  Romance/Love
This week: Themes in Military Romance Writing Edited by: StephBee  
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Since the start of the 20th Century, war has defined generations and their heroes. Let's explore themes in military romance writing and the heroes that warm our heart.
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Research
Not all of us have a military background, so it's important to research what branch of service you're going to use, the military job your hero might have, rank and structure, weapon, setting, and time period. War in World War I has different weapons and settings than today's modern conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan. There's one more thing to research that will capture an element of authenticity – camaraderie. It's something those who have served know very well, but it may be something you struggle with as a writer.
I'm prior Army. In 1987, we had a loudmouth in our unit, "Morera." Most of us couldn't stand him because he was loud, obnoxious, and crude. He used to give me a hard time until one of my friends, a female NCO, gave me some advice on how to put him in his place. Now I had just won Soldier of the Quarter for my Battalion and I stood in front of the assembled Battalion to be recognized. After the formation, Morera made a point to find me in the chow hall and in a loud voice announced: "I may not like you much, Cardin, but seeing you up there getting that award, you made me feel proud to be in the 583rd."
I may not have been his biggest fan either, but his smart comments tapered way off and after that, I knew that if the chips were down, I could count on Morera to come through.
Themes
One of the major themes in military/war romance writing is "Love on Hold." In the earlier wars, WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam, it's usually the woman waiting for her lover to return, facing almost insurmountable struggles as she raises their love child. With these last two wars, now you might hear of a man minding the children as the woman has been called up for active duty.
Another theme in military/war romance might involve unrequited love – a solider/airman/sailor/marine falls in love for a woman he can't have – an officer in love with a Geisha, perhaps, or a woman who loves a man who cares for someone else.
A favorite theme is "Forbidden Love." Think Romeo and Juliet and harboring a love in one's heart for a person you're supposed to believe is an enemy. I think the most popular example is that of a Nazi soldier in love with a Jewish woman, but certainly it can be applied throughout all the wars. In today's world, think of a "western" man in love with a Muslim woman. In the novel, "A Woman in Berlin," a German woman comes to care for a Soviet officer.
Military Heroes/Heroines
With Iraq and Afghanistan, there's not just "heroes," but "heroines," too. Both need to find and tap into an inner courage or bravery they might not have possessed before. A military hero has to reach down and find that courage in the face of life or death. There's an element of danger they have to deal with. Our hero has to be trustworthy, noble, honorable, assertive, and he/she has to be able to treat people from all walks of life with respect. Also, all romantic heroes/heroines, need to go on a journey that challenges them to change for the better.
What's your favorite military movie/TV show/mini series? Top Gun? The Final Countdown? Winds of War? North and South? Write in. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
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Here's some military themed stories for your enjoyment:
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This item number is not valid.
#1711572 by Not Available. |
| |  | The Letter (E)
A historically correct letter to a soldier in 1944 from his young girlfriend.
#1798528 by Poppy June  |
| | | War Bride (ASR)
The tale of a woman who loses her fiancé in WWII. I'd like some opinions, please!
#732511 by R.M. Baker |
| | | Invalid Item
This item number is not valid.
#695442 by Not Available. |
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Here's some feedback from my Romance/Love NL dated 16 OCT 2013 (Gothic Romance):
Ravyne Hawke
Gothic novels were my first love. I read every Victoria Holt novel in my town's library. My favorite gothic novelist is Dan Ross.. a male writer who wrote under many names like Marilyn (his wife's name) Ross, Clarissa Rose and W.E.D. Ross (his name). He wrote the Dark Shadows series books under Marilyn Ross. I am a collector of Gothic novels and have about 1000 of them. Nothing gives me more pleasure than opening one of those old novels, smelling the mustiness that only accentuates the mystery and thrill within.
Thanks for sharing!
Wow. This is a very helpful newsletter. Thank you.
You're welcome 
Briar Rose
I think we must mention "Jane Eyre" as a masterpiece of Gothic romance! And, since I can't read "Jane Eyre" all the time, I go to Victoria Holt when I need a Gothic romance hit! :) Enjoyable newsletter!
I agree - "Jane Eyre" certaintly captures the ambience of gothic romance.
Quick-Quill 
I just began to update my Goodreads profile. I smiled when I read this, I just listed all the Mary Stewart, Victoria Holt and Phyllis Whitney books I read all through the '70s and 80s. I loved the Mystery in the castles and the romance. Still very good reading!!
Ah, the classics of gothic romance! I agree, still great reading today.
StephBee is a 911 Dispatcher for LAPD. Her latest release is "Sunrise Over Brasov," a paranormal romance with werewolves, vampires, and witches, set in 1880's Romania. 5 Stars, Reader's Favorites Reviews |
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Romance/Love: November 13, 2013 Issue [#5988]
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