This is Ink & Intrigue—the blog where romance ignites, secrets simmer, and every love story hides a twist. I’m your blog host, Sheila Kell, romance author and lover of plot twists, slow burns, and morally questionable book boyfriends.

So you’ve decided to write a romance novel—welcome to the most swoon-worthy, heart-racing corner of fiction! Whether you’re dreaming up enemies-to-lovers banter or a high-stakes romantic suspense, here are a few simple steps to get started:

1. Read Widely in the Genre

Before you write, read. Devour everything from sweet small-town love stories to action-packed romantic thrillers. Notice what makes you turn the page—and what makes your heart skip.

2. Know Your Tropes

Romance readers love their favorite setups: friends-to-lovers, fake dating, and forbidden romance. Pick one that excites you and twist it in your own unique way.

3. Create Characters Readers Will Root For

Your leads should feel real—flawed, funny, fierce, and vulnerable. A good rule of thumb? If you’d grab coffee with them (or yell at them when they mess up), they’re ready for the page.

4. Balance Emotion and Conflict

Romance isn’t all candlelit kisses. Conflict drives the story forward—internal doubts, external obstacles, or villains with grudges. The deeper the struggle, the sweeter the happily-ever-after.

5. Embrace the HEA (or HFN)

Romance promises a happy ending—always. Whether it’s a forever vow or a hopeful new beginning, give your readers the payoff they came for.

Bottom line: Writing romance isn’t about perfect prose. It’s about creating chemistry, building tension, and making readers believe love is worth every risk. Start small, trust your characters, and let yourself fall in love with the story as you write it.

Thanks for joining me on Ink & Intrigue, where romance and suspense go hand in hand.

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Want more behind-the-scenes content, writing tips, or a peek into my books? Visit sheilakell.com or follow me on social media at @sheilakellbooks.

Until next time—keep writing, keep swooning, and remember: every heart has a secret.