Writing in a vacuum

This may be obvious to the more experienced authors who tune in to my blog. But since I witnessed what I’m about to tell you in person. I must speak.

A romance cannot be written in a vacuum. A romance is not different than any other genre in regards to the rules for writing. What I witnessed was an experienced writer say that a sidekick/sage/mentor/guide/expert/best friend/enemy turned friend to the heroine (or the hero) wasn’t necessary. “What’s the point?”

So, now you know, as if you didn’t already. Next, make that secondary character memorable. Just as the hero and heroine have faults or flaws, so must the secondaries. All the better, if their quirks are humorous. Near the top of anybody’s list of desirable qualities one wants in a mate or friend is a sense of humor. Humor entertains and your job as a writer is not only to show us a great story but entertain along the journey of discovery.
If you are walking down a path never before taken, you'll notice the environment in detail. You'll also note the people you meet and how they'll help or hinder you achieving your goal. Expect the unexpected just as you would in a mystery. Twist.