Reader Expectation of the Elements of Paranormal Romance Novels

So many novels filled with paranormal elements, so little time!

No one wants to miss out on a good escape, or a thrilling adventure. Plus, there’s so much you can learn, as an author, by reading well crafted books.

When it comes to paranormal romance novels, as a reader, I’m happiest when the world is well-crafted, the rules of that world make sense, and the good guys win.

That really applies to my needs from all novels – how better to enjoy escape reading – but I’ll keep the focus on paranormal romances for now.

Setting, or world, as an element of paranormal romance, can be just about anything for me as a reader. Futuristic, present day, even historical. But it has to engage me on every level.

I want to reel from the view – mountain, space, or sea, recognize a famous building or district, and add it to my 1001 places to visit before I die list. (That list is longer thanks to Nora Roberts, Kresley cole, Amanda Quick and Sherrilyn Kenyon)

Within that vivid world, I want the characters’ actions and decisions to make sense, based on their skills and powers. Nothing yanks me out of a story faster than a convenient loophole or safety net – for the good guys or the bad guys.

Even fiction, especially fiction (to paraphrase Mark Twain) has to balance. Not much of my daily reality balances – so having a balance of power in the book is part of enjoying the fantasy for me.

Of course I want to ride the roller coaster as characters struggle with new gifts, old baggage, or dark and edgy challenges. Conflict is story and part of the journey in a great read is watching the way characters grow to overcome the situation.

It’s an inspiring contrast to my reality to see characters strive toward a common goal, a better good, a higher purpose. And in a paranormal romance – the love storyline – as subplot or primary plot needs to move me.

I want the happily ever after that is so rare in the real world. You might say the happily-ever-after is the single most fantastic and most essential element of a paranormal romance novel.

Live the adventure!

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Regan Black

A USA Today bestselling author, wife, mom, coffee-addict, pet lover, not necessarily in that order. Subscribe to the monthly newsletter today and enjoy early access to new releases, exclusive prizes, and much more: http://www.ReganBlack.com/perks