Creating romance that captivates the readers is all about the play of emotional tension against suspense. In fact, the best love stories will make readers feel the intensity of every moment- they get pulled into the inner conflicts the characters are having and the obstacles that threaten to keep them apart. Here are three ways to craft a romance filled with both emotional tension and suspense:
Build Emotional Barriers between Characters
Romance thrives tension, and one way to achieve that is through providing the characters with emotional walls they must break over. It might be past trauma, a desire not to be vulnerable, or conflicting goals. All these barriers will keep the reader eagerly wondering if the characters are going to be able to break them down so they can be together.
Introduce External Conflicts
While inner conflicts play the drama of emotional tension, external factors bring in the suspense that creates support for a gripping read. Whether it’s the danger of enemies, do-or-die missions, or life-threatening challenges, all these moments may drive the couple together, or push them apart. These are moments of heightened emotional stakes, making the romance more thrilling.
Every Choice Counts
A good romance story is all about reading instances where every decision a character makes must hold the potential to change everything. And also bring the tension of the weight each decision involves, as readers wonder what will happen next and whether the couple will survive their way or not.
NORA’S ROGUES: An Interstellar Alliance Book 2 by Judi Lloyd is a page-turner that will surely take romance, emotional suspense, and intergalactic suspense to higher levels while keeping the readers glued to the book towards the climax. Do grab your best reads today!