Guest Post: The Perfect Kiss, by Julie Lessman
The perfect kiss? Mmm … that’s a little bit like asking about somebody’s favorite food, isn’t it? I mean, come on—some people like their chili flamin’ hot and others like it mild and sweet.
Which means that the “perfect kiss” to some might be a nose nuzzle, while to somebody else—like moi—it’s a liplock that not only curls your toes, but your tummy as well.
Come on, you know what I’m talking about—like Rhett laying one on Scarlett before he swoops her up the stairs in Gone With the Wind? Or George Peppard in a liplock with Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, in the rain no less, with a cat between them. Or how ‘bout that kiss in The Notebook when Ryan Gosling kisses Rachel McAdams in the rainstorm, then carries her inside and pushes her to the wall?
Whew! Trust me, as a “wall-pusher” from way back, the perfect kiss to me is when a hero makes no bones about staking his claim, disarming the heroine with a powerful and possessive attraction that pushes her back to the wall—literally!
But for me, the real secret to a great kiss are the emotions surging around it like a romantic riptide that rolls in and out. Sure, you have to get the actions right, taking the reader through the step-by-steps of a kiss as if they’re watching a movie, like I blogged about in my Seeker blog, Keeping It “Reel” … or a “Novel” Approach to Putting a Movie in Your Readers’ Mind. But it’s those waves of emotions before and after the “kiss” that sweep the reader through a tsunami of feelings that will hopefully leave them breathless and gasping for more.
One of my favorite things to do with a kiss—which, in fact, is why the two examples below are what I consider my “perfect kisses”—is to use powerful emotions to frame a powerful kiss. For instance, my favorite love scene that I’ve ever written is from A Hope Undaunted and takes the reader through the ebb and flow of several strong emotions before and after “the kiss” (or “kisses” as in the first example below). In this example, the actual kiss portion of the scene begins with caring and concern on the hero’s part, then swells to shock, attraction, passion, more shock, anger, revenge and finally retribution and regret for both hero and heroine.
Deep breath …
Okay, I’m sorry, but for me as a CDQ (caffeinated drama queen), the more emotion the better, and I think 
for the reader, the more emotion, the better the kiss! Which is why the second example below, also from A Hope Undaunted, is my second favorite kiss because it has all the elements I like in a love scene—tenderness, passion, humor—unleashing a groundswell of emotions from the hero’s malaise to his jealousy, attraction, longing, shock, gratitude, desire, embarrassment and humor.
In my writer’s workbook, Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Inspirational and Sweet Markets, I quote the lyrics from Herman Hupfeld’s fabulous song, As Time Goes By, which claims that “a kiss is just a kiss, and a sigh is just a sigh.”
For the purpose of today’s blog, I am respectfully disagreeing with Mr. Hupfeld because one of the little tricks I’ve learned is that “a kiss is NOT just a kiss”—it’s a series of roller-coaster emotions that carry the reader to the Shores of Sigh on a tidal wave of feelings.
Ready to see what I’m talking about? Here are my first and second favorite kissing scenes that I’ve ever written. Why? Because when it comes to emotions, both are SO multi-dimensional! But, don’t take my word for it—YOU be the judge. Tell me in the comment section below which of the two kissing scenes YOU prefer and why, and I’ll enter you for a chance to win a signed copy of any of my books, including the paperback version of Romance-ology 101.
And remember … a few drops of Tabasco doesn’t make the chili bad … only a little spicier!
Julie’s 1st and 2nd Favorite Kissing Scenes
Thanks, Carla, for hosting me on your blog!
How to Contact Julie
I love to hear from reader friends, so if they like, they can contact me through my website, either by sending an e-mail via my site or by signing up for my newsletter, or through Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, or Pinterest.
Also, I have a cool blog feature on my website called JOURNAL JOTS, which is a very laid-back journal to my reader friends that will give your readers an idea as to my relaxed style of writing.
Or readers can check out my favorite romantic and spiritual scenes from each of my books on the EXCERPTS tab of my website.
Of course, I can be found daily at THE SEEKERS, a group blog of 13 published authors that inspires, encourages, teaches, and informs aspiring writers on the road to publication and beyond.
Tags: A Light in the Window, Dare to Love Again, inspirational fiction, Julie Lessman, kissing, romance, Romance-ology, writing romance
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Carol Moncado says:
Ah Julie. You do know how to get a gal’s heart pounding!! Could ya write a bit faster?! 😉
On February 3, 2014 at 8:56 am
Julie Lessman says:
LOL, Carol … well, what does one EXPECT on a blog called “All Things Romance” with a question like Carla’s in Valentine’s month, no less?? “Heart pounding” is a must, I think, especially to get the blood flowing on a cold, cold Monday!! 😉
I wish I could write faster, but alas, I am not Mary Connealy or Ruth Logan Herne with their lightning speed, but hopefully I can make up for it in the heat department! 😉
Hugs,
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 9:47 am
Amy says:
Hot flash alert! After reading these two kissing scenes even though it’s currently 32 degrees where I live I’m reaching to turn my fan on!! My goodness but Mrs. Lessman surely knows how to get the blood pumping and toes curling. I would have to say that the first kissing scene is my preferred kiss even both are literally breathtaking. I, too, am a “wall-pusher” where there’s no where to go but to be kissed continually and thoroughly as Mitch perfectly demonstrated so well on Katie. Excellent writing!!
Thanks for the opportunity to win one of these fantastic books and for warming me up on this cold day.
On February 3, 2014 at 9:29 am
Julie Lessman says:
YAY, Amy … another “wall-pusher”!! There are so few of us around, it seems, but boy, were they prevalent in the old-time movies! Sigh …
And, LOL … you are definitely a woman after my own heart, not only about the “wall-pushing,” but the fact that you slipped and called Luke “Mitch.” My two favorite heroes I’ve ever written are Luke and Mitch, and it’s pretty neck-in-neck as to who the top dog is. But, sigh … both are my cup of tea, and yours too, apparently! 😉
Hugs,
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 9:52 am
Amy says:
See how flustered these kissing scenes made me?? My head was reeling after reading these excerpts that I mixed up the men’s names. At least that shows you I’ve read your other books as well. I always look forward with much anticipation for the fireworks (kissing and otherwise) that take place in your books and I’ve not been disappointed yet. Keep up the great work and forgive my leading man switch.
On February 3, 2014 at 2:26 pm
Julie Lessman says:
LOL … completely and utterly forgiven, my friend! “Flustered” is a good thing when it comes to an author’s kissing scenes! 😉
Hugs!!
Julie
On February 4, 2014 at 1:12 pm
Bonnie Roof says:
Good morning, Julie and Carla!!
Julie, I love the kissing scenes in your books – but they absolutely exhaust me LOL)!! The description is so intense, I’m right there in that kiss with the couple – anticipating every move, feeling, and reaction!!
I love BOTH of your favorite kissing scenes – number one (1)for it’s length, and love/hate intensity, number two(2) for it’s innocence, and the way it kind of sneaks up on me (and the characters). The comment by Parker is hilarious!!
I read an article in which you described the way you rehearse the scenes for your books – I must say that the rehearsal for these two (2) scenes would have to be one of the most enjoyable parts of your writing (LOL)!! SO glad you have plenty of storylines in mind for lots more books with those wonderful kissing scenes, as I can’t get enough!! Love you, your books, and those beautiful kissing scenes, Julie!!
On February 3, 2014 at 9:37 am
Julie Lessman says:
Grin … come on, Bonnie, admit it … it’s not just the kisses that “exhaust” you!! I do my level best to “exhaust” my readers in every single way I can — be it tension, angst, drama or sighs — I’m not happy unless I’m putting somebody through the wringer. And really, it’s better that way so I can expend all my “drama” into my character’s relationships instead of my own … 😉 Self-preservation, if you will, for both me AND for Keith! 🙂
Love you, too, my friend!!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 9:56 am
Kaitlynn Moore says:
Both kissing scenes were heart pounding, but my favorite was scene 1. My pulse was racing, my toes curled, and my heart wouldn’t stop racing; it took my breath away. I felt like I was really there, experiencing it. You are one of my favorite authors for that very reason- your use of details!
On February 3, 2014 at 9:54 am
Julie Lessman says:
Thanks, Kait, for your kind words! And that’s what I like to hear — a little toe-curling going on because that’s how God created us — as a passionate people with whom He wants a love affair that evokes the same kind of longing in us for HIM!!
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 10:02 am
Denise Grice says:
I read this book and remember these scenes very well! I loved them then and loved re-reading them now! Thanks for sharing again!!! I love your books!!!
On February 3, 2014 at 10:22 am
Julie Lessman says:
WOW, Denise, thanks SO much for your sweet comment and especially for “re-reading” my books — that’s one of the highest compliments you can pay an author, so BLESS YOU!!
Good luck in the contest, too! 😉
Hugs,
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 2:21 pm
Susan Snodgrass says:
Phew! I want my husband to come home so I can kiss him!
On February 3, 2014 at 1:40 pm
Julie Lessman says:
LOL, Susan … ah, yes, but absence does make the heart grow fonder, so just re-read the scenes after he comes home … 😉
I must say that’s one of the perks that I have because my husband and I live/work together 24/7, so I can try out certain moves and kisses on him to make sure I get the action just right on paper … 😉
Hugs,
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 2:24 pm
Bonnie Roof says:
Exactly what I meant in my comment that rehearing the kissing scenes had to be one of the most enjoyable parts of your writing (LOL)!!! That’s why the kissing scenes in your books are so perfect – all that rehearsing (LOL)!!!
On February 3, 2014 at 3:09 pm
sparksofember says:
To date, my favorite literary kiss is between Jem & Tessa in Clockwork Prince. But those two favorite scenes above are spicy!! 😉
On February 3, 2014 at 2:50 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, Lady Spark, SO fun to see you here, girl, and gosh, I would LOVE to see a few lines of that kiss from Clockwork Prince!! I’m guessing it’s an ABA book (secular market) rather than CBA (Christian market), and if so, is it sweet or spicy? I might have to read it if you tell me it’s sweet. 🙂
And, LOL … yeah, my kiss scenes are definitely “spicy” in the CBA, but in the ABA??? They’d be pablum!! 🙂
Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK!!
HUGS,
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 8:23 pm
Sparksofember says:
It starts sweet, then gets spicy, then gets cut short just in time. Definitely secular but very good scene. 😉
On February 4, 2014 at 11:11 am
Sparksofember says:
Here are the two scenes Carla & I referred to: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1widjBrl3kilIxRwTC4lk4qalYnBixo_QaV-MNyJRnGU
On February 4, 2014 at 11:40 am
Carla says:
CC writes a great kiss. Personally, I’d say Will and Tessa (in which book? I can’t remember)… you know, the balcony at the ball with the hairpins. *grin*
I’d been letting the Queen of Kissing preside over the festivities, but I can’t pass up a chance to talk Clockwork anything. 🙂
On February 3, 2014 at 9:07 pm
Sparksofember says:
lol – I know the kiss you are referring to. It was very good, too, I just preferred Jem over Will. 😉
On February 4, 2014 at 11:08 am
Carla says:
Team Will here. I like the bad boy, especially when he’s not so bad. That reminds me, I really have to go finish Clockwork Princess. Stupid deadlines!
On February 4, 2014 at 12:47 pm
Sparksofember says:
Me, too. I’ve only read a few chapters so far. But I’ve been dawdling because I figure the ending is probably the way you want, vs the way I want. 😉
On February 4, 2014 at 12:52 pm
Carla says:
I’m dawdling because I’m afraid of the same thing, just in reverse! LOL We are both cowards. 🙂
On February 4, 2014 at 6:47 pm
Micaela Wood says:
My favorite of Julie’s kissing scenes would have to be the very end of A Light in the Window….Marcy and Patrick are sooooooo cute 😉
On February 3, 2014 at 3:06 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, Micaela, thank you SO much!! And you know what? You can thank my hubby for that. He’s the tame one in our family, I’m afraid, so he has to rein me in. What I mean by that is, ALITW is definitely the sweetest of all my books so far (except for Dare to Love Again, which is now the sweetest), and my hubby is the reason why.
You see, he reads all of my books and LOVED ALITW — said it was his favorite so far when he was reading it. But when he finished it, he came down to my lower deck where I write and was actually mad at me. “You have this wonderful, sweet love story, Julie, and what do you do? You throw a sex scene in the end.” He was SO mad that I told him I would tone it down and make it more fun and less sexy, which I did. Not that it was overly passionate before, mind you, but I figured after writing a whole book that was pretty toned down from my normal passion level, I was entitled to a little heated romance once the hero and heroine were married, right?
WRONG!! “Is it gonna kill you to have one simple, sweet book, Julie???” he asked. “No, babe, it won’t kill me,” I said, and promptly toned it down. And you know what? Now I’m glad I listened to him. 🙂
Hugs and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 8:35 pm
Kayla Hughes says:
I like the 2nd kissing scene better because it more romantic and it’s very sweet!
On February 3, 2014 at 6:19 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, Kayla, it IS sweet, isn’t it? No wall-pushing there, just a pretty passionate kiss of gratitude, not anger like in the first scene. And from a “sweet” stance, I like it better too, because it has SO many wonderful emotions in it and no anger. 🙂
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 8:39 pm
s m says:
I’ve noticed some very good kissing scenes on Downton Abbey recently. Thanks for the contest, giveaways and books.
On February 3, 2014 at 6:45 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, S.M. … would you believe I am not a Downton Abby fan??? I tried to watch it in the beginning, but couldn’t get into it, which is odd since my first Irish family saga takes place at the same time (WWI), a time period I absolutely LOVE! But … maybe if I saw a kiss or two, they’d win me over!! 😉
SM … I don’t know if you have read any of my books before, but if not, I strongly encourage you to check out a FREE DOWNLOAD going on right now of my first book, A Passion Most Pure, which won American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Book of the Year and currently had 350 five-star reviews on Amazon. Here’s the link if you want to check it out, and I hope you do: http://www.amazon.com/Passion-Most-Pure-Daughters-Boston-ebook/dp/B…
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
On February 3, 2014 at 8:50 pm
Carla says:
Just had to pop in here. Thanks for such a great post and starting such a great discussion, Julie! Literary kisses are always a crowdpleaser. 🙂
On February 3, 2014 at 9:09 pm
Julie Lessman says:
You’re more than welcome, Carla — thanks for hosting me!
When you asked me to be on your blog, you had me at “kiss”!! 😉 It’s no secret I’m a sucker for a kiss of any kind — from butterfly kisses to the wall-pushing kind, so I’m wondering what that says about my childhood??? Not kissed nearly enough, apparently, which on the flip side, makes for some pretty emotional and angsty books!! 🙂
Hugs
Julie
On February 4, 2014 at 7:51 am
Amanda says:
I love the kissing scene with Patrick and Marcy in A Light in the Window. Marcy finally accepts that Patrick is the man for her and Patrick finally gets the woman he desires. It was so sweet and heart warming that I had to jump right into A Passion Most Pure to see how their lives turned out.
On February 4, 2014 at 1:57 am
Julie Lessman says:
LOL, Amanda … so my devious plan worked??? Good to know! 😉 But you’re just getting started darlin’, so I hope you continue because the next five books contain some pretty passionate, dramatic, and out-of-thin air twists that many of my readers have likened to a roller-coaster! 🙂
Good luck and HAPPY READING!!
Julie
On February 4, 2014 at 7:54 am
Amanda says:
Looking forward to it. My favorite passion scene in A Passion Most Pure was when Patrick came home from Brannigan’s. It was the very thing in which I can see why Faith wanted a marriage like her parents, full of passion with God in the center.
In fact, when I get married someday, I want a marriage like Patrick and Marcy too.:)
On February 4, 2014 at 1:31 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Well, then, I have good news for you, my friend — Marcy and Patrick’s marriage is based on my husband’s and mine, so it IS possible!! 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
On February 4, 2014 at 8:10 pm
Amanda says:
Amen,hallelujah and praise God for that!
On February 4, 2014 at 10:45 pm
Sharon Timmer says:
Favorite literary kiss – that’s a tough one but since I just read A Passion Most Pure I would have to say several of the kisses in that book took my breath away 🙂
On February 4, 2014 at 11:17 am
Julie Lessman says:
YAY, Sharon, I SO appreciate you reading APMP, my friend, and if you liked it, I sure hope you consider posting a short review because if you do, I can enter you in my newsletter contest to have a character named after you in my next book and a signed copy. But … if reviews are NOT your thing, no worries!! I am just thrilled you read my book in the 1st place! 🙂
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
On February 4, 2014 at 12:10 pm
Belinda says:
Those are hard ones to choose from! Both are great in their own way. 1 is perhaps more passionate – or maybe just more range of emotion is shown. 2 is sweeter, less volatile, but still just as passionate as 1. I don’t know which to choose! … I guess I’ll go with 1. It was their first kiss and I did enjoy their going at it afterward. Katie and Luke were both angry (though Luke did start it) and determined to wound the other. Also, it was when Katie first admitted that she had feelings for Luke. So 1 wins. 🙂
Thanks for a chance to win one of your books, Julie!
~Belinda
On February 4, 2014 at 12:49 pm
Julie Lessman says:
YAY, Belinda … I’m with you on #1! I, too, like the sparring that goes on, which is good for my hubby because it means I put all of that sparring in my books so our marriage is smooth sailing … uh, most of the time. But “sparring” even stirs the pot of a wonderful marriage, to, eh?
Hugs and good luck!
Julie
On February 4, 2014 at 1:15 pm
Abbi Hart says:
YOU EXPECT US TO PICK?!?!?! I tried but I can’t! I love both scenes so much and they are so different that I can’t really compare them!
And now you have me missing the O’Conners again even though I literally finished them less than three weeks ago! I think I could be allowed to only read those books for a year and still never tire of them! The second I finish I just want to start all over!
On February 5, 2014 at 5:24 pm
Abbi Hart says:
Just read the instructions to say my favorite literary kiss, and honestly I don’t know but it would probably be one of Julie’s-those always make me melt!
On February 5, 2014 at 5:32 pm
Julie Lessman says:
ABS!!! You always make me smile, my friend, and those O’Connors do get under one’s skin, don’t they?? Especially those Irish men! 😉
Thanks SO much, Abbi, for your incredible support — you are a gem, girlfriend!!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 5, 2014 at 6:43 pm
Lady DragonKeeper says:
Whoa, I may have to read the Clockwork Angel series later … 😉
Hands down, Julie Lessman writes the best kisses in CBA and I can’t choose just one!
For a specific kiss, I always pick my “first kiss” between the main characters in the DragonKeeper Chronicles. It was very sweet, but made an huge impact, because they were the first couple I really “shipped” together (i.e. rooted for) in literature. Donita K. Paul also incorporated the mindspeaking ability that people in her fantasy world had, so that also made it different. =)
On February 6, 2014 at 11:45 pm
Sparksofember says:
Lady Dragonkeeper, now I want to go reread that scene. I remember being happy that they finally got together but I don’t remember the kiss! I did love how the two of them were so in-sync mentally.
On February 7, 2014 at 8:40 am
Julie Lessman says:
LADY SPARK!!! Thanks SO much for taking the time to include those scenes — WOW!! Looks like I’ll be adding Clockwork Angel to my TBR … 😉
Hugs,
Julie
On February 8, 2014 at 9:36 am
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, LDK, thanks SO much for your sweet comment, and it sounds like we both need to get our mitts on this Clockwork Angel since it’s been mentioned here several times. I’m not too much into Steampunk (is that the right word?), but I’m game to give it a try. 🙂
Good luck!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 8, 2014 at 9:34 am
Lady DragonKeeper says:
@Sparkofember. –Yeah, they’re one of my favorite couples ever (probably because they were my first). 😀
@*Ms.* Julie — I know, right? I don’t really have an excuse, since my library has it … also, I think there’s a movie in the works also …
On February 12, 2014 at 2:07 pm
Wilani Wahl says:
My favorite kiss is #1. I love Julie’s books and would love to win a copy of one of her books.
On February 7, 2014 at 7:57 am
Julie Lessman says:
LANI!! I would LOVE to send you a signed book, darlin’, so here’s to a win!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 8, 2014 at 9:37 am
Linda Marie Finn says:
I like both ways… ones where suspense is just killing you and you have to put the book down its so hot….I did that with one of your books already Jules… and I do like it hot,up against the wall , claim staking kind…smile
Linda Marie Finn
On February 7, 2014 at 7:58 am
Julie Lessman says:
LOL, LINDA … then we are two peas in a pod, my friend, wall-pushers both!! Now WHY does that NOT surprise me??? 😉
Hugs!!
Julie
On February 8, 2014 at 9:39 am
Linda Marie Finn says:
A Lady of my fine reputation,but stubborn strong will, well we have to be tamed somehow Jules…
Smile
Linda
On February 8, 2014 at 11:45 am
Linda Marie Finn says:
Haven’t you heard that song I should have kissed you ? Its a country song…lol Now I am going to have you find it and send it to you…lol
Madame Linda Marie Finn
On February 9, 2014 at 8:55 am
Patricia Bradley says:
Great scenes! I have A Hope Undaunted on my Kindle and you can bet I’ll be reading it tonight!
On February 8, 2014 at 9:30 am
Julie Lessman says:
PATRICIA, YAY!!! Glad I could hook you, my friend, but a word of warning: if you have NOT read A Passion Most Pure yet, then can I ask a favor? Can you hop on over to this link and download it for free? You see, this is a series best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises that would be ruined if you read AHU first. AHU may be book 1 in the Winds of Change series, but it’s actually book 4 in this family saga, so as long as APMP is free, PLEASE start there if you can, okay? AND, I’m happy to say, APMP won ACFW’s 2009 Debut Book of the Year and has 365 five-star reviews on Amazon, so it’s not a dog, I promise! 🙂 Here’s the link:
http://amzn.to/1c5qTpO
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
On February 8, 2014 at 9:43 am
Janice H says:
I am not a spammer. Please help
On February 8, 2014 at 10:39 am
Janice H says:
Wow, that’s a hard question. I read so many books! I guess two of my favorite literary kisses come from A LIGHT IN THE WINDOW and A PASSION MOST PURE. I loved both of sets of main characters and felt their kisses sizzle.
On February 8, 2014 at 10:42 am
Julie Lessman says:
Aw, thanks SO much, Janice — appreciate that! And, yeah, I am partial to kisses that sizzle!! 😉
Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
On February 8, 2014 at 10:50 am
Tonja Saylor says:
I just downloaded A Passion Mist Pure onto my kindle. You all have my curiosity up and I think I will start there!
On February 8, 2014 at 11:37 am
Julie Lessman says:
TONJA, good girl!! SO appreciate you starting with APMP, and PLEASE let me know if you like it, okay? And if not? Uh … well, never mind … 😉
Hugs,
Julie
On February 8, 2014 at 1:12 pm
Nancy M. says:
Scene #2 is my favorite. It just is sweet. I loved that scene where she tells him that she has a home for Gabe. They were just themselves, nothing else mattered at that moment. Well done Julie as with every kissing scene you write.
On February 8, 2014 at 1:24 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Aw, thanks, NANCE — SO appreciate your kind comment and just coming by! I agree that scene is “sweet” and displays just about every emotion I know how to do, including fear earlier on in the scene. 🙂
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
On February 8, 2014 at 4:44 pm
Maxie Anderson says:
Hello Julie girl. I would pick the #2 in A Hope undaunted. Slower and more tender. Leaves the thoughts of what will next time be? I would love to win one of your books. Thanks to you and Carla for a chance. Maxie mac262(at)me(dot)com
On February 8, 2014 at 4:51 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, MAXIE, good to see you here, girl, and good choice with #2 — it is slower and more tender for sure.
You’ve been trying a long time to get a signed book, so here’s hoping THIS one is the charm!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 8, 2014 at 7:28 pm
Mary Koester says:
Hey Julie girl! You are everywhere! I am going to miss you when you take your hiatus. I totally understand the necessity of a breather now and then. Social promotion and media can consume a person’s life if they are not careful. One has to stop and take time for a kiss now and then!! Love those books!
Mary
On February 11, 2014 at 12:44 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Thanks, MARE, and I’ll miss sweet reader friends like you, too, but I will be on Seekerville once a month and still posting an occasional Journal Jot and promo-ing for others on FB here and there, so I’ll still be around. 🙂
SO appreciate your support and wish you good luck in this contest. 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 11:50 am
Mary Koester says:
Oops! Left out my favorite literary kiss! I am thinking it might be Gone with the Wind. That was my first real brush with romance when I was very young. Just made my toes tingle to read abut it and it still does.
On February 11, 2014 at 12:51 pm
Julie Lessman says:
LOL, MARY … I KNEW there was a reason I loved you!! Gotta love ANY kiss in GWTW, eh? Those are the kisses that started me down the romance-writing path in the first place. 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 11:52 am
shelia hall says:
I favorite kiss from a movie is of course Gone with the wind! Rhett & Scarlett is so great!
On February 11, 2014 at 2:50 pm
Julie Lessman says:
SHELIA, YES!!! Like I told Mary above, those kisses from GWTW were branded on my soul, sending me down the path to my career as a romance writer, so YES, YES, YES!!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 11:53 am
Melody Durant says:
Julie can make an old woman of 54 feel young again, with those kissing scenes! Never stop writing!
On February 11, 2014 at 4:10 pm
shelia hall says:
You are right Melody! Julie can make you feel like you are getting the kiss right along with the heroine!
On February 12, 2014 at 11:16 am
Julie Lessman says:
LOL, SHELIA … there are some 1-star reviewers that don’t like that about my book, but they are sure in the minority when you consider the romance market is a multi-billion-dollar industry, eh? 😉
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 11:56 am
Julie Lessman says:
LOL, MEL … that’s because I can make a 63-year-old juvenile delinquent feel young again, too, so don’t worry — I don’t plan on stopping anytime too soon. 🙂
Thanks for your support, my friend, and GOOD LUCK!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 11:54 am
Wanda Barefoot says:
Julie! You never fail to make me smile and that’s why I follow you all around the web. LOL Talk about passion. I LOVED Dare to Love Again. That book had everything, including tension and sparks between the two main characters and PASSION! I laughed, I cried and I made good use of the A/C. LOL Love you, Miss Julie, and I LOVE your books! I Need A Passion Denied to go with my set so thank you for the chance. 🙂
On February 11, 2014 at 10:02 pm
Wanda Barefoot says:
My favorite literary kiss? Oh my gosh that’s so hard. But I will say Allison and Nick from Dare to Love Again because I just loved the sparks between the two. That made the kissing scenes SO much better!
On February 11, 2014 at 10:06 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Oh, WANDA, trust me — YOU never fail to make ME smile either, my sweet friend, God’s truth!! And, WOW, Nick and Alli’s kisses are your faves? See??? That realllly makes me smile!! 😉
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 12:29 pm
Linda Marie Finn says:
A Kiss is just a kiss, A Smile is just a smile….
I am so loving all the fun and love being spread arround… So excited for the future and well just call me crazy, but you know the new goal !!!! To own every Julie Lessman book there is….
Hugs
Linda Marie Finn
faithfulacresbooks@gmail.com
On February 12, 2014 at 7:18 am
Julie Lessman says:
LOL, LINDA … well I would say you are WELL on your way, my friend, so here’s to “another” win!! 😉
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 12:30 pm
Linda Marie Finn says:
Wait that is right its not just a kiss , its a calorie burning way to loose weight. Did you also know that hugs and kisses , keep the colds at bay…. true true…
LOL
Linda
On February 13, 2014 at 1:55 pm
Wendy Newcomb says:
Thank you so much for the chance to win one of Julie’s books.
wfnren(at)aol(dot)com
On February 12, 2014 at 7:23 am
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, WENDY, you are MORE than welcome, my friend, so here’s hoping you pull out a win! 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 12:31 pm
Candice Valdez says:
I love all the kisses in your books, Julie! I also like the scenes in Marcia McClure’s books. You both make my toes curl!!
candicervaldez at gmail dot com
On February 12, 2014 at 11:21 am
Julie Lessman says:
Aw, thanks SO much, CANDICE!! And, gosh, it sounds like I need to get my mitts on Marcia McClure’s books, don’t I??!! 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 12:32 pm
Brittany McEuen says:
Yep, I am convinced that Julie writes the best kissing scenes…no doubt about it. Of the two scenes, I pick #1 as my favorite. Something about the fact that it started out by Luke realizing Katie might be attracted to him and then he just couldn’t help himself. Also, started gentle and then became all-consuming. Gotta love that!
On February 12, 2014 at 1:48 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Aw, BRITT … see?? This is only one of the MANY reasons I love you, kiddo!! 😉
I agree TOTALLY with your reasoning on #1 — those are my thoughts too. 🙂
Good luck, my friend, and thanks for coming by.
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 2:01 pm
Heidi says:
My favorite literary kiss is between Philip and Marianne in Julianne Donaldson’s Edenbrooke.
On February 12, 2014 at 2:09 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, HEIDI … I’ve never heard of that book, so it looks like I need to check it out! Thanks for coming by and here’s to a win!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 3:00 pm
Angelica M says:
I have always loved Julie Lessman. She’s one of my favorite authors. Her romanceology book is amazing. Any romance writer should want to take a bite out of that book.
On February 12, 2014 at 3:36 pm
Julie Lessman says:
ANGELICA, you sweetheart, you — THANK YOU soooo much for your very kind comment.
And I don’t know if you post reviews or not, but if you do do one for Romance-ology, I wanted to let you know about a newsletter contest I have going on now through 3/31/14 where posting even one short review for any of my books will enter you to win a character named after you in my next book, a signed copy, and if you are the top poster, a $50 gift card. So if you’re interested, just sign up for my newsletter (I send out two a year) at http://www.julielessman.com/sign-up-for-newsletter/, and I will send you the info, okay? But if reviews are not your thing, NO WORRIES, okay? I’m just grateful you read my books in the first place!! 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 3:40 pm
Elizabeth Dent says:
I love your books and would love to win your book . Thanks
lizd225(at)gmail (dot)com
On February 12, 2014 at 3:46 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, ELIZABETH, thank you SO much, my friend, and GOOD LUCK in the contest!’
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 9:35 pm
Pam K. says:
I like scene number two best because it seems sweeter, not as rough. It’s been awhile since I read the book so I can’t remember which scene comes first.
On February 12, 2014 at 3:55 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, PAM … scene #1 comes first, about 1/4 into the book, then scene #2 comes about halfway. 🙂
GOOD LUCK, my friend, and here’s to a win!!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 9:36 pm
Jane Squires says:
I do not have a favorite
On February 12, 2014 at 7:22 pm
Julie Lessman says:
LOL … short and sweet, eh, JANE?? Thanks for coming by and good luck!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 9:37 pm
Melanie Backus says:
I love the kiss of Rhett and Scarlett in Gone With The Wind.
mauback55 at gmail dot com
On February 12, 2014 at 8:41 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Oh, MEL … move over, girlfriend, because I love ALL the Scarlett/Rhett kisses in GWTW, but my fave is the one at the end of the book where he carries her up the staircase. 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 9:38 pm
Virginia Winfield says:
Your books are all very good. Always look forward to the next ones.
On February 12, 2014 at 8:53 pm
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, VIRGINIA, thank you VERY much, my friend, and here’s hoping you can pull out a win!!
Hugs,
Julie
On February 12, 2014 at 9:38 pm
Becky B says:
I like scene #2. I really like the emotional lead up, and love the ending with red faces. Thanks for the chance.
On February 13, 2014 at 9:24 am
Becky B says:
In the book a Hope Undaunted. Sorry forgot to include that.
On February 13, 2014 at 9:25 am
Julie Lessman says:
Hey, BECK, thanks for coming by to leave a comment, and I’m pretty fond of #2 as well. I just LOVE the range of emotions the hero goes through. 🙂
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!
JULIE
On February 13, 2014 at 11:22 am
Linda Marie Finn says:
Well, here I am again popping over to say howdy ! I joined all the giveaways so far and am hoping for a win !!!
Hugs
Linda
On February 16, 2014 at 7:19 pm
K M-E says:
As a man, I love a good kissing scene. I agree that the setup and afterward, the surging emotions and the meaning of the kiss, are everything.
I’m another fan of “wall-pushing,” as you describe it. I appreciate that you aren’t afraid to shy away from passion in romance. I think too many Christian authors, in an attempt to stay within conservative sexual ethics, strip too much emotion and romance out of their characters. I think more Christian authors should be willing to write scenes like that one from The Notebook. Even, to put it delicately, going as far as the part where Noah carries Rachel down the upstairs hall, including (again, to be delicate), how he holds her and what happens with their clothes, but stopping outside the bedroom (or in the bedroom but not what follows). I think authors should even explore characters making choices that compromise their ethics (so including the bedroom part of the scene).
Obviously Christian authors should steer clear or writing full-on erotica, but that grey area before that is part of real-life romance and should be explored. The fun, the thrills, maybe regrets. I think a lot can be insinuated without detail (e.g., a couple kisses passionately, someone knocks on the door, and the couple hastily re-button their respective shirts).
Again, I appreciate this post.
On July 8, 2023 at 8:33 am
K M-E says:
Oops, *Noah* carries *Allie*, or *Ryan* carries*Rachel*
On July 8, 2023 at 10:11 am