Posts by Ines

Grand gestures are significant in romance as they heighten emotions and often bring about resolution or clarity in relationships. They’re powerful tools in a writer’s arsenal to amplify the romantic stakes. If you’re plotting scenes, integrating such moments can evoke strong reactions from readers. FIVE TYPES OF GRAND GESTURES Declaration: The gesture could be a…

The Dark Moment is a crucial scene in a romance novel, where the hero and/or heroine face a major obstacle or challenge that threatens to tear or keep them apart. This moment typically occurs towards the end of the story, and creates a sense of tension and conflict that the hero and/or heroine must overcome…

In the romance genre, the “fun and games” phase is pivotal, marked by budding connections and escalating stakes. 1. Buddy Love: From initial friction to deep bonds, relationships often mirror dynamics from buddy films like Lethal Weapon. 2. Romance Beats: Gwen Hayes highlights the crescendo of feelings, leading to relationship turning points. 3. Obstacles: Using…

The “Meet Cute” is the memorable first encounter in romance. Four key elements define this moment: 1. Setting: From Pride and Prejudice’s Victorian backdrop to Fifty Shades’ modern city. 2. Trope: Common narratives, like “opposites attract,” set the emotional stakes. 3. Attraction: Mutual allure as in Romeo and Juliet, or one-sided interest like in The…

Story beginnings vary, but empathy remains key. How do we make readers connect with our characters instantly?  1. Highlight Extraordinary Qualities: Think Buffy’s strength or Sherlock’s intellect. 2. Position in a Unique World: Like Mark Watney’s survival on Mars or the Gilmores in quirky Stars Hollow. 3. The “Save the Cat” Moment: Showcase a kind…

Genres like comedy, science fiction, and horror have their classics, but what defines quintessential romance? From iconic authors such as Kathleen E. Woodiwiss to modern BookTok faves, we delve into romance’s evolving heart. We’ll trace tropes from the ‘bodice ripper’ era, understand the enduring allure of ‘enemies to lovers’, and see how societal views on…

Ines Johnson is having a bit of a breakdown… so she’s going on summer break! Want to learn more about pacing, try my courses Page Turner Pacing Course https://ineswrites.com/PTP Writing Dirty: https://ineswrites.com/writingdirty Writing Sweet: https://ineswrites.com/writingsweet

Grab your copy of my Give Me a Beat worksheet to help you craft your next amazing love story! https://ineswrites.com/give-me-a-beat-docx/   Want to learn more about pacing, try my courses Page Turner Pacing Course https://ineswrites.com/PTP   Youtube:  

These episode is all about the Romance Beats. Want to make sure readers fall in love with your love story? Then be sure and follow these seven beats! ORDINARY WORLD MEET CUTE ADHESION FUN AND GAMES Dark Moment Grand Gesture HEA or HFN   Want to learn more about pacing, try my courses Page Turner…

Mysteries and Thrillers are similar in beats with a few differences. Check out this episode to get clued into the mystery beats. THE CRIME ADHESION TO THE CASE INITIAL THEORY THREE SUSPECTS AND A KILLER REMINDER OF DANGER HERO IN PERIL (ALL IS LOST) SPEECH IN PRAISE OF THE VILLAIN/WHO DUNNIT RESOLUTION   Want to…