What’s In A Scene? Harlequin Authors Explain

“My favorite scene is the one where Kacey takes her own power back. She could die by venturing out to investigate a clue to the kidnapping she’d escaped, but death is at her door, and she isn’t going to die without doing all she can to stop the torment…and to protect her brother who is in trouble. I loved writing this scene because it made me feel powerful, too. Reminding me that I don’t have to live in fear.”—Tara Taylor Quinn

“My favorite scene in THEIR ACCIDENTAL HONEYMOON is when Param cooks for Rani even though they have recently hurt each other. Param’s mother has sensed the tension between them and insists that he not let Rani go hungry. I relished writing this scene because the tension between Param and Rani is in contrast to the love with which he cooks for her and the sheer fulfillment she gets from eating. Besides, who doesn’t want a handsome man cooking for them?”—Mona Shroff

“The scene I loved writing for Hope and Luca was after a paparazzo spills ice-coffee all over Hope’s cashmere top, just as she’s about to go straight into an important meeting. In the lift, Luca starts undoing the buttons on his shirt he plans to give her to change into. It’s the first moment that the tension between the two is so palpable – and hot – and poor Hope can’t take her eyes off him!”—Pippa Roscoe

“The final confrontation! As secrets are being revealed, Adam and Cynthia work so well as a team to get out of a very dangerous situation. The villain has everything planned in minute detail, but writing the main characters’ escape route came together better than I had expected! Adam and Cynthia’s personalities and ingenuity surprised me as they fought a ruthless drug dealer who had killed their colleagues.” —Charlene Parris

“My favorite scene is where Sawyer has to help Georgia get out of her dripping-wet wedding dress and is forced to cut the corset ties at the back. Exploring his physical reaction to her, while showing his deep down decency and kindness at the same time, shows what an incredible person Sawyer is—even when he doesn’t think so himself—while also illustrating how Georgia’s arrival threatens more than his much craved peace and quiet.”—Yvonne Lindsay

“I loved writing the power play in this scene between Police Sargeant Daria Gordon and US Marine Jake Fisher. Daria spots two men scuffling and rushes to the scene. One man runs away and a marine is left consoling a crying baby. Daria recognizes him as Jake Fisher, her best friend from childhood whose family moved away years ago. Shots are fired and Jake protects her, making Daria uncertain if she should be thankful or angry that he overpowered her.”—Loretta Eidson

“My favorite part of this novel occurs when Declan and Everleigh confront a potential threat, revealing deeper aspects of their personalities and fostering a moment of connection. The scene is suspenseful as Declan rushes to Everleigh’s aid, heightened by the glow of motion lights. Their ensuing exchange blends intensity and humor, showcasing chemistry and trust. Everleigh’s self-defense skills and the mystery surrounding one of the villians add depth, while the scene foreshadows challenges, deepening their connection and setting the novel’s tone.” —Jacquelin Thomas

“With MIAMI MARRIAGE PACT, I challenged myself to write the most romantic marriage of convenience story possible. The couple agrees to marry to access an inheritance unfairly withheld. I loved writing every scene, but the proposal in the pantry of the hero’s restaurant is my absolute favorite. It’s fun and sweet, and signals early on that Myles and Gigi are life partners, as well as savvy business partners.”—Nadine Gonzales

“My favorite scenes are when the characters get together to share a meal. It’s a time for male and female bonding while discussing staffing an all-female kitchen, which the men deem sexist. When the suggestion of offering high tea to hotel guests begins, the men argue they want meat sandwiches because cucumbers belong in salads and not in tiny sandwiches without the crusts. Food and lively conversations make this a fun read.”—Rochelle Alers

“In the opening scene, Mae escapes a glittering party by slipping into the back yard. At first she thinks she’s alone, but on other side of the hedge is Sebastian, having a late-night drink by his pool. They can’t see each other and don’t exchange names, but their conversation is (somewhat!) honest. It was so much fun to write a meet-cute where the characters couldn’t see each other and relied only on words and voice.”—Rachel Bailey

“My favorite scene in FALLING FOR THE ENEMY is a Halloween Party that Rory throws to bring together her family to meet Kit. They play a party game that my own family plays…the Post It Note game. I loved watching them grow from two teens scarred by their past into people I’d want to have as friends. As my last Harlequin Desire, I wanted this book to include things I’ve always loved about the line.”—Katherine Garbera