a hero sees the heroine for who she really is, and loves her for being herself.

Yeah, I think that’s something that girls of all ages can embrace.♥



Jennifer McAndrews is proud to be part of the stellar group of authors in the young adult anthology ETERNAL SPRING -- now available at Amazon in print, or download the ebook FREE. Read excerpts from her other novels at http://www.jennifermcandrews.com/.


TOMORROW:  Elizabeth Knowles writes about heroes and stress.
 
 

  

WHO’S YOUR DADDY?

By Maria Ferrer

Daddies make the best Heroes -- strong, powerful men who are reduced to marshmallows at the hands of a child. I wanted my Hero to such a man.

In FULL-TIME DAD, my secret baby book, my hero Rafael Quintero is livid when he learns that Jessenia Ruiz had his child and never told him. At first, he denounces the child, but one look at the boy and he knows it’s his. Rafael demands to be a part of the child’s life, but as Jessenia points out, they live in Connecticut and he lives in California. If Rafael, really wants to be a father then he needs to think of his son’s best interests and the boy does not need a long-distance dad.

Rafael agrees – a long-distance relationship is not fair to the boy and so he leaves. Jessenia is ecstatic. Rafael is gone; her world is back to normal, and the feel of pending doom dissipates, until Rafael moves into her house three months later to be a full-time dad.

As Rafael gets to know his child so Jessenia gets to know Rafael and she can’t help but fall for Rafael, the Father. He is clueless about dressing a child (we are not farmers so suspenders are out.); feeding a child (anything green is a no-no, so is anything red.); television shows (Sponge Bob is king.); and games (soccer beats football and baseball any day of the week).

Rafael is patient, loving and eager to get to know his son. He muscles his way into the parent-teacher conferences; insists on going to doctor appointments; and willingly sits through eight re-runs of “Nemo.” Jessenia can see the love in Rafael’s eyes when he looks at their son; a love reflected in her son’s eyes.

The only problem is that Jessenia can accept the father, but not the man. Jessenia learns to share her son with his father, but she draws the line at her bed. She wants a man who wants her, the woman, not her, the mother. And, if all Rafael wants is his son, then that is all he gets.

A marriage of convenience is out of the question. Isn’t it?♥



Maria C. Ferrer loves Daddies, determined heroes, and secret baby books. She is working on the final revisions to FULL-TIME DAD, and a second secret baby book starting a soccer coach and 8-year old twins, who run him ragged.



TOMORROW:   Do stop by tomorrow and meet Jennifer McAndrews' hero.
  

WHO’S MY HERO? ...uh, me.

By John Lovelady

Okay, quickly before I get drowned out with raucous laughter, let me jump in here to explain.

Heroes are guys and since I’m a guy and understand guys best, it makes sense to start with me in creating a hero that my heroine will be attracted to and with whom she will end up happily ever after.

Whizzing past the usual suspects, my hero will be handsome, witty, intelligent, sexy and loaded, naturally, but he will also be burdened with the human elements that make for the conflicts required of a good romance.

Shortsightedness, ego, jealousy, ego, anger, ego, id, ego, etc., etc. As embodied in the male animal, I have a pretty good lock on how these work and can call upon them to effectively throw a monkey wrench into the smooth proceedings.

Then the work of creating a man my woman will love begins. How does a stubborn guy give in and try to work things out? How does a career-obsessed magnate realize he needs to re-tune his priorities? How does a happy-go-lucky doofus straighten up and fly right? What makes a hero into the kind of man I hope to be? The kind of man I want my woman to be proud of.

Going from point A -- stubborn, career-obsessed doofus -- to point B -- hero (with or without the big bucks) is the essence of what makes a great romance. The heroine is also going to have her problems, and those will be equally road-blocking, as far as plot is concerned, but the heroine’s I have to surmise by observation, research and, hopefully, good note-taking. The hero’s flaws come a little easier to recognize.

That’s where the real magic happens. Making my ordinary guy into the kind of man I want my hero to be: understanding, sensitive, caring and loving. The staggeringly handsome, mind-bogglingly sexy and totally loaded aspects are icing on the hero cake that make for a great-read package, but underneath it’s the man all us guys who write romances want to be that make a true hero.

We may not achieve it as easily as our created hero does, but facing the written problems and seeing them from all aspects and then working them out so that our hero and heroine are made for each other is good for the writer as well as the reader.

And when it’s Hero/Hero and/or Heroine/Heroine and/or a whole tangle of M’s and F’s, the necessary understanding and caring that must emerge becomes even more of a challenge. I want my reader to understand and empathize with how all my characters get from dewy-eyed to screaming-and-yelling to cozying under the comforters.

And that begins with my understanding and empathizing.

With my thinking like a hero.

With my being a romance writer.

And that’s not a bad thing for a guy to be.♥

John Lovelady's "sexy romp" NEVER LOVE A NAKED P.I. by Elizabeth Maynor is still available on HardShell.com, Amazon.com and Fictionwise.com.



TOMORROW:  Stop by and meet another Hero!
  
  
 

WHY KNIGHTS ARE BETTER

By Ruth A. Casie


Some of my friends think that Regency men are the Uber Romance Hero, and gave me their top three reasons. I agree Regency men look good, live in a world filled with titles, and appear to live a life of leisure. I enjoy Mr. Darcy, but Regency men are all too tame. Let me give you my top three reasons why I think Medieval-Renaissance knights are the best:

1. Appearance:  Some enjoy the breeches, shiny boots, tight coats and acres of snowy white linen. I love the shirtless look of a well-defined chest and ripped abs. It speaks protection, comfort and well, truly, their great to look at. I enlarged my book cover to 8.5x11 and keep it posted next to my desk. Every so often, after his shower, my husband comes over in his towel and poses next it. He thanks me for not including his full face. We can both dream.

2. Ascendance:  Knights were members of the noble class. Likely candidates were chosen at boyhood and trained. A lesser or unlikely man could aspire to knighthood and reach his dreams, if he is found worthy. Knights, their code of conduct and chivalry, "Protect the weak, defenseless, helpless, and fight for the general welfare of all," inspired literature and the foundation of courtship through the middle ages up until the turn of this century. What would a romance be without a (k)night?

3. Adventure:  Knighthood comes with its requirements: save the damsel in distress, right the wrongs, and do away with the villain. Of course there were trials he had to go through to prove himself worthy. Usually he would somehow loose his shirt giving the damsel a glimpse of those perfect pecks and adorable abs.


Knights, not only had to prove themselves worthy on the field of battle (for his king, the damsel or even for himself) but also had to learn to balance the command and control needed to succeed with their own wants and desires. It's a lesson Lord Arik learns in KNIGHT OF RUNES.

What do you think? Regency heroes or Medieval-Renaissance Knights? Or something entirely different?♥



Ruth A Casie is a seasoned professional with over twenty-five years of writing experience but not necessarily writing romances. No, she’s been writing communication and marketing documents for a large corporation. When not writing you can find her home in Teaneck, New Jersey, reading, cooking, doing Sudoku and counted cross stitch. Ruth is a member of several RWA chapters including, New York City, New Jersey, Hearts Through History, RWA Online, and ESPAN. She is also a member of the Liberty States Fiction Writers. Visit her at www.ruthacasie.com or her blog at ruthacasie.blogspot.com. Follow her on Twitter @RuthACasie.



TUNE IN TOMORROW:   John Lovelady asks the question, Who's Your Hero?