This theme posed an interesting question: Is a kidnapping book the same as a
captive/captor book? In a kidnapping book, although there is often a captive and
captor relationship, the kidnapping may be of someone other than the hero or
heroine, a child for instance. The suggested recommended reads offer both
captor/captive books and straight kidnappings.
Sheiks, Native Americans, Pirates and Highwaymen…these are the kidnappers
that romance readers dream of. But it isn't only the hero who does the kidnapping
in reader's favorite books, often the heroine is guilty of the crime. Why the
need to abduct? Usually revenge. The hero or heroine's reputation is at stake. In
order to save their good name, they must abduct the true villain's kin. But
sometimes it is simply because the heroine or hero is just too desirable to
resist. Listed below are some of our readers' favorite titles on this very
popular romance theme.
What's The Appeal?
In a "real life" kidnapping scenario, the kidnapper is an abductor–a
terrorist. The experience is terrifying, and leaves the abductee emotionally
scarred for life. But peculiarly, it is very common for a kidnap victim to fall
in love with their captor–look at the famous case of socialite-political
dissenter Patty Hearst. Or even earlier to the kidnapping of Helen of Troy (one
of the first monumental kidnapping stories ever!)
Being kidnapped or made love to by a stranger is a very common fantasy for
most women. And fantasy is what romance novels deliver! The kidnapping in a
romance is high drama without "real life" danger. It forces two people from very
different worlds to relate to one another–usually under extremely close
circumstances. The result: the two fight, fall in love and work together to find
a happier ending.
Why do these books appeal to readers? First of all, the spunky heroine opens a
Pandora's Box of untapped emotions and wits: A kidnapped heroine can transcend
the normal role expected of her. No need to be ladylike when your life is at
stake. The heroine must be adventurous and bold because she is fighting for
survival!
Secondly, because the dialogue between hero and heroine is so wonderful!
Trapped together in uncomfortable circumstances, the hero and heroine have
wonderful verbal sparring matches. The ensuing sexual tension provides for
humorous and unforgettable stories.
And lastly, often in a romance novel the "kidnapper" is actually a "savior."
He or she is rescuing their captive from something (a marriage or an abusive
relationship) they don't want to be party to. The kidnapper literally frees the
victim from "real life" dilemmas and offers a new and better fantasy life.
And where at first the victim believes they want to escape–later he or
she discovers they have found something better than what is waiting for them at
home.
-Kate Ryan
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