Have you ever noticed how often the past sneaks its way into the present, especially when it comes to romance?
Our pasts shape us in ways we don't always realise. Those childhood experiences, family dynamics, and old heartbreaks? They're like invisible strings, tugging at us when we least expect it.
In romance, this baggage creates delicious tension and drama. It's the reason our characters hesitate, push away, or dive in headfirst.
But here's the thing — when characters overcome their past trauma and allow themselves to fall in love? That's the good stuff. It's what makes the happily ever after so damn satisfying.
In Lights, Camera, Baby!, Charlie and Emma are the perfect example of how family history can complicate (and ultimately deepen) a love story. Let's dive into their baggage, shall we?
Charlie's Dad Issues
Charlie's got daddy issues with a capital D.
His father wasn't just absent — he was a Grade A jerk who walked out on the family. Talk about leaving some scars! It left Charlie terrified of turning into his old man.
He's scared of commitment, worried he'll mess up and hurt Emma and the baby just like his dad hurt him.
But here's the kicker — Charlie's also desperate to prove he's nothing like his father.
It's why he goes all in when Emma shows up pregnant. He's buying onesies, reading every parenting book he can get his hands on, and even installing baby-proof railings! It's adorable and a little neurotic, but so very Charlie.
These insecurities are something Charlie battles throughout the story, and they add a layer of emotional depth to his character as he struggles to reconcile his past with the future he wants to build with Emma.
Emma's Tough Childhood
Now, let's talk about Emma. Poor girl lost her parents young and ended up with her Aunt Ginny.
Spoiler alert: Ginny wasn't exactly mom of the year material.
Emma had to grow up fast, fending for herself in a new country. It's no wonder she's got trust issues! She’s so used to going it alone that letting Charlie in feels like trying to solve a Rubik's cube blindfolded. She's torn between her fierce independence and her growing feelings for Charlie.
And let's not forget her fear of being trapped in a life she never wanted — just like her aunt.
But here's where it gets good.
As Emma and Charlie fumble their way through this unexpected pregnancy, they start to heal each other. Charlie shows Emma what it's like to have someone in her corner, while Emma helps Charlie see that he's nothing like his dad.
It's not all smooth sailing, of course. There are misunderstandings, arguments, and one particularly tense moment involving a missed doctor's appointment (I'm looking at you, Charlie!). But watching these two work through their issues? It’s like catnip to my angst loving soul.
Why I'm Scared of Second Generation Series
As an author, flawed characters and messy families are gold. There's something so relatable about characters wrestling with their past, especially family stuff. It’s one of those themes that’s both universal and deeply personal — we've all got some family drama, right?
But here's a confession — the thought of writing a second-generation series terrifies me!
Why? Because I'd have to make some of my favourite characters into not-so-great parents. Can you imagine turning Charlie or Emma into the source of their kid's trauma? The very idea makes me break out in a cold sweat!
I've poured my heart into making these characters grow, heal, and become the best versions of themselves. The thought of undoing all that progress for the sake of a new storyline? It just doesn't sit right with me. So for now, I'll stick to exploring the family baggage our characters bring into their relationships. It's a goldmine of emotional depth without the guilt of tarnishing my beloved fictional families!
What do you think? Do you love stories where characters have to overcome family baggage to find love? Or do you prefer a smoother path to happily ever after? And what about second-generation stories — yay or nay? Let me know in the comments!
Until next time, happy reading!
Morgana x
Lights, Camera, Baby is a fish-out-of-water romance following a career-driven wedding planner, her charming one-night stand, and the surprise pregnancy that forces them to reconsider love, family, and their futures in the heart of Hollywood.
