With the much anticipated 2012 Medical Romance Fast Track approaching, last week fabulous author Fiona Lowe gave you her top ten tips on how to write a Medical Romance. Today the Harlequin Medical team is offering you their ten top tips for creating and sharpening that all important first chapter to showcase your story and your writing talent. Here they are...
Hook the reader in from the get go - start at an interesting point a point of change, an exciting or dramatic moment.
Immerse your reader in the medical world whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of an inner-city hospital or perhaps the gentle cosiness of a village practice, take the reader right into the medical world of your characters right from the get- go. The setting is integral to the story in any Medical Romance.
Choose your set-up carefully and be aware of why you are using it. Make sure its the most realistic and engaging way of bringing your characters together whilst avoiding clich'es. Bring fresh takes and new twists to traditional storylines - carve your own unique niche.
Sow the seeds and take us right into your characters emotional conflicts All romances need conflict and tension between the hero and heroine otherwise, there isnt a story! Internal conflict should be your main focus. In Meds there is room for professional conflict, as extra layering too, just dont make it the centre of your story. Emotional development between your characters is a big part of the promise to Medical Romance readers.
Focus on the characters; explore their reactions to the situation and make sure they are totally convincing and captivating. Engage your reader and their emotions! Remember, our books are character-driven, dont get lost in the plot!
Captivate readers with your gorgeous, dedicated hero and your smart and lovely heroine - get them on the page together quickly and show the chemistry and the dynamic between them. That immediate spark that makes the reader know they are going to fall madly in love!
Your heroine She could be a nurse, a doctor, a physiotherapist the list is endless! She could be really feisty and smart with a heart of gold, or warm and, lovely. Just make sure she is vivid, captivating and really well developed someone your reader can really identify with. She doesnt need to be perfect just perfect for your heroshe can have flaws just like the rest of us!
Your hero - The hero must sweep the reader - as well as the heroine - off her feet! Perhaps hes a doctor, a neurosurgeon or a paediatrician. He can be a sexy rebel, a loving dad, or tortured and meltingly brooding. He has integrity and an honourable character and his strength of character, sheer determination and passion have seen him rise to the top of the medical profession.
When creating your hero and heroine on the page, show the reader (rather than tell them) who they are!. Reveal your key characters gradually and subtly - through actions, interaction together and with others, and insight into their thoughts and feelings.
Secondary characters have a place in a Medical Romance - just keep them in check - some insight into the medical community in which your hero and heroine works is part and parcel of the series however, keep secondary characters to a minimum and ensure your story is focussed on your hero and heroine and the development of their conflict and relationship. When considering a scene with a secondary character, ask yourself, does this further my hero and heroines story? In a 50,000 word story you dont have time to stray off the point!
So there you have it. If you havent already started - time to get stuck into your story. We cant wait for you to sweep us into your characters worlds. Good luck!
Fast-track submissions must be received between 1st and 7th June 2012 (12.00 midnight BST, British Summer Time)
From the Harlequin/Mills & Boon Medical Romance team
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