FAQs

Have you done all the things you write about in your novels?

Hahaha –I write murder-mysteries too, but no one asks if I’ve ever killed anyone for research! Quite honestly, there is a problem with readers being unable to separate the writer from the work, especially in erotica. If you knew me personally, it would help. But I do use my husband as a practice victim, the poor dear!

Is writing about sex difficult?

I’ll go out on a limb here and say that sex is one of the most difficult subjects to write about well. I’m in the learning stages myself. The author’s goal (as in every other aspect of the novel) is to involve the reader without going over the top. With erotic romance, there is a definite “ick” factor to consider. The difference between sensual and gross is only a few poorly chosen words. When you’re involved in writing, it’s easy to cross that divide. That’s where critique readers and editors help out. Generally, if you cringe when you re-read, it probably falls into the “ick” category.

Couldn’t you write a story without using “those words?”

Currently, publishers are interested in seeing a lot of sexual detail with no flowery euphemisms. As opposed to calling a penis “a manly shaft,” or some such nonsense, you’re expected to call it a penis, or a familiar slang-ism such as cock or prick. For some, that’s a problem. If you’re an author who isn’t comfortable with graphic description of sex, you probably shouldn’t be writing erotica. For the reader, however, many romance publishers have different lines based on degrees of sexual heat. If I chose to write for one of the “milder” lines, I’d adjust my vocabulary accordingly.

How is porn different from erotic romance?

Porn is designed to bring sexual release to its (primarily male) readers—it’s basically masturbation material. The sex is graphic and repetitive. Plot and character development are minimal. Ten-minute reading segments end in a “comeshot,” just like in a porn film. That’s the point at which the reader should achieve (his) orgasm.

Erotic romance is very different. Catering to a mostly female readership, the stories are more like fantasy fodder. Ideally, the reader gets swept into the characters’ lives and problems--the connection is definitely emotional. Sex scenes are designed for a woman to use as inspiration, rather than actual practice. Sensual stories just make you feel sexier, and that brings positive benefits to all areas of your life. Erotic heroines are empowered, self-assured women who have healthy appetites for all aspects of their lives, including sex. Even if we could never act like them, it’s fun to read and imagine.

Are there any subjects you consider off limits in erotic romance?

Yes, many, and most publishers have a taboo list as well. You won’t see underage sex, non-consensual sex, bestiality, or any deviate, dangerous practices. I won’t go into detail about these. My own comfort level allows me to write stories that involve a man and a woman, with a committed relationship at the end. I’d certainly be open to tasteful gay/lesbian, mild bondage, or multiple-partner stories; I just haven’t come up with any ideas yet!