and resume down on Melissa's desk then turned to go back to the outer office. "And great biceps. Wrapped up in those big arms you definitely wouldn't feel the chill. Hot stuff."

Melissa feigned a reprimand and reminded Carla they were casting a supporting role based on experience, not looks. She picked up the resume. "Give me two minutes to glance this over then send him in."

"Take three. You need lipstick."

"Like I care."

"You'll care."

In example two, we know three things about the characters right off the bat: Melissa is the heroine; she has an easy, friendly relationship with her employee, Carla, and she's about to meet a good-looking man, Garret Archer, who will likely be her romantic interest. The fact that it's cold and windy outside becomes secondary and may or may not play into the story as it progresses.

That's a lot of information for the beginning of your book, but if you keep this idea firmly in mind, your story will move along at a rapid pace and your readers will be onboard for the ride.

Remember, the romance novel is about one thing: the romance. Everything else that happens in the story is a sub-plot of the romance. You're taking the reader on a journey into the world of love and passion; the plot is simply the vehicle. Romance readers want you to move the story along, not stop and let it languor. Every time you stop your story to describe something, you're stopping your vehicle and the reader could get off. Keep it moving.

Your goal is to keep readers turning the pages, so keep the dialogue engaged, pack your story with emotion, develop lively and complex characters, and promise a happy ending. Never forget - your first chapter is the exposition of your book; It's your only chance to snag the reader for the entire ride.

Learn more about this author, Meggie Hardy.
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