Step 3: Writing the First Draft

Writing the first draft of a romance novel can be both thrilling and intimidating, especially for new writers. This is where your story starts to take shape, and you get to explore the world you’ve imagined. But it’s easy to get lost if you don’t have a plan. In this blog post, I’ll share some tips and advice to help you through the process of writing your first draft, especially if you’re a romance author. So, let's talk about how to get that steamy story out of your head and onto the page.

What to Do?

1. Set Realistic Writing Goals

   • One of the most important things you can do when starting your first draft is to set achievable goals. Don’t pressure yourself to write the entire novel in one go. Instead, break it down into smaller tasks—like writing a certain number of words each day or week. This will help you maintain steady progress without feeling overwhelmed. Maybe aim for 500 words a day or 3000 words a week. Consistency is key!

2. Decide on Your Trope and Sub-Trope

   • In romance writing, tropes are common themes that readers love. Whether it’s a “friends to lovers” story or “enemies to lovers,” choosing a trope gives your story direction. It also helps you connect with readers who are drawn to specific themes in romance. Once you have your main trope, think about a sub-trope that can add depth and uniqueness to your story. (I have created a Printable Romance Tropes Writing Planner Checklist in my Romance Writer’s Kit downloadable materials which can help you here. The link to Download is at the end of this post.)

3. Have a Proper Storyline

   • Before you start writing, it’s essential to have a basic outline of your story. You don’t need to know every detail, but having a clear idea of the beginning, middle, and end will keep you on track. An outline will also help you avoid writer’s block by giving you a roadmap to follow as you write. (I have created a Printable Romance Novel Outline Planner in my Romance Writer’s Kit downloadable materials which can help you here.)

4. Get Inspiration from Various Sources

   • Inspiration can come from many places—books, movies, music, or even your own experiences. As a romance writer, surround yourself with things that inspire you to create love stories. When you feel stuck, revisit these sources (reading/watching movies in the genre you are writing) to spark new ideas and keep your creativity flowing. Love is all around - use it!

5. Read in Your Genre

   • Reading other romance novels is crucial for any aspiring romance author. It helps you understand the genre’s conventions and what readers expect. You’ll also learn from other authors' successes and mistakes, which can be useful for your own writing.

What Not to Do?

1. Don’t Edit Your First Manuscript

   • Your first draft isn’t supposed to be perfect. It’s just about getting your ideas on paper. Resist the urge to edit as you go. Editing too early can slow down your progress and stifle your creativity. Focus on finishing the draft first, and worry about polishing it later. The first draft is about getting the story down, not making it pretty.

2. Don’t Skip Writing for More Than a Week

   • Consistency is key when writing a novel. If you take long breaks, it’s easy to lose momentum and forget where you left off. Even if you can only write a few hundred words a day, it’s important to keep the habit going. This will help you stay connected to your story and maintain the flow of your writing.

3. Don't Compare Your First Draft to Published Books

   • Remember, those polished novels have been through multiple edits. Your messy first draft is perfectly normal!

4. Don't Worry About Word Count (Too Much)

   • While it's good to have a target, don't stress if your romance novel isn't hitting the "standard" length yet. You can add or cut later.

What to Take Care Of?

1. Character Development

   • Your characters are the heart of your romance novel. Take the time to develop them fully—what are their desires, fears, and motivations? How do they change and grow throughout the story? Well-developed characters make your romance more engaging and relatable. (I have created a workbook on Creating Strong Character Foundations and Character Outline Planner in my Romance Writer’s Kit downloadable materials which can help you here.)

2. Pacing and Emotional Tension

   • Romance novels thrive on pacing and tension. Make sure your story has a good rhythm, with moments of conflict and resolution that keep readers hooked. The build-up to the romantic relationship should feel natural, and the tension between characters should be palpable. (I have created a workbook on Spark and Sizzle between Leads in Romance Novels - PART 1 which can help you here.)

3. Dialogue

   • Dialogue is one of the most powerful tools in romance writing. It’s how your characters express their feelings and build their connection. Make sure your dialogue feels authentic and reflects the personalities of your characters. Avoid clichés and ensure that every conversation moves the story forward.

So, I am repeating the main points 👇👇👇.

Remember:

• Don't miss writing for more than a week. It's easier to keep going than to restart.

• Your first draft doesn't need to be perfect. It just needs to exist.

• Read widely in the romance genre to understand trends and reader expectations.

• Having a proper storyline before you start can save you from writer's block later.

Final Thoughts

Writing your first romance novel is an exciting journey. It's about capturing that spark, that flutter of the heart when two people fall in love. Don't let perfectionism hold you back. Get that first draft down, no matter how messy. You can't edit a blank page, but you can turn a rough first draft into a swoon-worthy romance novel.

So, grab your laptop or notebook, imagine those longing glances and stolen kisses, and start writing. Your readers are waiting to fall in love with your story!

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Stay tuned for Step 4: Steps to Follow After Completing the First Draft.

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ROMANCE WRITER’s KIT

(If you want to pay by UPI, reply back to this email or email me at (madhuritamse86@gmail.com) or send me a DM on my Instagram @madhuritamse)