Earlier this week we gave some top tips on writing a historical romance. Today’s post by Kayla King, brought to you from our archives, shines light on a particular subgenre of historical romance that we all know and love!
Popular long before the fabulous Outlander series’ TV adaptation created a resurgence in the subgenre, Scottish Highlander romances have always been a staple of historical romance. Let’s try to pin down some of that ineffable Scottish charm, shall we?
1. Major crossover appeal—I know a number of people who don’t read much historical but have gone all in on Highlander romance. For many, this iconic subgenre is the gateway into fully fledged romance obsession.
2. Points in history that are fraught with peril and intrigue. If the stakes seem high in a Highlander romance, it’s a reflection of actual history. The Jacobite rebellions created a culture of standing up against impossible odds, and I don’t know about you, but I’m always a fan of the underdog.
3. Beautiful country that’s deeply romantic all on its own—both in historical romance and to this very day. Rugged, breathtaking, ethereal…a perfect setting for a love that transcends time, don’t you think?
4. And it’s that untamed country that creates these fearless alpha heroes. Regardless of their social status, there’s an underlying sense of passion and determination about these men. What’s the word I’m looking for? Oh, yes. Pride. And pride can be incredibly sexy.
5. Kilts. Kilts. KILTS.
Enough said.
Tell us what you love about Scottish Highlander romances in the comments below! And check out these delicious Highland reads, available this month from Harlequin Historical!
2 replies on “Five Reasons to Love a Highlander Romance”
That first gif tho…
Am I the only one whose gaze went right to a key area hidden in shadows? Wow. LOL #romancewriterissues #morekiltsplease #darlingjaime
So did mine, Traci….!
Comments ( 7 )
I spent the entire shutdown working. Had no time to wind down. I didn’t see my son much when school shutdown. My one co worker was told to stay home for 3 weeks so I picked up her hours. This year has been really crappy.
Ugh, Janell. Here’s hoping the rest of your summer is better.
Thanks for the info, Carol! Everyone is different in how they deal with the shutdown! I stay at home all the time since I don’t work so I haven’t been too effected but my shopping and errands sure have been effected!
Valri, I’ve been doing most of my shopping online. My local Target is still low on some items – mostly cleaning supplies. Grocery store is pretty much back to normal. Most of the dining in our town is outdoor. I can’t imagine have school-age kids!
Wow–getting your creative process on track must have been daunting–especially with “extra-large dog” glad to have you home. You don’t like coffee–I love coffee and have enjoyed my fortifying 2 cups in the morning even more than usual! How as COVID affected your story lines and characterizations? Best Wishes for all releases!
Interesting question, Virginia. You’ll have to tell me if the tone of my “COVID” books changed any! LOL
Life has changed so much! My dad passed Feb 2. The assisted living facility my folks were at went into hardcore lockdown the beginning of March. Mom couldn’t leave her apartment for 4 months! She was on the third floor, Will be 89 in two months & doesn’t use the phone. My husband and I remodeled the lower level completely and moved her in with us July 1. What a life change and difficult transition for the 3 of us! But we’re working thru it!