Pack Rules
I love paranormal romance. Nalini Singh and Kresley Cole books got me back into reading after being swamped in my kids' diapers. And I've started noticing -because of my analytical brain there are rules. Eight that I've counted so far. Here they are.
1. The Scent of Love
In the shifter world, scent is more than just a physical attribute. It's an invisible thread that binds. When a shifter wants their mate to carry their scent, it's not just about possession; it's about protection, connection, and an unspoken declaration of love. As writers, our challenge is to convey this deep, instinctual bond through words, crafting scenes where the mere scent of a lover can convey a world of emotion and belonging.
2. The Dance of Destiny
The mating dance is a narrative goldmine. It's a ritual steeped in ancient traditions, a series of actions and emotions that lead our characters to the inevitable realization of their bond. Here, we can explore the tension, the resistance, and the overwhelming pull of destined love. Use this dance to build your story's crescendo, layering each step with emotion and significance.
3. A Mark of Forever
The public display of affection, especially in the form of a bite or a mark, is a transformative moment for our characters. It's a turning point that signifies permanence. As authors, we must handle this moment with care, ensuring that it resonates with the gravity it deserves. This mark is not just a physical manifestation but a symbol of eternal commitment, visible to all.
4. From Lone Wolf to Belonging
Our lone wolf heroes often embark on a journey of finding their true family. In your stories, let this journey reflect the universal quest for belonging and love. Show how the love of a mate and the acceptance within a new pack can heal and transform the most solitary of creatures.
5. The Hierarchy of the Heart
The clearly defined roles within the pack provide a framework for our stories. They set the stage for conflicts, alliances, and relationships. Use these roles to create a dynamic world, but remember, at the heart of every role, be it alpha or healer, is a character with desires, fears, and dreams.
6. The Primal Claim
"Mine!" This primal growl is more than a claim; it's a proclamation of love in its most raw and unguarded form. In our writing, let's explore the layers beneath this possessiveness. It's not just about claiming someone; it's about declaring a willingness to protect, cherish, and fight for the one they love.
7. The Dance of Dominance and Care
While dominance is a key trait in our shifter heroes, it's the balance with tenderness and vulnerability that creates a truly compelling character. As writers, our task is to weave this complexity into our heroes, making them both formidable and endearing.
8. The Bond Beyond the Physical
Consider the mate bond, a connection that transcends the physical realm. It's an invisible, unbreakable link that can add a layer of depth and conflict to your stories.
As authors of Paranormal Romance, we are not just storytellers; we are architects of dreams, builders of worlds where love knows no bounds, and where the wild heart finds its home. Embrace these rules, but also let your imagination soar beyond them. Create worlds that captivate, characters that resonate, and love stories that linger long after the last page is turned.
Did you love this chat about paranormal romance rules for werewolves? Then you'll love the podcast I'm doing with my book bestie L Penelope. On our new podcasts Ink and Magic where we're breaking down Nalini Singh's PNR bestselling Psychangling series.