Guest Blogger, Nicole Jordan with GIVEAWAY!
by sue on Feb.08, 2010, under Book Chat
From Nicole Jordan:
Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder—and the Libido
Beauty is a strange quality. We all know that because of the way nature works, the first thing that usually registers in a man’s brain (aka his libido) is the way a woman looks. Generally speaking, when a guy meets a woman, if she measures up to his standard of beauty, his engines start revving, and the courtship is on. It takes longer for a woman’s personality, intelligence, energy, and wit to score on a guy’s attraction meter, not to mention any advantages he might find in her financial or social station.
That’s why the heroine in my new Regency historical, To Tame a Dangerous Lord, is immediately skeptical when an ultra sexy, dashingly handsome war hero nobleman proposes marriage shortly after they meet. You see, Madeline Ellis is not only a commoner, a member of the working class, she is, well, outright plain. And she knows it. And is comfortable with it. Rayne Kenyon, Earl of Haviland, has a bevy of beauties (not to mention their eager marriage-minded mamas) swarming around him like gnats. So why would he be interested in marrying her?
And then Madeline learns his intention: He wants a broodmare. And no emotional involvement. Madeline is plain, but she isn’t stupid. Rayne Kenyon can take a flying Regency leap, as far as she’s concerned, because she’d rather die a spinster than marry simply to bear a man’s children in a loveless marriage of convenience.
I so enjoyed writing this fifth novel in my Courtship Wars series because Madeline isn’t the classic beauty we Regency authors usually cast in the lead role of our stories, mainly because beauty was so highly regarded during that era. I had as much fun leading Madeline to discover her attraction quotient as I did making Rayne realize that she’s stolen his heart for a slew of reasons that have nothing to do with classic beauty—her spirit and courage (when she’s fending off lecherous stalkers), her loyalty to family and friends (when she’s trying to save her younger brother from hanging), and her ability to keep Rayne constantly challenged (every time they get together!)
Anyone who has ever thought she was too fat, too thin, too tall, too short, flat-chested, big-hipped, possessed a big nose or squinty eyes, overly straight hair or curly hair, ugly nails, big feet or crow’s feet—in other words, most of us —will relate to Madeline. Will get a kick out of watching Rayne crank up the courtship in order to convince Madeline that he not only loves her but that he finds her immensely, soul-deep beautiful. For there is a visceral appeal when a man thinks we’re beautiful—even if (especially if!) we’re not.
I’ve often thought how scary it must be for a celebrity whose looks are her stock-in-trade. What will happen when the camera no longer finds her beautiful?
How about you? When it comes to beauty, how important is it that the heroines in the romance novels you read be able to turn a man’s head? Have you ever considered yourself “plain” only to be told that you are beautiful? Do you think beauty is more or less important in today’s world than it was in Regency times?
* To find out more about Madeline and Rayne’s latest romantic battle in the Courtship Wars, check out www.NicoleJordanAuthor.com, where you’ll find chapter excerpts, character blogs, monthly contests, and downloadable color bookmarks!
** From today’s commenters I’ll randomly draw a name to win a lovely pair of vintage-inspired earrings, plus your choice of an earlier Courtship Wars romance, TO PLEASURE A LADY, TO BED A BEAUTY, TO SEDUCE A BRIDE, or TO ROMANCE A CHARMING ROGUE, so post often!
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Friend Feed
February 13th, 2010 on 10:35 pm
I like it when the heroine turns into a swan, to to speak, and she is unaware of her appeal.
I am not picky about the hero’s looks, but my only prerequisite is that he must be tall and well built;)
February 13th, 2010 on 4:17 pm
I am not that hung up on beauty. I think the way a person acts and their personality can make them attractive whether or not they are outwardly good looking or not. I am not saying all gorgeous people are this way, but I’ve met really attractive people and they have either had no personality or knew how attractive they were so they had an ego problem. Like I say, not all attractive people are that way, but I think looks are emphasized way to much.
February 9th, 2010 on 6:31 pm
I love romance, probably because it’s so missing from my life these days! I have always considered myself plain Jane. In my birth family my sister was the “pretty one” and I’ve carried that mindset my entire life. That said, I would love to see more stories with plain or just average heroines. The hero has to get to know her to realize her inner beauty. Of course, the hero would have to be gorgeous and a true romantic! I’m glad my own daughter didn’t grow up thinking she had to meet certain “criteria” to be accepted in the world, but now with the Internet all over the world, girls must be getting some mixed messages. Beautiful People are just that; the fact that they are beautiful shouldn’t be the only thing they offer society.
I am not familiar with Nicole’s books, but from previous comments I think I might start the Notorious series soon!
February 9th, 2010 on 6:02 pm
When it comes to beauty, how important is it that the heroines in the romance novels you read be able to turn a man’s head? Yep enjoy reading about how the guy’s head did a 360 and ultimately fell off the chair *lol* when the lady walks by. Awesome to have to read how the guy makes up for it ;o)
Have you ever considered yourself “plain” only to be told that you are beautiful? Still shy to think that way but working on accepting the compliments!
Do you think beauty is more or less important in today’s world than it was in Regency times? I think its more, society today is driven by the media hype and its such a shame
February 9th, 2010 on 12:12 pm
I loved your book To Tame a Dangerous Lord. I would highly recommend it to everyone. Great reading.
tarenn98[at]yahoo[dot]com
February 9th, 2010 on 11:31 am
Thanks for the warm welcome, all! And for the great comments. I loved reading everyone’s opinions about beauty in romance novels — obviously we romance lovers have a lot in common!
Many thanks also, Sue, for inviting me to your wonderful blog site! Your support of the romance industry and authors and readers is priceless!
February 9th, 2010 on 10:03 am
I actually like it when the heroin is plain in books but I think today in society beauty is VERY important. I mean think about the women who spends thousand of dollars on Botox, breast implants, etc…
February 9th, 2010 on 1:57 am
I love a story of a woman who is not beautiful in the normal sense, but has such a lovely personality and character that the hero can’t help but fall for her. Being beautiful is just too easy, and it adds to the story to have a man get to know a woman that he might not be immediately attracted to and love her for who she is.
February 9th, 2010 on 1:52 am
congrats this book looks and sounds awesome cant wait to read it. i think im plain, i think beauty was more important than but it still plays a big part in everyday lives.
February 9th, 2010 on 1:14 am
Hi Nicole Jordan,
I’m a huge fan!! I just read your new book To Tame a dangerous Lord. I loved it! I can’t wait for your next book.
I was wondering when you were going to post an excerpt of your next novel TO DESIRE A WICKED DUKE? And after this series, what will write next?
Please keep us posted. Thanks!!
February 9th, 2010 on 12:48 am
>>>>Congrats om your new release! I think beauty isn’t what you see from the outside but what is from within. Outside beauty only stays for a very short time, inside beauty last forever!
Thank you, Lisa! Long live inner beauty!
February 9th, 2010 on 12:47 am
>>> Being smart and a little bit of a tom-boy are my favorite heroines.
A reader after my own heart, Molly! Love this combo.
>>>I don;t mind physically challenged heroes so a plain heroine is okay, too! Beauty is subjective even in the Regency period!
Great point, Etirv. I just saw Avatar this weekend (finally found the time) and it was fascinating to me that the hero had physical challenges in his real body that disappeared in his avatar body. You could see his joy so clearly.
February 9th, 2010 on 12:43 am
>>> I have often wondered why the hero can’t ever be less that six-feet-tall. I am only five-feet-two and would get a crick in my neck having to look up to some guy over six-feet all the time.
Too funny, Gladys! I’ve always been tall for a woman, so I had the opposite problem… always tried to slouch to fit in, which was terrible for my posture and didn’t do anything to make me more appealing, lol.
>>> Note brides in the paper. They are proof that one doesn’t have to be beautiful to catch a man(and those pictures are studio-perfected.
Great point! It’s miraculous what a good photographer can do these days!
February 9th, 2010 on 12:17 am
>>>For being fat there is no forgiveness, only ridicule. So very sad that body image is so important to so many.
It does seem this way, Jennifer, doesn’t it? Very sad.
>>>That’s what I like about plain Jane stories where the heroine is not so much transformed but revealed in the course of the story by her actions to the hero.
Perfect way of putting it, SueA!
February 9th, 2010 on 12:15 am
Congrats om your new release! I think beauty isn’t what you see from the outside but what is from within. Outside beauty only stays for a very short time, inside beauty last forever!
February 9th, 2010 on 12:01 am
>>>Congrats on the new release, Nicole. Most romance novels I read feature a beautiful heroine, but it’s also nice to read about a plain heroine, too.
Thank you, Jane! It’s always an interesting time when an author sends her newest baby out into the world.
>>>I use to say when a man said I was pretty, I would, say, ” Thank you, but the inside is where my best qualities reside “.
Keep writing these wonderful books.
Lovely sentiment, Barbara! And thank you, too!
February 8th, 2010 on 11:58 pm
>>>I believe that beauty comes from inside. If you dont have it inside, it doesnt matter whats on the outside
Joann, I think I’m going to have this inscribed on a plaque or something, lol. It’s important to remember.
>>> I love independent female heroines who’s unique qualities make the hero stop in his tracks and always make him think twice. I cannot wait for To Tame a Dangerous Lord.
Love the way you put this, Erika! And I hope Dangerous Lord is worth your hard-earned time and money.
February 8th, 2010 on 11:53 pm
>>>>Natural beauty or a plain heroin are my favs!
My Hubby things I am beautiful and thats enough for me Those earrings are divine!!
I’m so glad you feel that way, on all counts, Alicia!
>>>I like heroines who aren’t aware of their beauty. Those are usually the nice, strong, and independent heronines I like to read about and are easier to relate to
Ditto that, Chelsea!
February 8th, 2010 on 11:51 pm
>>>Hot!Hot!Your books are almost too hot to touch,they are that good.
LOL, Opal! Thank you very much. I try, truly I do.
>>>Makes it more real to me. I really believe a good heart is truly what stands out and if that good heart isn’t there, the beauty fades away with time.
Lovely sentiment, Kammie. And that’s such a great point. Physical beauty doesn’t last, but inner beauty does.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:59 pm
I don;t mind physically challenged heroes so a plain heroine is okay, too! Beauty is subjective even in the Regency period!
February 8th, 2010 on 10:53 pm
I don’t mind the heroines being attractive, but I like them to be more “real” than a real stunner. I also like them to be brunette, like me, and smart. Being smart and a little bit of a tom-boy are my favorite heroines.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:13 pm
I found your having a heroine who isn’t physically beatiful facinating. I have often wondered why the hero can’t ever be less that six-feet-tall. I am only five-feet-two and would get a crick in my neck having to look up to some guy over six-feet all the time. I also note that, when observing Hollywood couples, seldom are both extra nice looking. Maybe money plays a part here. Note brides in the paper. They are proof that one doesn’t have to be beautiful to catch a man(and those pictures are studio-perfected.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:02 pm
I think beauty is subjective, with that said there is an accepted standard of beauty. But I also believe that once you get to a person inside out the beauty inside can shine just as brightly in the eye of the beholder. That’s what I like about plain Jane stories where the heroine is not so much transformed but revealed in the course of the story by her actions to the hero.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:01 pm
Why is it that everything in this world is forgivable, save one. You can murder and be forgiven, you can be hurt others and be forgiven, you can commit arsene again forgiven, everything but be fat. For being fat there is no forgiveness, only ridicule. So very sad that body image is so important to so many.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:00 pm
I think heroines in the Regency time did have to dress a certain way but did not have to have qualities that we consider pretty today.
The heroines must have a certain quality that stands out. For example: Her feisty personality with flaming red hair or jet black hair with sky blue eyes that twinkle, that can hold her own in a the world in the past that was dominated by men. Women, than did not have to be drop dead gorgeous or pencil model thin. Body types were much more curvy. I think we focus today too much on outside beauty and trying to fit the image that we see on TV or from the magazines.
I use to say when a man said I was pretty, I would, say, ” Thank you, but the inside is where my best qualities reside “.
Keep writing these wonderful books.
February 8th, 2010 on 9:50 pm
Congrats on the new release, Nicole. Most romance novels I read feature a beautiful heroine, but it’s also nice to read about a plain heroine, too.
February 8th, 2010 on 9:40 pm
I am not sure I would say I love books with plain Jane heroines. No one is really a plain Jane. Everyone is interesting in their own ways. Not being beautiful does not make them plain. I love independent female heroines who’s unique qualities make the hero stop in his tracks and always make him think twice.
I cannot wait for To Tame a Dangerous Lord.
Books are Life!!!!!!!
February 8th, 2010 on 9:38 pm
I believe that beauty comes from inside. If you dont have it inside, it doesnt matter whats on the outside
February 8th, 2010 on 9:17 pm
I like heroines who aren’t aware of their beauty. Those are usually the nice, strong, and independent heronines I like to read about and are easier to relate to
February 8th, 2010 on 9:16 pm
Natural beauty or a plain heroin are my favs!
My Hubby things I am beautiful and thats enough for me
Those earrings are divine!! ♥
February 8th, 2010 on 9:16 pm
I can relate to Madeline in many of the ways you mention. It sounds like a wonderful story!
I actually like it better when the heroine has other qualities that attract the hero besides her looks. Makes it more real to me. I really believe a good heart is truly what stands out and if that good heart isn’t there, the beauty fades away with time.
I would like to say that beauty is less important today, but I think I’d be wrong. lol
February 8th, 2010 on 8:58 pm
Hot!Hot!Your books are almost too hot to touch,they are that good.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:40 pm
>>>But my best friend tells me I’m gorgeous, my boyfriend still has the hots for me and I was told more than once by men that they thought I was stunning. SO who knows
Christine, sounds like you oughta listen to them *smile*
>>In any case, I like to read about heroes and heroines who aren’t models or breathtaking beauties. It means they have something beautiful inside, too.
Boy, so do I! The same thing goes for celebreties. I’ll admire a nice person far more than a gorgeous one.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:38 pm
>>>The heroine can turn heads that matter with inside beauty.
I love this sentiment, RobynL. That’s what should happen… the people who really matter love you for who you are, not what you look like.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:37 pm
>>>I like to read where the heroines are natural beauties - not something so ‘perfect’ that you can’t imagine it. I think with natural beauty, the heroines are more real & it’s easier to imagine them & relate to them.
I so agree, Trina. And I’ve often thought we women are luckier than men since we can use a little bit of cosmetics to enhance our natural looks when they can’t.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:35 pm
>>>I grew up the plain sister of beautiful sister and always dreamed I could look like she did. As an adult I learned that when we were growing up, she always dreamed that she could look like I did because she thought I was beautiful and that she was the plain sister.
Oh, wow, Joelle — that is so interesting! Sounds like you were close.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:33 pm
>>>Sometimes the cover art does not even seem to match what I think someone would look like anyway.
Joy, I had to laugh at this. My last cover, the art dept put a blond, shoulder length hair on the heroine when she really had short curly raven hair! I at least got them to change the color, although they kept it long.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:31 pm
>>>This book sounds great! Cant wait to read it
Jessica, I hope it lives up to your high expectations!
>>>I think that beauty is more important now. The cosmetics industry is going strong and there’s a lot of cosmetic surgery going on.
Chey, I wonder if beauty is more important to our own self-image, but maybe less important in finding a mate? I’m sure the cosmetics industry has a lot do with that! As do magazines and movies.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:28 pm
>>>However, I believe that the further you travel back in time, the more highly prized feminine beauty becomes.
Virginia, that’s a really interesting observation — and I tend to agree. And I’m so sorry about your thyroid problem. I have 3 good friends who have had to deal with the same issues. Big hugs!
February 8th, 2010 on 8:24 pm
>>>It’s more important what the inside of a person is like.
You said it, Denise!
>>>I think there are more plain janes out there than beauty queens so a lot of us understand and love those kind of storylines.
Catslady, so true.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:22 pm
>>> I think sometimes they are more loving then the beauties are.
QuiltLady, great point!
>>>Those earrings look GORGEOUS
Kristi, I’m afraid I can’t take credit, since my publicist chose them, lol. But they are gorgeous.
>>>And I love a plain jane smartie! I don’t like it when there is too much focus on her plain looks because after the few initial descriptions, the heroine is coming across on her personality!
Excellent point. If you do read TTADL, I would love to know if there was too much or the right amount of reference to her plainness.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:21 pm
I find myself plain. I have a nice smile and pretty blue eyes, but i’m a little overweight. But my best friend tells me I’m gorgeous, my boyfriend still has the hots for me and I was told more than once by men that they thought I was stunning. SO who knows. In any case, I like to read about heroes and heroines who aren’t models or breathtaking beauties. It means they have something beautiful inside, too.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:09 pm
beauty is in the eye of the beholder; beauty inside is far more precious than beauty outside. The heroine can turn heads that matter with inside beauty.
So beauty or plaine Jane is fine with me. I’d like to see more plain Jane heroines though.
February 8th, 2010 on 8:06 pm
I like to read where the heroines are natural beauties - not something so ‘perfect’ that you can’t imagine it. I think with natural beauty, the heroines are more real & it’s easier to imagine them & relate to them.
February 8th, 2010 on 7:54 pm
I grew up the plain sister of beautiful sister and always dreamed I could look like she did. As an adult I learned that when we were growing up, she always dreamed that she could look like I did because she thought I was beautiful and that she was the plain sister.
So, I prefer “plain” heroines. Though as they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
February 8th, 2010 on 7:51 pm
I like to know that a hero or heroine are beautiful on the inside. Looks don’t matter all that much to me.
Sometimes the cover art does not even seem to match what I think someone would look like anyway.
February 8th, 2010 on 7:49 pm
I think that beauty is more important now. The cosmetics industry is going strong and there’s a lot of cosmetic surgery going on.
February 8th, 2010 on 7:47 pm
This book sounds great! Cant wait to read it
February 8th, 2010 on 8:57 pm
love your books, we each have something special to give. LOLo
February 8th, 2010 on 7:44 pm
Hi, Nicole! Thanks for a fabulous giveaway! A heroine can be a head-turner without being the image of “female perfection”. She can be striking, even called “handsome”, with a dazzling smile or captivating eyes outshining any irregular features. However, I believe that the further you travel back in time, the more highly prized feminine beauty becomes. That is because ladies had fewer freedoms, lesser social significance, and infrequent opportunites to become successful career women. Thus, their physical attributes (or lack thereof) many times became the focal point of the quality of their existence. In my own lifetime, I have gone from one physical extreme to another due to a hereditary thyroid disease. There were changes in the way that I was received, personally and professionally, as my appearance changed. I’m just grateful to have survived that ordeal with less looks and a greater appreciation for being alive. If an artist could paint a portrait of my “inner face and figure”, then maybe I would be on the cover of a historical romance : )
February 8th, 2010 on 6:41 pm
I think there are more plain janes out there than beauty queens so a lot of us understand and love those kind of storylines.
February 8th, 2010 on 6:04 pm
It’s more important what the inside of a person is like. You can be a drop dead beauty queen, but be ugly as dirt on the inside.
February 8th, 2010 on 5:44 pm
Those earrings look GORGEOUS
And I love a plain jane smartie! I don’t like it when there is too much focus on her plain looks because after the few initial descriptions, the heroine is coming across on her personality! Usually authors get it right on and it is a good storyline that I prefer to read!
February 8th, 2010 on 5:29 pm
I consider myself plain! So a plain heroine works real well for me. I think sometimes they are more loving then the beauties are.
February 8th, 2010 on 4:53 pm
>>>Thanks Nicole for blogging — we filmed Sue’s Must Reads for Feb & included TO TAME A DANGEROUS LORD; http://bit.ly/R8Ut5 Thanks for the Courtship Wars - they’ve been fun.
Wow, thank you, Sue! I’m totally honored.
And thanks so much for the invitation to blog today. You have some great readers here at Borders True Romance!
February 8th, 2010 on 4:44 pm
>>> Nothing is harder than trying to imagine yourself as the beauty queen when you’ve never seen a tiara up close.
Lesli, you have such a great way with words, lol. Love it!
February 8th, 2010 on 4:42 pm
>>>>The heroine doesn’t have to have external beauty in order for me to root for her. Though beauty is still important today, there are more options.
Tia, you hit on a great word…. rooting for the heroine is so critical to making us love a book, isn’t it?
February 8th, 2010 on 4:40 pm
Thanks Nicole for blogging — we filmed Sue’s Must Reads for Feb & included TO TAME A DANGEROUS LORD; http://bit.ly/R8Ut5
Thanks for the Courtship Wars - they’ve been fun.
And actually, I don’t really pay too much attention to the heroines looks so I guess it’s all about what the hero likes
February 8th, 2010 on 4:39 pm
>>>I like plain Jane heroines. She is valued for her inner beauty, for who she is rather than what she looks like.
Chey, I think we’re deleoping a strong consensus here, lol.
February 8th, 2010 on 4:32 pm
>>>A heroine doesn’t have to be beautiful—just perceived that way by the hero.
A perfect way to put it, Estella! And when the hero feels that way, often readers feel that way. Of course, you have to justify the heroine’s appeal with actions, not just words, which sometimes take some real work on the author’s part!
February 8th, 2010 on 4:30 pm
Nicole, isn’t that a cool quote?! Some women are like that–the plain Janes really do have an inner beauty because of their spunkiness, kindness, and even sweetness. Hurrah for the men who see the inner beauty!
February 8th, 2010 on 4:29 pm
>>>I like my heroes and heroines to have flaws and conflicts and then craft a way to get out of troubles. If everything’s perfect, it lacks the spice I want in a romance novel. Thanks for writing what I desire to devour.
Yes, Yes, Sunnymay! You’re a reader after my own heart. Although… I have been known to give my characters a some pretty big flaws, so it’s not always easy getting them out of their troubles, lol.
February 8th, 2010 on 4:28 pm
I like plain Jane heroines. She is valued for her inner beauty, for who she is rather than what she looks like.
February 8th, 2010 on 4:27 pm
>>>> I like this following quote because people often look at the outside, superficial side of a person.
“People are like stained glass windows. Some show their beauty on the outside. Others show their beauty with the light that shines from within.”
~Anonymous
Oh, my, DebH! That is just lovely. Love it!
February 8th, 2010 on 4:24 pm
>>>>In Regency times breeding and wealth were considered more essential than looks. Not the best way too choose a lifelong mate but then choosing just based on looks isn’t either.
Another great point, Cherie! Thank heavens we women today have so many more choices of what do with our lives, even whether or not to marry.
February 8th, 2010 on 4:24 pm
Nicole,
I hope your other readers realize what service a writer gives by creating such heroines for us. Nothing is harder than trying to imagine yourself as the beauty queen when you’ve never seen a tiara up close.
Also, you’re helping us give our men the benefit of the doubt when they compliment us when we’re at our picturesque worst.
Thanks for all of it, and I can’t wait to read it.
Lesli
February 8th, 2010 on 4:22 pm
>>> but for those stories that have the hero instantly become infatuated with the heroine’s looks, I also like reading from another character’s (someone other than the hero or heroine) point of view, where we realize that, hey, other people don’t think she’s all that in the looks department.
Julie, what a great point! I also like it when a seemingly gorgeous character gets taken down a peg because the rest of their character/personality doesn’t live up to their good looks.
February 8th, 2010 on 4:21 pm
The heroine doesn’t have to have external beauty in order for me to root for her. Though beauty is still important today, there are more options.
February 8th, 2010 on 4:19 pm
>>> The majority of the human race fall under the plain Jane status, so to me it’s perfectly realistic that a romance novel heroine can be one also.
I hear you, ReadinRobin! Of course, one of the things we romance readers love about romance novels is sometimes the escape from reality… so it’s interesting as an author to walk the line between fantasy and reality.
February 8th, 2010 on 4:04 pm
A heroine doesn’t have to be beautiful—just perceived that way by the hero.
February 8th, 2010 on 4:34 pm
Very well said.
February 8th, 2010 on 3:48 pm
I like my heroes and heroines to have flaws and conflicts and then craft a way to get out of troubles. If everything’s perfect, it lacks the spice I want in a romance novel. Thanks for writing what I desire to devour.
February 8th, 2010 on 3:47 pm
Nicole, I am looking forward to reading TTADL! I am especially eager to read it after reading your post. I love heroines I can relate to. I don’t think I am a particularly pretty woman, but my husband loves me and he thinks I’m beautiful and sexy and that is all that matters.
I like this following quote because people often look at the outside, superficial side of a person.
“People are like stained glass windows. Some show their beauty on the outside. Others show their beauty with the light that shines from within.”
~Anonymous
February 8th, 2010 on 3:45 pm
I think the heroine can be “pretty” and I am more than satisfied with that. I actually prefer they not be breathtakingly lovely. It is hard to relate to someone like that. In Regency times breeding and wealth were considered more essential than looks. Not the best way too choose a lifelong mate but then choosing just based on looks isn’t either.
February 8th, 2010 on 3:30 pm
I think most of can identify better with a heroine who isn’t drop-dead gorgeous! I love reading about the hero’s gradual realization that the heroine is beautiful as a person, but for those stories that have the hero instantly become infatuated with the heroine’s looks, I also like reading from another character’s (someone other than the hero or heroine) point of view, where we realize that, hey, other people don’t think she’s all that in the looks department.
That being said, I think it’s really sad how much we emphasize outer appearances in our society. You can miss out on so much that way.
February 8th, 2010 on 3:06 pm
I enjoy books where the heroine is a plain Jane just as much as the ones where she is drop-dead gorgeous. The majority of the human race fall under the plain Jane status, so to me it’s perfectly realistic that a romance novel heroine can be one also.
February 8th, 2010 on 2:30 pm
>>>To me, it just seems like Regency time was a much simpler time.
Rosie, it seems that way to me too! Of course, we overlook so much of reality in our romance fiction. So maybe the folks who lived back then thought their lives were pretty complicated, too. Especially if they came from the working class and didn’t have servants to do all the real work!
February 8th, 2010 on 2:27 pm
>>>I actually prefer the plain heroines especially when they are told how really beautiful they are!
Amanda, I like this too for a change of pace! Most romance heroines are gorgeous — and I’m guilty of that too — so it was fun to create a heroine whose best qualities weren’t in the looks department.
February 8th, 2010 on 2:18 pm
>>>It would be great to read about a hero who sees a woman’s inner beauty.
Cheryl, I hope that’s the impact I left with readers. Also, I had a little fun with Rayne being a bit clueless… in guy fashion, he can’t see what the big deal is about women wanting to be pretty, except in that era, beauty was a woman’s chief asset in order to attract a husband.
February 8th, 2010 on 2:14 pm
>>>There is so much more important things in life that deserves more attention rather than focusing on the way we all look.
So well said, Lisa! And it’s great that you’re happy with who you are.
I think all of us want to be attractive and appealing to our loved ones, but there is so much more to being attractive and appealing than just physical beauty.
February 8th, 2010 on 2:06 pm
I enjoy reading about the plain heroine moreso than the beautiful heroine. It’s sad that this day and age has put so much emphasis on beauty, thinness, etc. To me, it just seems like Regency time was a much simpler time.
February 8th, 2010 on 2:01 pm
I actually prefer the plain heroines especially when they are told how really beautiful they are!
February 8th, 2010 on 1:50 pm
I think it is wonderful that you are taking a different route and not making the heroine a great beauty. I would guess that most of us are not great beauties ourselves, so we appreciate that a romance novel can feature an average woman. It would be great to read about a hero who sees a woman’s inner beauty.
February 8th, 2010 on 1:43 pm
Your book sounds wonderful and looking forward to reading it. I like reading about heroines who are not beautiful in the classic sense but possess a truly beautiful character that makes the hero fall deeply in love with her.
I don’t think I would call myself plain, but I certainly wouldn’t call myself a classic beauty, either. Lol. I’ve been called cute and that’s good enough for me.
I think it is sad in today’s world that so much is placed on outward beauty that makes people feel they must work hard to measure up to,especially the young. It’s a bad message to send girls and boys alike. There is so much more important things in life that deserves more attention rather than focusing on the way we all look.
February 8th, 2010 on 1:32 pm
>>>>Hi Nicole! Congratulations on your new release, I love the Courtship Wars series. Do you have plans for writing any more books in this series?
Thank you, AmberE! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the series!
Dangerous Lord is Bk 5, and I have one more book planned to wrap up the series.
Tess Blanchard will have her story in Courtship Wars Book 6, TO DESIRE A WICKED DUKE. Much against her will, Tess gets a second chance at love with a vexingly arrogant duke, the elder cousin of her late fiancé. And courtesan Fanny Irwin finally will enjoy her own romance in Book 6, although not as a major heroine.
Oh, and there’s an excerpt from Tess’s first chapter in the back of Dangerous Lord!
February 8th, 2010 on 1:10 pm
Hi Nicole! Congratulations on your new release, I love the Courtship Wars series. Do you have plans for writing any more books in this series?
I don’t think it’s important as long as the hero sees the heroine as being beautiful, and goes about telling her any many ways. It’s what is on the inside that really matters. The only thing that bothers me is when to much emphasis is placed on it through out the whole book.
February 8th, 2010 on 12:41 pm
>>>Your heroine sounds inspiring and wonderful.
Thanks, Anne! I hope I didn’t make Madeline too much of a goody two shoes! I tried to make her practical and matter of fact about her looks, and perhaps a little wistful about what might have been if she had been the kind of pretty young thing that most noblemen were attracted too. Luckily for her, Rayne is not just any nobleman!
February 8th, 2010 on 12:37 pm
>>>Jane Austen handled this perfectly in Pride & Prejudice. Elizabeth was NOT the great beauty and so Mr. Darcy said so, but as he got to know her and started to fall for her, suddenly Elizabeth’s eyes became “fine.”
Scopio, I adore this change in Darcy. And I loved how he told Caroline Bingley off when she ragged him about Lizzie’s looks!
February 8th, 2010 on 12:33 pm
>>>Squeee!!! Nicole Jordan is an auto buy author for me! As long as the hero finds the heroine beautiful, I’m happy!
I’m honored, Nancy! And you’ve made me happy, too *G*
February 8th, 2010 on 12:31 pm
>>>the hero sees them as beautiful. That is what is important.
Absolutely, Danielle! My thoughts exactly, *Grin*
February 8th, 2010 on 12:29 pm
>>Hubby thinks I’m beautiful, that’s all that counts to me!
That’s lovely, Karyn! And that is exactly what SHOULD count.
February 8th, 2010 on 12:28 pm
>>> As a mother and grandmother, I really worry about that message for young women.
GSM, so true! I can remember my southern belle mother telling me at a very young age that boys/men like girls to be “clinging vines.” Good thing I didn’t listen to her, lol.
February 8th, 2010 on 11:38 am
Your heroine sounds inspiring and wonderful. Beauty comes in many shapes, sizes and forms and the importance is the individual’s character, personality and goodness that shines through.
February 8th, 2010 on 11:18 am
Physical chemistry is a big part of love. And when you first meet someone, it’s not their brain or good heart, looking at you. I like stories with plain Janes but the coming together of the H&H has to ring true, sometimes authors try to be a bit too PC trying not to offend.
Jane Austen handled this perfectly in Pride & Prejudice. Elizabeth was NOT the great beauty and so Mr. Darcy said so, but as he got to know her and started to fall for her, suddenly Elizabeth’s eyes became “fine.”
I think looks were way more important in Regency times.
February 8th, 2010 on 11:14 am
Squeee!!! Nicole Jordan is an auto buy author for me! As long as the hero finds the heroine beautiful, I’m happy!
February 8th, 2010 on 10:56 am
It is not at all important that the heroine be a stunning beauty. They can be quite plain by most standards, but the hero sees them as beautiful. That is what is important.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:53 am
>>>That can make your eyes sparkle like diamonds and your smile as warm as a summersday, how can you not be beautiful if posessing those?!
Kirsten, what a lovely way to put it! Love it!
Peggy, I agree, the character in a romance novel is sooo much more important!
Michelle, rolls of fat at 150#? That heroine must have been 4 feet tall! I have a woman friend who weighs 180 pounds, but she’s very tall and it’s all muscle and she has a gorgeous to-die-for body bc she’s a fitness expert. She certainly doesn’t have rolls of fat anywhere!
February 8th, 2010 on 10:53 am
I love the premise of your book. I recently read “The Border Lord” by Sophia James (Harlequin) and the heroine had a skin condition and was considered somewhat plain, while he, of course, was male Highlander perfection. It is a great premise, gives us normal looking ladies a chance to hope, that some handsome man will look beyond, and see the inner beauty inside.
As for myself, I have been categorized as ‘cute’ once or twice, LOL! Hubby thinks I’m beautiful, that’s all that counts to me!
February 8th, 2010 on 10:50 am
It’s great that your heroine is plain looking and the transformation is in not in her actual appearance, but in how Rayne sees Madeline. There is so much about our society that prefers the beautiful. As a mother and grandmother, I really worry about that message for young women.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:47 am
Carol, thank you for the compliment! I’m thrilled you like my writing.
>>>>smart, funny, strong, etc…… I think we can identify better with women who are more like us
So well put, Caridad!
>>>> I like when the heroine isn’t a classic beauty but the hero finds things that make her beautiful.
I love that too, Rebekah. Just makes my reader heart melt.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:43 am
>>>Come on, who can’t relate to the overlooked heroine?
My question exactly, Maered! I think that’s probably why Cinderella is my fave fairy tale, with Beauty and the Beast coming in a close second. I just love the idea of your soul mate seeing through the exterior disadvatages to the real lovable person underneath.
>>>> We are constantly bombarded with ways to improve our image! Look at all the magazine, TV and Internet ads for cosmetics, diet pills, diet plans, plastic surgery!
LaurieG, don’t get me started! LOL.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:39 am
>>>Can’t wait to get the next book
Thank you, Debra! I hope Dangerous Lord lives up to your high expectations, especially now when I’ve made such a big deal about it, lol.
Raelena — what a beautiful name! That’s heroine worthy. I would love to know the origin of it.
Mariska, my publicist found those earrings! She has great taste and manages to come up with some really cool stuff that I lust after but can’t win.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:29 am
Gigi, I’m so pleased you liked my Notorious series! And I totally agree with you — it’s so sad the way girls are treated.
Good grief, I remember my junior high school days and how cruel some kids could be! I wouldn’t go back to that time for a million bucks!
February 8th, 2010 on 10:22 am
I love this idea and immediately went and put it in my amazon cart. I can’t wait to read it. I find that when I’m reading books that I prefer to to find the characters realistic, which includes beauty. Why don’t heroines ever get zits?
Once while browsing a for a good read I found a book about a woman who was “Fat” and miserable and how she turned her life around and found true love. Uh…yea the woman was 150 lbs and counting the rolls of fat down her back? I don’t know about many other readers but 150 is not fat, it’s healthy and beautiful. I always said if I wrote a book I’d put real people in it, because for me real is beautiful. Can’t wait to read your book.
February 8th, 2010 on 10:13 am
I enjoy reading about the character in the story.There looks does not really matter.
February 8th, 2010 on 9:54 am
I love that the book is about a woman who is (wrongly so) called less than beautiful. Not being a “looker” myself I know that a woman can & will be judge by people based on her appearance. They don’t take the time to see if there is something worthwhile unserneath. They miss out! for a sense of humor or great inner strenght are very pretty things. That can make your eyes sparkle like diamonds and your smile as warm as a summersday, how can you not be beautiful if posessing those?!
February 8th, 2010 on 9:40 am
Good morning, all!
I love it that many of you feel the same way about beauty!
February 8th, 2010 on 9:16 am
I think that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What one person finds attractive isn’t so for another. I like when the heroine isn’t a classic beauty but the hero finds things that make her beautiful.
February 8th, 2010 on 1:06 pm
I really agree that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Looks aren’t really important to me. I am getting so tired of reading about ‘beautiful’ heroines, lol.
Thanks for the posts Nicole!
February 8th, 2010 on 8:11 am
I think there’s a lot of emphasis on beauty today. I like heroines who are smart, funny, strong, etc. but not necessarily stunning. I think we can identify better with women who are more like us and heroes who fall in love with women for something other than their looks.
February 8th, 2010 on 7:36 am
Nicole , I just have to say that I love all your writing. Your books have given me many hours of appreciated reading.
I too have read a few books where the heroine was plain but won over the hero. Everyone should have their happy endings. There is too much focus today on how thin and beautiful people are or should be.
Carol L.
February 8th, 2010 on 6:58 am
I believe that beauty is more important today. We are constantly bombarded with ways to improve our image! Look at all the magazine, TV and Internet ads for cosmetics, diet pills, diet plans, plastic surgery!
I like reading about an average person winning the hero! I believe that beauty is only skin deep and that one’s actions do definitely showcase one’s inner beauty!
February 8th, 2010 on 6:18 am
I love reading about plain heroines and how it truly is their personality which attracts the hero. Come on, who can’t relate to the overlooked heroine? I love these types of romances.
Thanks Nicole!
February 8th, 2010 on 4:39 am
I love when a heroine is known because she has a great inner beauty. i do think beauty is more or less important in today’s world than it was in Regency times.
What a beautiful earrings
February 8th, 2010 on 3:13 am
I have read quite a few romance novels in which the heroine is plain looking and they are some of my favorites. It is nice to think that everyone can have a happy ending, even if they aren’t drop dead gorgeous.
February 8th, 2010 on 2:32 am
I’ve always thought that it is what is on the inside not the outside that counts. What’s the old sayng Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I think to much is put on how beautiful someone is.
Can’t wait to get the next book
February 8th, 2010 on 1:57 am
I love the idea of a Plain Jane heroine. I would love to read more heroines in books that are smart and have more inner beauty than traditional beautiful heroines. Gosh,I hope that made sense.
I am the person that thinks the unique (what some people would call ugly or different)in people and animals are really the beautiful ones. These standout in a crowd to me in a good way.
It is sad that girls especially in our society are treated differently just because of the way they look.
I have loved Nicole’s writing since the Notorious series.
That was one HOT set of books.
To Tame a Dangerous Lord sounds like just the kind of book I would enjoy reading.