When I told people my debut novel, ‘A Proclivity To Prurience,’ was classed as ‘Erotica’, many called it porn – maybe in jest, maybe not – but why? Many films and television programmes today contain ‘adult scenes’ and ‘strong language’, yet retain their ‘drama’ or ‘fiction’ status – is Game of Thrones classed as porn? Yet a few sex scenes – sometimes a few more – and a few choice words and a fascinating book becomes erotica and loses its respectability. An erotic novel can be just as dramatic as the next thriller and the days of cringe-worthy metaphors are, thankfully, way behind us so don’t dismiss this exciting genre and get acquainted with the prurient Abbie and Joe!
Cheryl Butler
- It Can Still Have A Good Plot: Just because the general theme is already established, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a gripping storyline that may set it apart from other erotic novels.
- Your Characters Can Be Anyone: Don’t stick to a stereotypical style, mix your characters up and make them a little more believable. We all want a little fantasy but don’t make anyone too perfect and depress you readers.
- Avoid Clichés: Erotic fiction, like double-glazing salesmen, has a reputation for formulaic language, so avoid it and surprise readers with your grasp of the English language (or your ability to use a Thesaurus!).
- Don’t Be Afraid: Actors say sex scenes are always a little awkward and the same could be said for authors, but sex is as much a part of life as sleep, work and stress so allow your imagination a little freedom to entertain.
- People Will Assume It’s About You: With your first novel, more people than not will assume you’re either writing about yourself or your fantasies and no amount of denial will persuade them otherwise. Either accept it and laugh about it or don’t write erotic fiction!
- Don’t Be Put Off By The Genre: Erotic fiction is often seen as less worthy than many other genres, but there are good and bad books in all. Write well and change that view.
- Don’t Take It Too Seriously: Have fun with your writing and try different styles. Don’t stick to any rules and allow your readers to be amused by your characters from time to time – sex doesn’t always have to be dark and moody.
- Be Consistent: If your character has a particular taste, don’t change it halfway through. If you want to add another aspect to their personality, don’t just dump it on your reader and expect them to accept it; feed it in subtly earlier in the story to make it more believable.
- Shock Your Readers: If they’re reading erotic fiction, it’s safe to assume they’re not easily shocked so a little unexpected twist in your storyline will serve you well.
- Be Proud Of Your Work: Everyone you know will read your novel – friends, family, work-colleagues – with or without your knowledge so be proud. Accept any comments as compliments or constructive criticism.
