For some time now, there has been this push to include a romance subplot in books. And I've heard an ill-informed push that says, "Sex sells."
But I've read far too many published stories where the romantic subplot failed to integrate properly into the overall plot. And the number of sex scenes that I've read (including in published works) where I questioned the need for the scene altogether is higher than it should be.
In my work as a developmental editor and writing coach, I'm watching new writers crumble as they try to tackle romance subplots and open-door sex scenes. And I am seeing their stories suffer as a consequence.
It's time to tackle this issue head on and highlight why romantic subplots and open-door sex scenes could be working against you, not for you.
