What makes a hero come alive as you read or write pages? His
looks, actions, emotions? There are so many adjectives to describe a hero, and
writers need the right combination to make him unforgettable to readers.
Each story setting can determine a hero’s demeanor, body
language, and actions. If he’s in danger, or the woman he loves is in danger, a
hero should be strong and willing to do anything to keep himself and loved one
safe. This calls for serious actions and behavior. Bravery in difficult
circumstances, even if he at first doesn’t succeed, makes a hero lovable.
Facial Looks: Heroes don’t have to have the perfect face.
Heroes with physical flaws…a scar on a cheek for example) become more real to
readers. Rugged, tanned features make a hero interesting. Perfect teeth,
perfect, face, perfect smile, can hide a sinister soul…and we know that no man
is perfect.
Physique: Most heroes seem to have wonderful abs, biceps,
rippling chest muscles. Readers want to visualize those characteristics in
heroes since some female readers will put themselves in the heroine’s place and
crave being close to the hero’s body. And, more and more, a hero’s “bulge” is
described. Having a heroine notice what’s straining his zippered area focuses
her attention on lusty thoughts and sexual desire.
Emotions: Can a hero cry? Be funny? Be rude and still catch
the heroine’s interest? Sure. Crying shows a deep, softer side. Being funny,
keeping conversations and settings lighthearted, shows a happy man, content
with his demeanor. A rude, harsh hero can come across as brooding, but still
garner some sympathy. Perhaps he’s brushing off the heroine for her own good,
or having a bad day and doesn’t realize how he’s offending the heroine. Being
contrite and apologizing makes him more lovable.
Does your hero have a quirk, something only he does? Does it
endear him to the heroine or annoy her? Having him do something like tip his
cowboy hat up for intimate face-to-face conversations makes him more likable. Cracking
his knuckles can not only annoy a heroine, but readers as well.
Body Language: Leaning casually makes a hero more
approachable, but a ramrod straight stance might make a heroine think twice
about getting too close. Heroes have to
“invite” the heroine to share their space, and make her feel comfortable.
Voice: Tone and adding “color” to comments can give a hero
that “stay with me” implication. Does he whisper, is there a huskiness quality
in his voice? Can a heroine…and reader…hear his tenderness and crave to be
closer?
And finally, how does your hero smell? Is there a “woodsy”
aroma? Hint of lime aftershave? All-male scent that drives the heroine crazy? When
a heroine inhales, are her senses bombarded by the aromas surrounding the hero?
Make your heroes unforgettable and embedded in readers’
minds. Give him a great smile, genuine passions for the heroine, and journey to
win her heart.
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My story: Operation Man Hunt
Marianne
http://www.mariannestephens.net
Wonderful post. I tend to write heroes based after people I know (husband, ex-bf) but certainly love to create a twist in the character! It makes them that much more interesting!
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