I like slow-burn romances with building tension between the characters. I like it when the situation doesn’t draw to an immediate conclusion, and insta-love is definitely not my thing. Still, sometimes slow is too slow, and the charm of building tension transforms into annoyance.
I read a book recently from my usual relaxing niche, a fantasy epic love story with a bit of conflict to get the blood flowing. The two main characters evolved from enemies to lovers (yup, another of my favourite tropes), and I was hoping for some relationship milestones somewhere in the middle of the book. Maybe not happy ever after, but at least the acknowledgement of affection. Nope, nil, zilch. You had to wait until the very last page to get the first kiss.
Another example is a recent TV drama I was very invested in, “Miss Scarlet and the Duke.” We are on the third season, I’m still waiting for the acknowledgement of affection, and worse, it looks like they will push the male character entirely away from our heroine. Now I’m ready to drop the series.
So my question to you is. How slow is too slow? When do you think is a suitable moment to ease the tension? Let me know in the comments. Let me know if you have any good recommendations for slow-burn fantasy romance where the main characters get down to business at the proper time. I’m looking for something new to read.
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I like about 3/4 of the book in to start up some tension if it’s a series, like a kiss or scenario with them up against the wall with some serious gazing. If it is a standalone, yeah you need to at least start it midway. I also can’t stand it if after waiting so long, the scene is a few sentences and it’s done (you made me wait for this)? Book suggestion- The Bargainer Series by Laura Thalassa.
Yes, I also like to enjoy a little happy ever after with a heavy cuddling on the side. Otherwise it just feels like a you ate whole dinner to find out there will be no desert.