Comments on: Hollywood Should Learn From Romance Novels

By: Susan Fox

Susan Fox — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:31:34 +0000

Celeste, I’m guessing you’re right. A good actor will appreciate a well-written role, whether it’s rom-com, thriller, or whatever. I really admire actors who challenge themselves by trying different things – like Daniel Radcliffe going from Harry Potter on screen, to Equus on stage, to musical comedy with How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. One day he’ll play a romance hero and he’ll do a terrific job!

By: Susan Fox

Susan Fox — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:57:34 +0000

Thanks, Vixen.

By: The Obscured Vixen

The Obscured Vixen — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 20:04:17 +0000

Hi Susan! I’ve heard nothing but good things about this book, and I would love to rea it. Thanks for the awesome giveaway!

By: Susan Fox

Susan Fox — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 13:44:41 +0000

You’re very welcome! I hope you enjoy the book.

By: Yadira A.

Yadira A. — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 04:23:57 +0000

WOOHOO

Thanks Susan

By: Susan Fox

Susan Fox — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 04:02:37 +0000

And the winner of a copy of “His, Unexpectedly” is Yadira. Congratulations! And thanks to everyone who commented on this post. Yadira, I’ll email you privately to get your mailing address.

By: Susan Fox

Susan Fox — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 14:55:41 +0000

Hi Na! I think that’s a great summary of what makes for good chemistry in rom-coms. And isn’t it so wonderful when it does work? It’s such a pity there aren’t more movies like that…

By: Na

Na — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 07:07:15 +0000

Hi Susan!
Chemistry between characters is essential and even more so in romantic comedies because a couple’s bantering is what will appeal to me. Seeing how a couple interact, get along or clash is what connects me to them. In rom-cons I like to see a natural and effortless dialogue that is witty, fun and believable. If the funny scenes are forced it comes across awkward and not all that funny. I want to see some tension because then when the funny scenes happen they are all the more appreciated. I like to see instant attraction. That doesn’t always mean they’ll get along right away since i t can be a case of opposite attracts but the chemistry is there and builds as they get to know each other.

By: Susan Fox

Susan Fox — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 00:36:08 +0000

Thanks, Dani. It seems to me that the two fundamaental principles of commercial fiction are character arc (growth) and emotion. Most romance novels have those – and yet a lot of rom-coms do fall short on one or both.

By: Dani Harper

Dani Harper — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 16:23:59 +0000

Wonderful blog and bang on the mark — I agree with all of your points. I look for a story where the characters genuinely learn and grow. Most rom coms fail miserably at this.