by Rosemary Hayes from the September 30, 2024 issue.
Tagline: En route to make her final Home Meals delivery of the day, Rachel finds herself caught in the rain. It seems not only raindrops fall on her that afternoon, but also a chance at love when kind-eyed Callum offers her an umbrella and a hand.
Observations: Rosemary Hayes is a veteran Woman's World romance writer and this story is an example of why. I mean, the hero is the embodiment of chivalry! Who doesn't like the idea of being swept up in a strong man's arms? (It really should happen to us more than just on our wedding day. Maybe we can propose having a National Sweep Your Wife Up in your Arms Day or something.)
I noticed two reliable tropes in this story. First, we have the matchmaking grandfather. Second, there's the problem of the hero and heroine living too far apart. Tropes are sometimes thought of as cliche, but in Woman's World stories, they're what the readers want. They want that familiarity. Tropes are like comfort food, but in story form, so don't be afraid to use them.
Did you see any tropes in here that I missed?
Photo by Colin Brown via Flickr CC License
7 comments:
I really wasn't fond of him picking her up and carrying her. Unless she was hurt and couldn't walk, it seems awkward.
I'm iffy on the picking her up. My first thought it was cute, but then I realized he's a stranger and it bothered me. I think if I read this anywhere but Woman's World, I'd strongly object to it.
I did like that the Grandfather was setting them up. Kate, would this be considered 'a woman in jeopardy' trope? She did need rescuing from the rain.
I understand. It does seem a little overboard, but, hey, it's WW. LOL
Yeah, I guess it WOULD be woman in jeopardy! Good catch! Also, I agree, anywhere other than WW and it would seem over the top.
I had posted a reply saying I liked the story as well as the chivalry. My post disappeared. Why?
I don't know, Nanci. :( Sorry that happened to you.
Thanks, Kate.
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