When discussing Romance novels, one of the most unanimous pet-peeves is Insta-love. Two characters who start professing their love for one another right off the bat tends to leave a bad taste in people's mouths.
Me? I'm not really bothered by that. In paranormal romance, we're dealing with a good amount of pre-ordained and fated-mate type plots. So, love at first sight, I can handle.
What does get my eyes rolling is Insta-sex. I just hate it when two characters meet and immediately HAVE to jump each other's bones. How annoying is it when every thought, no matter what else is going on around a character, is directed and controlled by the lower half of their bodies? I can understand an instant physical attraction but when normal self-control is thrown out the window, I'm tempted to just close the book and walk away.
I was just reminded of this while reading a book a few days ago (I'll keep this anonymous). Not only does sex become the sole focus when the two main characters meet (first few pages of the book, mind you) but, this sexual tension develops while they're being attacked by aliens. Aliens!!!
Grotesque, scary aliens are literally trying to kill them and they are wondering about each other's junk. And, once they escape the aliens (completely bloody and bruised) they continue to be focused on how they can get in each other's pants. It's not, "oh my God, the aliens will be back soon and you need medical attention." It's, "we have a few moments to kill before the aliens come back, let's go take a shower together."
I'm sorry but I just don't see why this is even remotely believable. Even in the fantasy genre. I'm pretty sure if creatures were trying to gut and kill me, sex would be the absolute last thing on my mind. And, if a well-built, good looking man showed up to rescue me...great! But, my immediate priorities would still be focused on safety and self-preservation.
I'm all about a steamy, mind-blowing romance. But, there's a time and place for everything. I just wish some authors would give their reader's a little credit and at least try to wait a believable bit before the main characters start obsessing about sex.
What do you think?
