What's the rule of thumb...

scfirenice

professional multitasker
Super Member
Registered
Joined
Jul 18, 2005
Messages
3,937
Reaction score
388
Location
Between a rock and a hard place.
What's the rule of thumb for how quickly your erotic story needs to, uh, get to the action??? I'm sure it depends on word length and so on but is there sort of a standard length for your set up? ( oh my)

Thanks
 

Cathy C

Ooo! Shiny new cover!
Kind Benefactor
Absolute Sage
Super Member
Registered
Joined
Jun 5, 2005
Messages
9,907
Reaction score
1,835
Location
Hiding in my writing cave
Website
www.cathyclamp.com
I don't really think there IS a "rule of thumb," per se. Generally, the erotic "action" starts as soon as the characters meet. There is normally at least a substantial physical attraction to the other character, and is usually internalized vividly through mental fantasies or lurid looks. The actual down and dirty can happen quick or slow, according to how the plot flows, but there should be an immediate "Wow!" reaction to the first look or first touch. JMHO! :)
 

veinglory

volitare nequeo
Self-Ban
Registered
Joined
Feb 12, 2005
Messages
28,750
Reaction score
2,937
Location
right here
Website
www.veinglory.com
The norms vary a lot depending on story length, genre and market. Fir an erotic romance novella I try and get there within about 3 chapters but I could probably get away with waiting long if the plot required it.