posted on August 25, 2017 by Mary J. Williams

Let’s talk about…SEX

by Mary J. Williams

Warning: I apologize right up front. This blog post is not filled with wild sexual escapades. Read on at your own discretion.

One of the things I love most about romance novels is the wide variety of sub-genres. From the sweet and wholesome, to the dark side few of us are willing to traverse—either as writers or reader.

Literally, there is something for everyone.

Let me preface the rest of my post with my feelings on the subject. Morally, I have no objection to any form of consensual sex. Whatever floats your boat—so to speak.

When a book skates the meaning of consensual, that’s another topic for another day.

My journey as a romance novelist began on the spicy side, though never what I would call erotic. I’ve always enjoyed writing what my characters are feeling instead of the mechanics of the act. Again, a personal preference.

After a while, I noticed I wrote less and less about sex and more and more about the relationship. Why? Simple. I was bored. And if I’m bored writing a scene, I can’t expect my readers to stay engrossed?

I want my readers to be clear. The hero and heroine in my books are hot for each other. They have massive quantities of sex and enjoy every second. But in my books, you won’t read about every time they get naked. Most of the action—intercourse speaking—takes place off page. One longish love scene. A few minor make out sessions. Some major kisses. But graphic? Nope.

I’m happy to talk about sex. Or read about sex. And I’m thrilled to live in a world where there are so many books about people having sex. I’ve even delved into a few—happily.

But, I’ve settled into a place where my books are an emotional journey. I love dialogue. If I could write nothing but conversations between my characters, I would be like a bee in a field of clover. Heaven on earth. You’ll notice that my hero and heroine talk during sex. A lot. Funny. Irreverent. Intense. Sexy. They cover a lot of subjects while getting naked. And while in the act. And after.

Realistic? Probably not. But even though romance novels often reflect world subject matter, most of the time, I don’t expect—or want—reality. I want an over the top love story.  The end of the journey may always be the same happily ever after.

But the journey? Each author is—and should be—unique.

So, let’s talk about sex. And talk. And talk. And talk.

 

Mary J. Williams

Mary J. Williams

It Has Always Been My Dream To Write A Book

And I always knew it would be a romance novel. When I was a teenager I assumed my book would have a historical setting, those were the kinds of stories I liked best, I even grew my hair long so I could be like the heroines in my favorite stories. But now I see myself and my books in the present dealing with the joys and sorrows of our modern world. Harper Falls is a place my imagination dreamed up, but it is based in reality. I grew up in Washington State and went to school in a small town on the Columbia River. Harper Falls is that town but an idealized version. I hope you enjoy reading about the town and the characters.

And as much as I enjoyed telling their stories, these books are not the end of my dream but the beginning.

http://www.maryjwilliams.net

One thought on “Let’s talk about…SEX”

  1. Cynthia Netherton says:

    I’m surprised there are no comments here….especially with that title!

    I’d have to say talking before, during, and after sex IRL is the most important aspect of sex. Communication with your partner is key to any relationship. I don’t need to go into detail, but a quiet bedroom (or wherever) is a boring bedroom.

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