So when I attended the Authors After Dark conference in August, I discussed what I write with a few different folks. It’s a topic that comes up frequently at events like these and in an effort to get to the point and save time I have a few standard, elevator pitch style answers prepared.

When I talk about the Mystic Isle series, I always refer to it as light paranormal romance.

And then I get blank stares.

No joke.

It’s like crickets. Maybe a few blinks. Perhaps a few ugh huhs. Sometimes people straight-up ask “what is light paranormal?”

So, if you’re wondering what the heck light paranormal is, have a seat and I’ll tell you.

To me, light paranormal (aka mild paranormal) is a paranormal romance that isn’t as dark and angsty as straight up paranormal or dark paranormal. There’s no war, no killing, not much fighting, there’s not a super villain hell bent on taking over the world. There might even be a more Chick Lit like feel to it. Or the stories might revolve around a larger cast of fun and flirty characters. In light paranormal, the world building is less intense, because it’s very contemporary feeling. In other words you’re not going to find a bunch of language and lingo that you’ve never heard of before. You won’t need a glossary to get through it.

To me, these are contemporary romance where the hero and heroine happen to be a werewolf or a vampire or some variation there of. There might even be some comedy in there. If you like contemporary romance but are not a fan of paranormal romance, light paranormal romance might be for you. The emphasis is on the romance, traditional contemporary romance elements and not a whole lot the darker, bite-y-er elements that paranormal is known for. A few examples of what light paranormal romance is NOT: Black Dagger Brotherhood, Dark Hunters or Immortals after Dark.

I’ve actually converted several contemporary romance readers with my light paranormal stories. Folks who’ve never read paranormal before can’t help but fall for Mystic Isle and all the romance that’s in the air.

With Mystic Isle in particular, I like to think of it as Sandals, but for paranormals. You know Sandals, right? Those beautiful all inclusive couples only resorts in the Caribbean? Toss in a few sexy vampires and studmuffin werewolves and you’ve got Mystic Isle.

Now over to you…

What other books do you consider light paranormal? Which other authors are writing light paranormal? Are you one of the light paranormal converts?