  Romance/Love
This week: Expectations of the Romantic Hero Edited by: StephBee  
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Ah, the hero! We expect him to be strong, kind, loving, gentle, brave, but do we expect too much of him? What do you expect in your romantic hero? I thought I'd take a look at today's romantic hero and what we expect of him. |
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The romance novel as we know it today has only been around approximately 50 years, but in that time our expectations of a romantic hero have changed dramatically.
In the 1950's and 60's, Harlequin's pioneering marketing techniques put romance novels where female readers could find them: grocery stores and department stores. Heroes were the "alpha" male, the tough guy who solved the problem and asked questions later. In the 1960's, Victoria Holt brought the gothic hero to the forefront, an "omega" male who was moody and silent.
An "alpha" hero is a man who is dominant in every way. He's assertive, charming, and successful and lives to be admired by a crowd of his peers.
Nowadays, expectations for our heroes have changed, mostly due to our expectations regarding the heroine. Readers want a woman who possesses inner courage, strength, and is just as clever as the hero. Our romantic leading man has to adapt.
A "beta" hero is one who is just as charming and successful as the alpha, but he's also more playful, relaxed, and nurturing.
An "omega" hero is an interesting opposite of the alpha man. An omega hero cares little for recognition while the alpha man craves it. An omega hero is a bit of a loner, and while he does require support on occasion, he only needs a few intimate friends. The alpha thrives on the attention of a large crowd.
Readers expect a hero worthy of the heroine. He should be successful in whatever he does, and not be afraid to show a more vulnerable side (at least to her). The hero should possess an inner nobility that shines through despite any situation.
What kind of hero do you expect to read about when you pick up a novel? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Reference: On Writing Writing Romance, by Leigh Michaels, Published Jan 2007, Writers Digest Books.
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Awarded a Romance Merit Badge from my challenge mentioned in my JAN 2012 NL
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Feedback from my 8 FEB 2012 Newsletter
Annette 
I saw this list of cities on the Los Angeles Times this weekend. Inspiration? Or are those places really that romantic that they naturally end up in top ten lists of most romantic places? I agree with the list, at least for the places I visited. In the end, can't any place be romantic if the people visiting it want to make it so? Of course, those big destinations have a draw and postcard appeal and instant recognition to many people. Personally, I think Morrow Rock is one of the most romantic places to go.
LOL!! Coicidence. I compiled this list about a month ago.  I agree in that I think all the places mentioned embody a natural romantic ambience about them, but romantic places ultimately come from the heart. For me, Catalina Island off the coast of LA is a very romantic place. Thanks so much for sharing.
StephBee is a 911 Dispatcher with LAPD. Her latest release is "Twlight Over Moldavia," a paranormal romance with Desert Breeze. 5 Stars, Long & Short Reviews & Nominated for Book of the Month for March. |
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Romance/Love: March 07, 2012 Issue [#4911]
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