Our little city got a little burst of excitement yesterday–almost as much fun as when Sir Paul visited in 2014. Instead of a giant musical show at the U of Montana football stadium, Bernie Sanders crowded into a smallish park in the center of downtown. (Picture is of the park from the other side of the river. Yes, those are surfers.)
What does that have to do with a romance novel?
Your mind goes to politics. Mine goes to romance.
What if…
- Two people meet at the rally.
- They belong to different parties, but their views are more alike than opposite.
- They fall in love in spite of the differences.
(By the way, there’s a real-life couple in this situation: James Carville and Mary Matalin.)
Now I have a premise for a romance story with all my favorite elements, including the opportunity to discuss social issues. If you read my work, you’ll know that I get a thrill out of bringing up difficult topics. You see, I hope every day that we can go back to some kind of civil discourse, rather than the constant bickering which gets in the way of solving very real problems, like immigration.
“In contrast, some may take offense to the emotionally charged topic of undocumented citizenship being broached; however Ms. Dawes does a superb job in presenting and blending both sides of the debate to her characters.” ~ Stephanie Lodes, InD’tale Magazine.*
These topics can be broad-reaching and political, or up close and personal. The heroine of the book has a child on the autism spectrum. This brings very real problems to the mother for a long time. I was at a meeting today where someone asked for references to help her find work for her son. He’s high on the autism spectrum and graduating high school.
At that point, is it a personal problem or a social problem? However you define it, it can be difficult for a single mom in that situation to find an understanding and loving partner. It’s the stuff of romance novels.
There are times I wish I could write light, frothy novels full of silly situations and laughter. I’m afraid I’m not quite built like that. The closest I’ve come was Sweet Montana Christmas, and that was difficult enough.
If you enjoy a romance novel that moves into topics that make you think, I invite you to come along for the ride. And I’d love to know what you think.
This book, California Sunrise, is up for a RONE award given by InD’Tale Magazine. Voting in this category will take place next week which is when the link will be available. I hope you’ll register on the site and vote. Thanks in advance!
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