The MEN I Love To Write About
By Syrie James
I’m honored to be part of Austenesque Extravaganza, where I want to talk about HEROES … the men I love to write about in my novels, the kind of men I find sexy and romantic, and why. But first, there are two things I ought to mention, right off the bat. One: physically, all the heroes in my books share one common trait: they are very, very good-looking. Stunningly handsome, in fact, with perfect physiques, and they’re all great kissers. Would we want it any other way?
Two: I adore Jane Austen. I’ve re-read her novels so many times I’ve lost count. I’ve pored over her letters and biographies time and again, seeking hidden clues to the mysteries of her life and mindset. I’ve traveled to England and walked in Austen’s footsteps. I’ve watched and adored all the movie adaptations many times over. I love dressing up in a Regency gown, and have danced at many a JASNA ball. I have studied Austen’s life and the Regency era in such detail, I could write a dissertation on either subject. Instead, I wroteThe Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen, the story of Jane Austen’s secret romance with the one, true love of her life—a novel which I’m thrilled to say became a bestseller, and which is truly a work of my heart.
Jane Austen wrote love stories that are so compelling, I believe she must have had a deeply meaningful love affair of her own—and the heroes in all my novels are, in one way or another, shaped and inspired by the best traits of the men I loved and admired in her books. InThe Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen, it was a thrill to envision the kind of man I think Jane Austen would have fallen head over heels in love with—and who would have loved her back with all his heart. His name is Mr. Frederick Ashford. Their romance is interwoven with the true story of Austen’s life. Many readers have told me it’s difficult to separate fact from fiction—that they believe this romance really happened—which is music to my ears! Mr. Ashford is dashing, charismatic, highly intelligent, passionate, sensitive, and well-read—a sort of amalgam of Mr. Darcy and Mr. Knightley. He is also rich. (Rich is good, but of course not a requirement in a hero!) He has an excellent sense of humor—a necessity for a great hero in my eyes (and certainly in Jane Austen’s.) He and Jane initially connect via stimulating conversation about books, and later, when he discovers Jane’s talent for storytelling, Mr. Ashford rekindles her faith in herself and encourages her to follow her passion and become a novelist. He believes in Jane’s genius, respects and supports her dreams, and is willing to sacrifice everything to put her happiness and well being first—which to me is a sign of true love, and one reason I find Mr. Ashford so sympathetic and sexy.
The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Brontëis the true story of the remarkable life of the author of Jane Eyre, and her little-known, fiery romance with an Irish clergyman, Mr. Arthur Bell Nicholls. After intensive research, I strove to stay true to history in bringing the Brontës and Mr. Nicholls to life. At first meeting, Mr. Nicholls seems a bit stiff and narrow-minded, and he says just the wrong thing to Charlotte, making her despise him (think: Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice.) But still waters run deep. Mr. Nicholls is an honest, good-hearted, hard-working, excellent man who loves children and animals and can charm a dog with a look or a word (all fine qualities in a hero.) He is devoted to Charlotte, her family, and their community, and he grows and changes throughout the novel. He is secretly in love with Charlotte for years, long before she becomes a famous author. When he finally reveals the depth of his feelings, his impassioned marriage proposal sets Charlotte’s life and the entire village into turmoil. I find Mr. Nicholls to be the very essence of a romantic hero—especially when his true nature is revealed on their wedding night, and in the surprising action that follows in the last volume of theThe Secret Diaries of Charlotte Brontë.
I get goose bumps every time I think about the hero in Dracula, My Love. In truth, there are two heroes in this story of Mina Harker’s secret, passionate romance with the most powerful vampire of them all. But although Mina’s husband, Jonathan Harker, is worthy and true, I’ll restrict my focus here to the vampire of my dreams: Nicolae Dracula. Bram Stoker left many gaps in his Victorian novel, which gave me plenty of room to invent twists and turns in the story, add romance, flesh out the characters, and rethink his portrayal of Dracula. Unlike Stoker’s monster, my Dracula is a sophisticated, extremely well-educated, wealthy, chivalrous man with a heart and a conscience (again, like Mr. Darcy and Mr. Knightley!), who’s taken advantage of his gift of immortality to improve his mind and talents. (At 400+ years he should be good at everything, don’t you think? And I do mean everything.) He can move at the speed of light, appear out of dust or mist, morph into a wolf, control the weather, and influence people’s minds… all of which can be a bit scary… but when he sees Mina across a crowded dance floor, it’s as if she’s the only woman in the room (another true hero requirement for me.) He’s a dangerous man, but he’ll do anything for the woman he loves, and that blood drinking thing is incredibly sexy. Although Mina has no idea Dracula’s a vampire when they first meet, she swoons and falls madly in love … and admittedly, while writingDracula, My Love, so did I.
I’m excited about my upcoming novel,Forbidden, which I co-wrote with my talented son Ryan. It’s the story of Claire Brennan, a 16-year-old girl who comes into unusual powers, only to make a shocking discovery about her parentage. She learns that her entire existence is forbidden… as is her love for the book’s hero, Alec MacKenzie, a strong, sensitive, brilliant being with unique powers of his own. Alec is an angel who’s fed up with his duties to watch and, when necessary, eliminate the descendants of his angelic forefathers. All he wants is to live like a human—to be normal for once—which is why he’s gone AWOL. But he hadn’t factored Claire into his plans. When the source of Claire’s powers is discovered and Alec’s true nature is revealed, the two have fallen in love, and there is no turning back; but Claire’s life is in danger, and Alec may have to give up everything to protect her. I love Alec because he is everything a hero should be: good, decent, and true—a powerful genius with the looks of Adonis and the voice of an angel, who’s determined to fight for what’s right—and he has his priorities straight: he puts his woman first. Forbidden will be published by HarperTeen onJanuary 24, 2012.
Looking back, I realize that the heroes in all my books share at least four defining traits, which are the hallmarks of every worthy Austen hero: they are highly intelligent, well-read, devoted, and passionate. Every one of my heroes, for good reason, is obliged to withhold his deep feelings for the woman he loves until a passionate, defining moment, when he finally expresses his true emotions, and reveals his heart—just as Captain Wentworth did at the end of Persuasion. (Did I mention that they’re passionate?) I find that kind of vulnerability in a man incredibly thrilling.
So which of my heroes do I like best? Okay, I admit it… I love them all!
WHAT’S NEXT:
I have two Jane Austen works coming up: my short story kicks off the anthology Jane Austen Made Me Do It, to be published by Ballantine Books on Oct. 11, 2011. The collection includes never-before-published short stories by 24 authors, inspired by Jane Austen, her novels, and her philosophies of life and love. It’s edited by Laurel Ann Nattress ofaustenprose.com. When I was approached to contribute a story, I decided to write from Jane’s POV, as I did inThe Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen. I thought, what if Jane had just completed Emma, was undecided about what to write next, and was both haunted and guided by her own characters? The result is “Jane Austen’s Nightmare.” I hope you enjoy the story! Currently, I’m writing a new, Jane Austen-themed novel for Berkeley, an imprint of Penguin Books. The subject matter is top secret … but I’m having a wonderful time returning to my Austen roots! To learn more about me and my books, please friend me onfacebook, follow me on Twitter, and visit syriejames.com, where I invite you to read reviews and excerpts of all my novels, and sign up for my newsletter.
What kind of heroes do you love to read about?
What do you think makes a man romantic, sexy, and desirable?
Who are some of your favorite heroes in novels and films (and real life)?
I look forward to your thoughts and comments!
You know, just last night I wished there were more beta heroes around. Sure I love the strong man who protects and loves his woman. But I guess I want more nerdy heroes too.
Kindness, yes I think that is the recipe for me.
I love Mr Thornton in North and South 😀
To quote one of my favorite authors: Heroes must be
“very, very good-looking. Stunningly handsome, in fact, with perfect physiques, and they’re all great kissers….they are highly intelligent, well-read, devoted, and passionate. Every one of my heroes, for good reason, is obliged to withhold his deep feelings for the woman he loves until a passionate, defining moment, when he finally expresses his true emotions, and reveals his heart—just as Captain Wentworth did at the end of Persuasion.”
That’s it – well said. Very Happy to hear there is more of your work coming soon!
Usually I’m charmed by mysterious, intelligent, passionate heroes. They must be dark haired and strong-willed. Brooding heroes hiding secrets or feelings, but capable of deep, overwhelming emotions amd true love like Thornton, Wentworth, Rochester or your Michael Tyler.
Then I have a tendency to be fascinated by baddies, libertines and rogues.
Ooh, I love the cultured, intelligent, misunderstood heroes. Physical characteristics aren’t as important, but they must be smart and misunderstood. 🙂 I love The Scarlet Pimpernel, Rochester, Gilbert Blythe…*sigh*
I pretty much agree with your hero characteristics and can’t really think of anything to add. I love that at least one of your heroes plays the piano. That is sexy, and in my mind Mr Darcy also plays piano, although few know about it. I almost always envision them with dark hair, even when they are depicted otherwise. Your books sound amazing and I am looking forward to getting my hands on them. How cool that you cowrote one with your son! That must have been quite an experience.
I would love to go on tours and walks pertaining to JA’s life and novels. Unfortunately, I live in Singapore. I have visited Bath and saw the house she stayed in when in Bath though. My dream wedding gown is a Regency era gown 🙂
Mr Ashford sounds really good as a lover 🙂 Lucky is JA in your book 🙂
I would like a lover similar to Mr Nicholls who is into children and dogs especially. He does not loves CB only when she becomes famous. This smacks of true love. He loves her for who she really is. I love the idea of his transformation too, somewhat like Mr Darcy.
Michael Tyler is a pianist! I like!
Ooo, I like the 4 qualities of your heroes and the way their love is expressed. I want my dream husband to be like that too!
I like to read about heroes who notice when their ladies are troubled and are there for their ladies to run to for comfort, somewhat like a SNAG. At the same time, they protect the ladies as males ought to.
A romantic and desirable man is someone who is sweet and tender towards his lady. It can be the little things he does for her, rather than the usually dramatic gestures of romance, that touch her heart.
My favourite heroes are definitely Mr Darcy and my bestie who would make any girl lucky to have him as her partner. 🙂
I like my hero’s to be strong, intelligent, and to have a sense of humor, but a little brooding doesn’t hurt either.
Nocturne was such a fabulous and unique story that it is not forgotten.
Thanks for sharing Syrie.
HOW COOL! Writing a book with your son! I have seen this around and am very excited to read it. Thanks for letting us know, Syrie!
I don’t like the perfect hero. I want to see some flaw, although not necessarily in looks!! He needs to change in the story – there needs to be some growth, some mistakes made and some maturing. Not to “stir the pot,” but I had a lot of trouble with the Edward Cullen character in the popular Twilight series, because there never seemed to be change – and he was just a little too overprotective, a little too overbearing for my tastes. She should’ve picked Jacob! That’s why I think these classic heroes are better written – they aren’t perfect, they only appear that way; we respond to them because they are more like the men we know in our own lives, or rather they have similar characteristics to the men around us. We all have a little Darcy and Lizzy inside of us.
Syrie, I’m a huge fan of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre, so your book sounds like a very, very compelling read for me. As a matter of fact, all of the books you mentioned here sound wonderful. I can’t wait to dive in and lose myself in your world!
Best,
Susan
Some of my favorite heros have been flawed!
I have read and enjoyed The Lost memoirs of Jane Austen. I currently have The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Bronte – I do love Jane Eyre. I haven’t read it yet tho’ it’s on my nightstand. I’m not into supernatural anything so the others haven’t appealed to me. I like a strong hero but one that knows when to be tender, compassionate, understanding and can communicate well. The witty ones are best in my mind. I can’t stand it when they have nothing to say.
delited to find you here, Syrie! your spotlight is a beautiful introduction and i anticipate many happy hours exploring your work.
thank you for so generously sharing with us!
for me, kindness & compassion are huge factors – core values – undivided heart, focus, inclusion, exclusivity in relationship, strong features, good looks, build, strength physically and of character…
faves? Cptn Wentworth! from fiction. real life?
my father and my own sons “) good men, strong & handsome, with hearts of honour molded by Love!
I loved The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen and The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Bronte, both were wonderful stories. I like a strong hero who is passionate, tender and wants to protect the woman he loves. I want him to love her completely, even with all her flaws! My favorite heroes are Mr. Darcy, Mr. Knightley, Mr. Rochester and Gilbert Blythe!
I loved The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen and The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Bronte, both were wonderful stories. I like a strong hero who is passionate, tender and wants to protect the woman he loves. I want him to love her completely, even with all her flaws! My favorite heroes are Mr. Darcy, Mr. Knightley, Mr. Rochester and Gilbert Blythe!
Really interesting post, thanks for sharing it with us!
I love heroes who make me laugh, in intelligent ways. Love a well-read, smart guy…a little bit of smart ass-ness is okay, so long as it’s not obnoxious ;o)
Mmm, Gilbert Blythe…love-love-love him! Also love Almanzo Wilder (that gentling wild horses thing? HOTT!)…and I really love Edward Ferrars too.
And the Beast. I’ve got a thing for the Beast. ;o)
I think I’m in love…
The men in my life are Mr. Darcy (of course), Capt. Wentworth, Mr. Thornton, Percy Blakeney, Robin Hood and Sir Gawain. I love the darkly handsome, passionate, protective, mysterious type with secrets. I also like a guy who can handle himself in a fight and looks great in a wet shirt. 🙂
Thank you for the fun post! Your books just hit my to-read list. 🙂
I think I’m in love…
The men in my life are Mr. Darcy (of course), Capt. Wentworth, Mr. Thornton, Percy Blakeney, Robin Hood and Sir Gawain. I love the darkly handsome, passionate, protective, mysterious type with secrets. I also like a guy who can handle himself in a fight and looks great in a wet shirt. 🙂
Thank you for the fun post! Your books just hit my to-read list. 🙂
I picked up Dracula, My Love last week and it is in my soon TBR pile. LMOJA is there as well. And now you have intrigued me with your other books. You have given an excellent description of the perfect hero. I have to agree with Abigail that a little flawed too, makes them more human and lovable. Great post!
I love the sounds of these stories! I’m a huge fan of Jane Eyre, and have read several stories fictionally based on Charlotte Bronte’s life. Looks like I’m adding this one to my list too! 😉
My favorite heroes are strong, intelligent, handsome men with a twist of sensitivity and some humor. Not necessarily a “perfect” man, but one who is certain of himself & willing to put his feelings out there.
Thank you, everyone, for your wonderful comments! I agree that a hero should be flawed… I should have included that in my description of the heroes I love to write about, because, in fact , every one of my heroes is flawed, and must grow and change in some way through the story (a crucial quality in any main character, in my point of view.). Thank you, Meredith, for hosting my blog and this month of exciting events. I hope to hear from all of you at my website http://www.syriejames.com,, at authorsyriejames@gmail.com, or on facebook. Happy reading!
I love to read about the charming heroes and the ones that have something tragic in their past, but learn to love again.
Heros?…I like the tall,dark,and sometimes silent type.Not easy to love and never forgets that love comes from the heart.
I enjoy books that build happy everafter.Perhaps mystery or even a past skeleton that threatens from out of the blue.
How wonderful to work with your son.I can’t wait to read this book.My TRL is growing!!!
Heros?…I like the tall,dark,and sometimes silent type.Not easy to love and never forgets that love comes from the heart.
I enjoy books that build happy everafter.Perhaps mystery or even a past skeleton that threatens from out of the blue.
How wonderful to work with your son.I can’t wait to read this book.My TRL is growing!!!
I’m really looking forward to your entry in “Jane Austen Made Me Do It.” I love my heroes with a touch of humor and a kindly disposition to their families.
Hmm… My hero.
I’ve learned that the hero isn’t always the one you’re immediately enthralled by.
Oh, yes, I mean he’s good looking, has a great personality, good sense of humor, you can talk with him easily on any number of subjects, you respect the guy, etc., but he’s willing to be patient enough to let you make the mistake of thinking a grand passion is true love. He wants you to be happy and would sacrifice his share of anything and everything to make sure you are.
Reminiscent of how Colonel Brandon is with Marianne. He steadily fell in love with her, but she had to make a few mistakes first to realize how great a guy he was, and was willing to be, for her.
It may not have been the passionate affair she had with Willoughby, but it would turn out to be a much more lasting affection and friendship necessary to see them through the trials that inevitably come to a relationship, which trials a grand passion may complicate more than help.
Incidentally, my husband is my Colonel Brandon and my hero. It was a few months after I married him before I realized how similar my story is to Marianne’s. Especially as I had always considered myself a sensible Elinor, but there it is.
I anticipate a very full love.
Margay, I also love the hero with a tragic past who has to learn to love again… Based on your comments, I think you’ll love Michael Tyler in “Nocturne”! Amanda, I love what you wrote and wish you a long and wonderful marriage. Kelli, I’m a huge Anne Shirley/Gilbert Blythe fan; I’ve read the entire Anne of Green Gables series dozens of times.
Thank you again everyone; I so enjoyed your comments!
Hmmm… I would have to say smart, funny, handsome, and romantic. 🙂
What kind of heroes do you love to read about?– The kind that seem tough and broody, but are really ooey gooey 🙂
What do you think makes a man romantic, sexy, and desirable? Being ooey and gooey 😉
Who are some of your favorite heroes in novels and films (and real life)? — Oh, Mr. Darcy, of course. Mr. Rochester, Mr. Knightely, Beast from Beauty and the Beast…. 🙂
I guess I like the strong silent type. Well not too silent lol! They just tend to draw me in. A man that possesses self confidence is very sexy! And I Love Edward Cullen and Mr. Darcy and any movie role played by Jack (photo above) or just him in general.