I don’t read romance. Can’t stand the genre. I’ve tried to read historical fiction with romance in it and romantic suspense, thinking the history or the mystery would compensate for the romance. It never works. The romance either bores me or seems so unrealistic that I can’t push through to the end.
So here are five non-traditional suggestions on how to use Valentine’s Day as writing inspiration.
Junior High Dance
In junior high, most boys are finally realizing that girls aren’t icky, but they aren’t sure what to do about this revelation. A dance on Valentine’s Day following several characters as they negotiate the unknown territory of romance presents many opportunities for both comedic and dramatic plots.
New Love/ Old Love
An elderly, married couple help an engaged or newlywed couple having troubles on Valentine’s Day. For the elderly couple to have more impact on the younger one, I think they shouldn’t be related to them. The couples can be neighbors. The two very different milestones in theses couples’ lives offer great contrast for storytelling.
Bittersweet Love
Write a story following a widower or widow experiencing his or her first Valentine’s Day since the death of the spouse.
Humorous Love
Write about a married couple trying to enjoy a romantic date night and being constantly frustrated with interruptions.
Bad Valentine’s Day
If you really want to stand Valentine’s Day on its head, have a couple break up on Valentine’s Day. That sounds so sad, I’m almost sorry I suggested it. But if the break up kicks off the story, then the uncouple have a chance to find new relationships or become reconciled.
Now it’s your turn. How would you put a new spin on Valentine’s Day as writing inspiration?
I like all the suggestions. Like you, I’m not a fan of straight romance books. A thread of romance is fine if it’s believable and G-rated. And I’ve found my idea of G-rated isn’t everyone’s idea of G-rated. And that’s the main reason I don’t like them.
I found most of the characters either boring or too perfect to be true.