Marriage of Convenience

I have been having a wonderful conversation with a Historical Fan on myspace concerning the finer points of marriage of convenience novels. I use to believe that people read these books for the thrill of the chase, the capture, and the final victory. This reader opened my eyes to an entirely new aspect of these novels.

She loves to read marriage of convenience novels because she likes reading about a man who appreciates his wife. Now, I know that most Scot Historicals have a woman come in and start 'fixing things up' for the Laird. Of course -- he hates it at first, but does come to realize the wisdom in her ways. Julie Garwood was a master at this.

I just read Elaine Coffman's The Bride of Black Douglas, so I could understand what my friend was talking about. Robert Douglas never ranted and raved about 'his authority' when Meleri reassigned all the servants to a task they would like to do, and improving the productivity of the keep. Of course, I do not remember him saying thank you either.

I think I am going to be more aware of this as I write my new book. I will also go back and tweak The Pledge. There are a few places where Calum can be a little more appreciative.