Okay, let’s talk about love triangles.
I know, I know, everyone hates love triangles. Even people who don’t really hate love triangles say they hate love triangles, because liking them has become passé, or because you automatically associate them with a certain culturally pervasive YA vampire series and a marketing stragegy based on “Team This or That.” But guess what? Love triangles have been around forever, and they certainly predate those ubiquitous vampire books.
And guess what else? In my experience, people hate love triangles like they hate cliffhangers. Most people say they hate cliffhangers, but those who are honest will then qualify their hate with the admission that cliffhangers do make them want the next book. Badly.
Don’t believe me? Go read the comments on my previous post. I asked people to comment on the subject of cliffhangers to be entered to win this week’s giveaway, and almost ALL of the comments are a variation of: “I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers.”
Ever notice how no one phrases that sentiment as a “hate/love” relationship? Think it’s a coincidence that the love always comes first? I don’t.
But back to love triangles. This isn’t my defense of them, I swear. In some cases, I like to read about them, in others, I don’t. It all depends on the execution. But then, just saying that is an admission that love triangles are contrived. Engineered by the author.
Don’t look so shocked. Everything in a book is engineered by the author. Also, wrestling is fake. This is entertainment, not journalism. Know how you can tell? Most authors have better grammar than reporters. (Notice I wrote “most.”)
It’s an author’s job to entertain you. To make you believe and feel things that aren’t real. How do I know when I’ve done that successfully? People start sending me emails with detailed analyses of the characters and their (sometimes poorly made) decisions. People start leaving me messages on Facebook and Twitter demanding I move up the release of the next book. (FYI, I can’t do that. Release dates are entirely up to my publisher.) People start sending me messages on Formspring asking what’s going to happen in the next book. (Sorry, I can’t tell you that. If I did, why would you read the book?)
And here’s what I’ve discovered since my first novel came out in 2007: no matter what the book is about, people will obsess over the romance.
Case in point: my own Shifters series. I didn’t write it as romance. I wrote it as urban fantasy. But the subject of more than ninety percent (Okay, I didn’t really do that math. It’s a very confident estimate.) of the email I get about the Shifters books is romance. While I was focused on the bad guys, and the mission, and the revolution, and the careful guidance of an entire society away from the dark side (oppression by a malevolent leader), you guys were constantly asking me “Who’s Faythe going to choose?”
Did I mind? No. At first, I was highly amused. Then I decided this whole development was one big compliment. Even people who professed to hate Faythe wanted to know who she was going to choose. People cared what happened to my characters. I must have done something right. Right?
But now the Shifters series is over and I’ve turned my attention to Soul Screamers (as well as Unbound, my new adult trilogy debuting this fall) and guess what’s happening? I’m getting those messages again.
“Rachel, who is Kaylee going to choose?”
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t know what those people were talking about. Kaylee does have choices. But then, most people do. If you were to dump your significant other right now, would you expect to spend the rest of your life alone? No? Then you have choices. Does that mean you’re currently in a love triangle? Probably not. So let me put forth a radical idea for people to chew over:
It’s possible—possible—that not every romantic development in a book or series is intended to grow into a love triangle. I’m just putting that out there, as food for thought.
Now, here’s why I don’t consider Nash/Kaylee/Tod to be a love triangle, based on what you’ve read through My Soul To Steal:
(SOUL SCREAMERS SPOILERS BELOW)
Reason the first: Kaylee doesn’t know Tod likes her. You canNOT have a love triangle when one of the sides of that triangle doesn’t know the other side is, in fact, a side.
Faythe, on the other hand, knew early on how Jace felt about her.
Reason the second: Kaylee is not being asked to choose between two love interests. She’s not caught in the middle with a guy tugging on either arm. Why not?
From the author’s standpoint, that’s because Kaylee is sixteen, and she’s been through some trauma. I think she needs time to decide how she feels about Nash without the added pressure/temptation of knowing that there’s another possibility.
From Tod’s standpoint…things are complicated. Does he like her? Yes. Does that mean he can come right out and tell her? No. She’s his brother’s girlfriend. His heart is being pulled in both directions. Loyalty to his own flesh and blood, or potential happiness for himself? You might even say that Tod is actually the focal point of this particular not-a-triangle, not Kaylee. He’s the one who has to make a decision, even if no one else knows it.
Does he always make the wise decision? No. Does he always mean well? Um…again, no. But in this case, yes. He doesn’t want to hurt anyone he cares about. So what’s a reaper to do?
By contrast, Faythe knew early on that she’d have to make a decision. In fact, she struggled with that decision for at least two and a half books. (Some might say more.)
Reason the third: The first word in the phrase “love triangle” is love. You can’t have a love triangle unless the focal point in that triangle loves the other two points—both of them—to a degree close enough to make the decision difficult. And that’s a simple love triangle. They can get much more complex, when each point loves both of the other points, or the love travels in one direction all the way around the triangle (Bob loves Sue, who loves Johnny, who loves Bob, or something like that.)
But here’s the deal: Kaylee and Nash are trying to work things out. They’re starting over (at the end of MSTSteal) to see if they can salvage what they had, after what they’ve been through. No guarantees from me either way. Sorry. (Okay, I’m not really sorry. I actually like teasing readers. 
) And Kaylee and Tod…well, there is no Kaylee and Tod. As of My Soul To Steal, she doesn’t see him like that, because she doesn’t know how he feels. Because he hasn’t told her. Because she’s going out with his brother.
So how is that a love triangle, exactly? In my opinion (and you’re welcome to disagree with me, but you won’t change my mind), it’s not. It’s a struggling relationship and a third, silently interested party.
Could that change? Of course it could. Just like in real life.
Am I saying it will change? No, I’m not. Nor am I saying it won’t. I’m saying that the relationships in the Soul Screamers series aren’t simple enough to fall into the rather pat label “love triangle.” And that’s without even mentioning Sabine.
And by the way, if you’re bored and have the time, go back and run the Kaylee/Nash/Sabine tangle through the three qualifiers above. Does it qualify as a love triangle? Did things just get a little more complicated?
Why yes, I think they did.
Okay. Discuss!
>This is a little confusing to me. Do the qualifiers only apply to characters? What about the reader? We are the ones reading the Soul Screamers books and the Reaper story. From the reader's perspective, especially after reading Tod's story, there is a definite choice, or triangle, or whatever you want to call it.There have definitely been moments when Kaylee has felt a connection to Tod. I don't believe for a second she is completely oblivious. At least, I hope her character is smarter than that. It seems she is now that she has come through what Nash did to her. It might not be spelled out to her by the writer but it has been spelled out to the reader. Otherwise, why are so many of us choosing sides.
>Anon, yes, of course the reader sees more than Kaylee does. You're supposed to. Kaylee is distracted with hellions, and nightmares, and possession, and Nash's problems. She's not seeing Tod for what he is. At least, not yet. And as a reader, your interpretation is just as valid as my intentions. But I personally don't consider their tangled relationship a triangle for the reasons I listed.Do they have a relationship? Yes. Is it more complicated than Kaylee knows? Yes. My point is that it's too complicated to describe as a simple love triangle.
>WOW….that was deep…I personally feel Kaylee should be with Tod…I mean yea, she and Nash have history but its as good as nothing after what happened and Nash is better off with Sabine cuz atleast he remembers his moments with her… Tod and Kaylee have sooo much potential…its sooo obvious he cares about her but he keeps his feelings to himself….but Im sure Kaylee knows there's something….Tod please gather the courage to express your feelings before its too late!!!! (i guess its already l8…cuz you are done with IF I DIE..)And Rachel…PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE release a snippet soon!!!!!
>Ha! So I totally went off about this topic yesterday in my response to your question of whether or not people love/hate cliffhangers. I think that what frustrates me the most about love triangles/ fuels my hate of them is that oftentimes it is extremely clear who the (oftentimes female) character should be with, to everyone but that person. Take Aprilynne Pike's "Wings" series for instance. Laurel is torn between David and Tamani and ***SPOILER ALERT*** at the end of "Spells" she chooses David. This is a horrible decision (well, at least I think it is). David is human, Laurel is not. She is going to live a heck of a lot longer than he is (therefore she is going to look a heck of a lot younger than he is when they are the same age). Tamani on the other hand is also a fairy, and therefore he is going to live for a long time. David cannot truly understand the fairy part of her life whereas Tamani can. If Laurel were to ever want children in the future she would be unable to have children with David. Because Laurel is a part of David's life she is constantly exposing him to dangers that he would not experience in the human world, whereas Tamani would be able to deal better with this danger being a sentry and everything. So though she may be having fun with David now, she can't have a full future with him. With the whole Faythe/ Marc/ Jace situation. Well, I have lots of opinions about that but I shall keep it to myself (mainly because if not I would be cursing Jace out a whole lot…
). And the whole Kaylee/ Tod/ Nash thing? Well in my reviews of all of the books it became evident that I am not a fan of Nash whatsoever. I think that he treats Kaylee pretty horribly and for some reason she keeps forgiving him and going back to him. What he has done to her is inexcusable (ie. the whole demon drug thing and then the Sabine thing). And in my reviews of the books I did voice how I would love to see Kaylee and Todd together. At the end of "Soul to Steal" though I was questioning whether or not Tod like Kaylee and I personally thought that he no longer did (that he was leaning more so towards Emma). So I find it interesting to know that he does in fact like her and that makes me happy because perhaps they could have a future together (For awhile there I was thinking that Alec and Kaylee's flirting may have led somewhere and I was a bit distraught about that because I did really want to see her with Tod, but then when I really thought about it I would rather see her with anyone but Nash). Anyways, kinda long rant… Thanks for the great discussion! 
>Your reasoning is why I am going to read this series. I have book 1 (and I'm not worried about spoilers – the fun is seeing how everything comes about, especially when you are starting an established series).
>Avery, I haven't read WINGS, so I can't comment on that, but your opinion on N/K is part of a really fascinating discussion I'd also like to have soon. Some people criticize Kaylee for giving Nash a second chance. Others criticize her for taking a break from their relationship–for not standing by him when he needed help. People seem very split, and I'm amazed by how even that split seems to be.Side one: strong women don't stay with men who mistreat them, even when there are special circumstancesSide two: strong women stay and help their partners get through difficult times.Fascinating, right?
>I agree with you Rachel! But I hope when Kaylee does figure out that Tod loves her she'll turn him down VERY nicely bc I like Tod but then stay with Nash!! I hope I hope that's how it happens but either way your an awesome author and I'm sure it'll turn out GREAT! And in the whole Sabine/Nash/Kaylee fiasco. I think its kinda a love triangle but then again idk. I say kinda bc Nash has Kaylee and Sabine who both love him and want him but then again Kaylee still is unsure about her and Nash and Nash has made it clear to Sabine that he loves Kaylee! But Sabine was his first love!! Wow thats kinda confusing, do you ever get confused writing this? Lol. So I guess this is a love triangle (I won't know for sure bc I'm not reading Nashs POV but Kaylees). Wow sorry that was long.
>Ok, so we aren't calling it a "triangle", rather a "tangle", but it seems funny to me that an author has to put up a blog post of their "final word" stating this when it wasn't clear to their readers after six books/novellas. Maybe it will be written more clearly in If I Die, for those of us who have obviously been mistaken all along.I sure hope so because I can't wait to read it!The "tangle" has drawn in lots of the readers of the series and it is what makes us look forward to the next book.
>You make some good points! Now that I'm thinking about it, and after reading your post, I don't really consider K/N/T a love triangle. I think you're right that Kaylee has to be aware of both guys' feelings for her. She's not torn between them. Poor Tod! He's in a tough position.Would you consider Kaylee, Nash, and Sabine a love triangle? Both girls love Nash, and he knows it. Unless after what happened, he thinks Kaylee's feelings changed. Or is it not a triangle because Nash only wants Kaylee? I don't really see K/N/S as a triangle because Nash has made it clear he only wants Kaylee.
>Anonymous 2, I think you may be misreading my intent and maybe even my statement here. I'm not denying that a connection between Kaylee and Tod exists. And I don't think readers who see that have misread the books. I'm just saying that that connection doesn't fit into the too-neat, expected love triangle format. And this is my "final" word because I get questions along these lines daily, and as exciting as that is, I can't keep answering them individually without repeating myself all the time or revealing too many spoilers too early. I know and I'm GLAD that the relationships are what draw the readers. In fact, that thrills me. I'm just sad that we've all (evidently) been conditioned to pigeonhole relatioships into this one descriptor.
>Your post got me thinking and for me T/K/N doesn't read like a love triangle yet, but I definitely get the feeling that they could be a possiblity of a future T/K/N love triangle. It's clear to me there is a K/N/S love triangle and I feel certain that it will continue in If I die. I feel so sorry for Kaylee, she's a forgiving person, for me Nash has put her through too much with Sabine, the drugs and lying. And I fear that Nash is only going to hurt her more as I get the feeling that he feels far more strongly for Sabine than Kaylee.. It's an entertaining love triangle but one I think Nash is not worthy of.. I myself have witnessed love triangles at school were to me one is not worthy of two people loving them, so it's great to read about one like that (I'm aware they are many readers who feel that Nash is more than worthy but I'm quite clearly not one of them). I've never really been a fan of Nash and Kaylee because when they first got together I felt that the only reason Nash was interested in Kaylee was because she was a bean sidhe and I felt confident that if they were a few dozen female bean sidhe's at their school he wouldn't want Kaylee.In a perfect world I would prefer a T/K/N love triangle in which Kaylee 'chooses herself' at the end, only because she's too young to be choosing the love her of life.Ferdy.
>"Side one: strong women don't stay with men who mistreat them, even when there are special circumstancesSide two: strong women stay and help their partners get through difficult times."I had never considered side two before.My brain just exploded. Seriously. If Tod and Kaylee were to be together she would age and he would not, no? Though she wouldn't look all that old (just like late twenties/ early thirties like her dad and uncle, right?) and he looked like a teenager still. Hmmmm… So it's not like he would be some young thing looking after an eighty year old her with her walker and whatnot.
>Avery wrote: If Tod and Kaylee were to be together she would age and he would not, no? Though she wouldn't look all that old (just like late twenties/ early thirties like her dad and uncle, right?) and he looked like a teenager still. Hmmmm… So it's not like he would be some young thing looking after an eighty year old her with her walker and whatnot.Yes, Kaylee would age slowly, whether or not she and Tod ever get together.
But eventually, even bean sidhes grow old. Which is another aspect to consider when thinking about the possibility of a K/T relationship.
>Omg thanks soo much for that Rachel.I, for one never saw n/k/t as a love triangle. It seems that people forget that Nash and Tod are brothers or that Tod almost let Kaylee die in his angst to save Addison only a couple of months before. I'm not saying what Nash did is easily forgivable but in my opinion if it doesn't work out between Nash and Kaylee then I feel she should be alone for a while. She's 16 and has a very long life to live to just jump from one very emotional relationship into another.
>I agree that N/K/T isn't a love triangle. Nevertheless, I'm seriously crossing my fingers, hoping Kaylee ends up with Tod because I love him so much
Love triangles in stories can easily get tacky, but it is what can happen in real life, especially when you're 16 and not really sure of a lot of things yet. With all this talk about Kaylee, Tod and Nash I'm really hoping October and the next book is getting here soon!
>I had to skip the whole Soul Screamers explanation as I've yet to read MSTSteal. But I actually enjoy love triangles (and cliff hangers!)… does this make me odd? I especially love love triangles where nothing has happened yet with either guy. I love the conflict and competition, the "will they? won't they?" And although love triangles are necessarily common in real life, I think love triangles make books that little more reason; it's about choices, as you said. Not that I have a problem with them, but in books where there is only one love interest, you know from the outset they're going to get together, with a love triangle, you have no clue, which I think is more true to life, the choice. Plus it's exciting when you don't know from the beginning who's going to "win". I love it!
>I agree. I know that *currently* there is no love triangle between K/N/T.. BUT from my reader's standpoint; I still read the books and think to myself "Man, I wish Kaylee would move on from Nash and then Tod could come in the picture.." It's not that I don't like Nash, but personally feel that their relationship is not a healthy one. (Yes, I know they are characters in a book, but this is from a standpoint of engrossing yourself fin their world as your read). Nash is too volatile and also yes, a bit selfish. I think his previous love Sabine is a much better fit- as they both are like one another and would compliment eitherother's personality quirks well. And I feel bad for Tod. Ever the nice guy, even as a reaper. Not to say he hasn't made bad choices or ones that aren't selfish either– BUT when it comes to his love for Kaylee (even though to date it is unrequited because she doesn't know about it) he is there for her, protective, and wants what's best for her, even if that currently means not telling her about his love because he doesn't want to hurt anyone. That to me would be the foundation starters to make a much healthier relationship than the one she is currently in. So, what is boils down to is this: There might not be a triangle, but I am still for Team Tod.
>I'm not sure why people see a triangle with Kaylee, Nash & Tod. I've seen great friendship on both parts and he really cares for her well being. But does that have to equal he is in love with her? In real life, no! In fantasy books, no!I think people make up some love triangles that weren't meant to be there because that is the ideal of what society desires. Just like winning the lottery or becoming famous, having 2 people in love with you and you having to choose is a dream. This dream is not limited to younger society. I'm sure everyone has seen the married old guy at the store flirting with the young cashier. Not that either are looking for anything, but both are flattered at the attention even for those few minutes, from a stranger.We as feeling humans, can't help but be drawn to love drama. We watch it on TV, even the news. We read it in books. We even hear about it in history. I admit it does make for a good story. But I think sometimes we miss the subtle things trying to read to deeply into it. For example, Tod yells at Nash because he MUST love her. Not because he care for her as a friend.So that being said, I think it comes down to, I truly believe men and women can be friends without a romantic involvement. Many people don't believe that, I know. But some of the best marriages and relationships all start with true FRIENDSHIP. Love is a tricky thing. I think you can love someone without being "in love" with that person. That is my personal take.So cliffhanger, triangles, or anything else you want to throw at us, I can't want to read!
>Aw, I happen to love love triangles. I think they add a whole extra layer of tension to a story. I didn't read your reasons for why Kaylee isn't in a love triangle (didn't want any spoilers), but I agree with what you said about characters having choices.Very interesting post!
> Yes, Kaylee would age slowly, whether or not she and Tod ever get together.
But eventually, even bean sidhes grow old. Which is another aspect to consider when thinking about the possibility of a K/T relationship. But then Tod could totally pull a Romeo/ Juliet when Kaylee passed away- he could do something to really cheese Levi off and *poof* no more Tod, no more Kaylee… 
>I never read "love triangle" into this series for N/K/T. More like potential unrequited love (so far) for Tod.Do think there's a bit of a triangle – though tangle is the better word already used – for N/K/S with Nash at the center.I am not afraid to admit I do not mind the triangle (just like I don't mind the cliffhanger). It just has to be realistic. (Not that this is the case in this series.)But, the MC can't proclaim his/her love for one person and on the very next page run off with the other, then sob and run back to guy #1. Way to OTT.Can't wait for the next book, btw!
>To tell you the truth the whole Tod and Kaylie thing that so many want makes me sick. I wanted to scream at them "Tod's Nash's brother!, and It's wrong on so many levels! Why can't you get that?" I just think people are so obsessed with Tod that they are overlooking the obvious. Do I love Tod? Yes,but do I want him with Kaylie? No! Personally that would make me lose respect for both characters. Everybody always acts like Nash is such a bad guy. I don't see that I see a teenage boy. Also Tod isn't perfect either. He had done some horrible stuff to Kaylie as well,but everybody just chooses to overlook that. Which frustrates me because they let their bias for him get in the way. I loved a lot of points you made in this post Rachel. I am one of those people who hate triangles with a passion. Yes I have been Team Peeta and Team Ash etc,but only because I felt I had to be. Nowadays I won't even read books if they say they have a triangle in them. Yes sometimes they sneak up on me,and it pisses me off that yet again a author had to go there, but I like to know that I'm already infested in the characters before that happens. I'm glad that at this point you are not doing that,because it would truly mess up one of my favorite series.
>Samantha, I'm sorry the thought makes you sick, but I have to admit, that sounds like a rather extreme reaction.
I have to say that I can't think of an age-appropriate combination of my characters that would make me sick. Not that I'm planning to start throwing random couples together. But neither can I promise that any relationship started or continued will be permanent. They're teenagers. Things change. Kids change their minds. Hell, adults change their minds. And so long as the decisions fit the characters and the story, I'm good with it. But that's not a hint at anything. Seriously. 
>Amie, I agree that boys and girls can be good friends. But I also think that's harder as teenagers. I just don't think it's accurate for ever single romance development in a series (any series, not just mine) to be proclaimed as a move toward a love triangle.
>Rachel, i understand the sense of the whole love triangle situation. . .Twilight was like that but I'd always knew that Bella would choose Edward. I'm currently on Prey of your shifter series and Faythe and Marc have a lot of issues to work out. You made it clear in the end of the Pride book that it would always be Marc and Faythe. WIth Kaylee and Nash, there just a small sense of where it going to go (and these are teenagers the shifter series you made it clear that it very adult setting)with Sabine in the picture and Tod developing feeling for Kayee(IF So). But i think Tod also feels guilty as if the situation was different from your novella of Tod. Your fans can either hate or love the love triangles but fan should also know that your stories arent about vampires or wolves, it is a different setting/plot(which I like) and there's more romantic in your stories that make fans draw into it more. ~ Kat
>Actually it's a type 9. love triangle, "9. Bob and Charlie are attracted/loyal to each other but are also attracted/loyal to Alice. If Bob and Charlie are brothers, it's a Sibling Triangle."
>Honey I like your writing but I don't like your attitude. I don't think your intent was to lecture, but your post seemed to me to have that tone. If I wanted a lecture I'd go back to college for another degree. Stick to updates, the cute little anecdotes and leave the condescending tone for your private blog not your commercial one. It may be a blog, but there is a certain point after which you overstep your authority as an author and become that know-it-all, mightier-than-thou person no one wants to listen to.You write for a younger audience. You're going to get a lot of whiny children, especially when you open yourself up in this sort of fashion. You need to learn when to brush it off and let it go.
>Despite the fact that I ADORE Tod and prefer him for Kaylee (actually, more for myself), and despite the possibility of a love triangle blooming in the next book, I don't think he'll be chosen or even really considered. Nash has been the main love interest throughout the books so, imo, it's unlikely there'll be a sudden switch. At least, not a sudden *permanent* switch. But I hope I'll be proven wrong
I can't even blame you for the teasing! I do the same to my, ahem, imaginary readers.-LS
>I sorta agree with the whole criticism both ways where some people feel Kaylee should have been there to support Nash when he was dealing with his addiction, and the other side where she shouldn't have given him a second chance with their relationship.One, I agree Kaylee should have been there for Nash, BUT as a shoulder to lean on, and not just avoid the source of her pain completely, they are both hurting but they didn't have to suffer alone, they could have been there for one another and it would have shown that Kaylee was strong enough to look over that, because she is deluding herself by thinking that she could never get over what Nash did to her. She is strong and more than capable, she just has to see past to that. And two, what Nash did to her was beyond unforgivable and she should have called the relationship quits and leave it at that, what Tod said to her in MSTSteal was completely true, that although Nash needed her, she didn't need him, at least not fully, because she can definitely do better than that, find someone that equals her in both her heart and head, someone who could make her want to do better, to push herself on her own, and Nash is not that person. By continuing her relationship with Nash, she'll just make it more difficult when the time comes for her to let go, plus, she's just playing it safe.So, yeah, there're my thoughts
sorry, got kinda fired up..xDMichelle C.
>Personally, I really like love triangles if the author writes them well, and you know they've done that when you can't decide who to root for (at least in my case any way), and you have absolutely no idea which guy will win the girl (or which girl will win the guy). One of my biggest pet peeves though is when it’s pretty clear who the MC is going to choose right from the start. It doesn’t really count as a love triangle to me if there's no contest and the MC doesn’t give each guy a chance to be the one for her. How can it be a triangle if only one person is really in the running, and the other is just kind of written in there to strain the relationship? This is going to be hard to explain but I’ll do my best to make sense of what I’m trying to say. Bear with me =P. A couple of examples: the famous Bella/Edward/Jacob triangle. Pretty much everyone saw this as a triangle, and I guess I can see that, but this one didn’t really count as a triangle to me because first of all, the feelings between Bella and Jacob were all one sided from the start. Bella always said Jacob felt more like a brother to her, her best friend. She gravitates toward him because he makes her feel better about Edward leaving her but the entire time she’s still stuck on Edward. Over the course of the series she chooses Edward over Jacob every single time even when Edward left her, therefore never even giving Jacob a chance to win her over, and never returning the feelings in order to make him a real part of the triangle. Another example is Faythe, Marc and Jace. Again, over the course of the entire series it was always Marc. Faythe and Jace may have had a one night stand and a few shared kisses and small shared moments but to me, it always seemed pretty clear cut that Faythe would go back to Marc. Again, I personally wouldn’t really call this a triangle because to me, Jace never really got a chance to win Faythe over. Both Faythe and Bella are forced to “choose”, but does that still really count when the choice was already made a long time ago? To me, the answer is no. I liked how Rachel put it: you can’t have a love triangle unless the focal point in that triangle loves the other two points—both of them—to a degree close enough to make the decision difficult. In both series, I didn’t really find that to be the case. Bella even tells Jacob that there was never really a choice, it was always and would always be Edward. At the moment I can’t really think of a series where each guy is actually a contender, instead of just an obstacle to the main romance. The only series that stands out is the Blood Song series by Cat Adams. I know there are others but I can’t remember them at the moment. Anyways, do I think Nash, Kaylee and Tod are in a triangle? No, because at the moment Tod isn’t a contender. Like Rachel said, Kaylee isn’t aware of his feelings for her so until that time it’s just Nash and Kaylee (I’m hoping that will change though because I would LOVE to see Tod and Kaylee together. Nash and Kaylee were good while it lasted but I think Nash totally ruined it and him and Kaylee would be better off apart. I still can’t figure out how this would ever work though since Tod is dead. I can hope though right? hehe). As far as Kaylee, Nash and Sabine go it’s tough to say. I think both girls count as contenders in this case because Nash knows both girls have feelings for him, and they’ve both had a chance with him even though he claims he’s over Sabine (whether that’s true or not remains to be seen). With cliffhangers, I have a love/hate relationship. I love them because it gets me excited for the next book but I hate them because the readers usually have to wait such a long time before the next book comes out. It just gets really frustrating! As long as most of the loose ends are tied up from the main plot in the story I don’t mind that much though.
>Thanks for that post, I found it opened my eyes to the obvious. I Love Love Love "Love Triangles."Clearly, these 3 characters don't have a typical love triangle in play. I get exactly what you mean. Though I am so so guilty of pulling a Love Triangle out of Kaylee/ Nash/ Tod's Relationship. Perhaps, that is how we ended up seeing a love triangle…those of us who love them, try to squeeze one out of your story, especially because as you know, everyone loves Tod.We all see what we want to see in books in the end, that's why there is always discussion/ conflict.But the questions people ask you about who is she going to choose? I think they are the real die-hard romantic, love triangle loving fans, that will always see the love triangle…even when you clearly spell it out to them that there isn't one. So I will go off to start reading MSTS tonight! And will keep in mind to stop pining away for a triangle that may never happen. AND…if there ever was going to be a K/N/T triangle, I think Kaylee needs to grow a whole lot more. She is still very young.Plus we want a whole lot more Soul Screamer books to look forward too! Does anyone really want Kaylee just to choose a guy and be done with it? Not me
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>I totally agree. I have never thought of Kaylee/Nash/Tod as a love triangle. I didn't even realize that it was an issue, because I didn't notice much about Tod liking Kaylee…lol….so maybe I need to read them again. I would definitely consider the Kaylee/Nash/Sabine thing a love triangle, and I complicated one at that…..but I I agree with you about N/K/T….definitely NOT a love triangle!
>IMHO – I think it's a testament to your prowess as an (AWESOME!) writer that this topic has provoked so much debate. I don't have a point of view about who Kaylee should be with as I just want more and more and more books with these characters in them because I love them. And the fact that they all have a strong dynamic together is part of where the tension and expectation grows from. However, sometimes you can be attracted to someone but be totally aware that a romance would be a disaster. Hence, really great sexual tension that's fun to read about. It amps up the pressure just enough to be interesting but not so much it pops the bubble of expectation.And on a tangent, I read a really great article from a sports blogger last week about a comment he received from a reader who disagreed with something he had posted. The comment allegedly crossed a few boundaries. The blogger really wanted to address the reader so he was able to track him down and call him. The commenter was so astounded by this that he basically blurted out that he felt that by commenting anonymously he could say anything without consequence but being confronted made him realize that he was dealing with a real person with feelings. The whole post made me think about my own posting history and decide to take full responsibility for what I say online. And if I don't think that I'd be proud for anyone to read what I want to say and know that Diane from Canada said it and could call me up on the phone about it – I won't post it. That's my personal decision but I invite anyone who posts comments on blogs to consider the fact that there's a real person behind those posts and the ability to put "Anonymous" instead of "Diane from Canada" shouldn't encourage ignorance or abuse. And that would be my humble personal opinion only.
>I totally agree with you, Rachel. The whole brother issue aside and as much as I love Tod, I just can't see him with Kaylee. Why? I don't know, but I just can't see it. K/N/T, I don't think it's a triangle. K/N/S, yes. Great, interesting post! (Hope, I'm not forgetting something…)
>I'm voicing in on the side of openly adoring love triangles. Not in real-life mind you. They're miserable if you're actually caught in one. But in fiction, they are delicious. This fascination is probably due to the fact I knew all the words to the Broadway version of Phantom of the Opera by the time I was 4 years old and that movies like Princess Bride (hey, she's engaged to another man–she doesn't love him, but it's still a love triangle) were my earliest and lasting great love stories. The choice and the struggle in the romance side of a plot is important to me, and knowing who will end up together by chapter two isn't as much fun. (Which explains why I read more UF and YA than PNR) I skipped the Soul Screamer portion of the post because I'm way behind on the series and didn't want to run into spoilers (sorry, my TBR is a truly scary thing right now) so I'm not sure how you tied everything up at the end of the post, but I just had to jump in and give a little cheer on the side of love triangles. *Hugs*
>I haven't read your books yet and I can see there are some I should not miss. Based on what you are saying though, there is a love triangle from Tod's point of view. He loves both–not necessarily sexually but love nonetheless. So from his POV he is definitely in a love triangle. The others are not unless you haven't disclosed something about Kaylee's thoughts. Nash, as far as I can see, does not see a love triangle. It may change if he becomes aware of his brother's feelings but for now only Tod sees a love triangle.
>Rachel, yeah maybe sick wasn't the right thing to say. It's more like the thought makes me frustrated,because as I said I think the brother thing is a major no,no. Also I think a lot of people are overlooking that small detail. I do trust you to keep writing great books though, and I can't wait to see what you come up with.
>When i read your post Rachel I was like wow. But i agree with you on that the love situation is not simply understandable. after reading My Soul to Steal i was speechless. Because i read My Soul to Keep when it first came out, it felt like forever for My soul to steal and the situation just got kicked up a notch.Tod doesn't seem like the kind of guy who would steal his brother's girlfriend and theres definitely some connection between him and Kaylee. And omg Sabine. Do you enjoy putting us at the edge of out seats? Love triangles do mean that the main character in this case kaylee would have to know that Tod feels something for her. But if you add sabine into the equation the shape is definitely not a triangle.I'm sorry i rambled, but i agree with what you're saying. *sniffles* i can't wait to read the next book xD
>I am a big fan of tradition and it breaks my heart (I think I might get a little bit TOO much into books) that Nash and Kaylee might not be together. Sabine makes me want to…I don't even know, but it's not good. Which means you developed that character well! When Faythe ended up with…not going to say because some people haven't read it, I was so relieved. I spent hours on end wondering how it would end. Now I'm counting the days down for If I die and all I have to say is I am usually patient but when it comes to your books, I am restless. In my opinion, a good book grabs your attention and keeps it. Also, my favorite books have been known to make me laugh, cry, smile, and get angry. Your books have made me do all of those things. What does all this crazy pyscho babble mean? Thank you SO much for keeping me entertained!!! Please post an excerpt from If I Die soon!!!
>I have to be honest, I feel like you might be wasting time on this discussion that could be better spent writing the next book! We want to know how this all plays out! I am half joking actually. I have to agree that I didn't see it as a love triangle, partially because I might have been partially oblivious to Tod's actual feelings. It's obvious that he cares for Kaylee as more than I friend but it seems like there is something stronger and different than him wanting to be with her. But as I read your comment, I can see things a little differently, and I see where those emotions could take place. Part of me can't wait to read the next in the series and I definitely hope you are able to make this series go on quite a bit longer (in number of books, not so much in time
). To be honest, part of me hopes the next book doesn't come out too too soon, only because I have a really difficult time putting them down! I read the MSTSteal in less than 24 hours and I think my head will explode if I try something like that again 
. I do have to say that there is something I enjoy about Kaylee and Nash's relationship and I also like the way Tod and Kaylee's relationship stands currently as well. He is obviously a major, if not the most significant, part of what keeps him anchored to his humanity.
I’m half way through MST-Steal…The Kaylee/Nash situation had me upset before Sabine even showed up. I actually get knots in my stomach when i’m reading My Soul to Steal, I loved reading the first 3 books so much but I look at this book and feel sick to my stomach because I hate the situation that Kaylee is in with Nash and Sabine & though I’ve thought about it I am not going to give up on the book, but I am less than enjoying the presence of Sabine’s character. (YIPPEEE for the SLAP!!). I feel sort of sorry for Sabine & empathise with her, without a doubt if the story was in her first person I’d probably dislike Kaylee and feel equally gutted about Nash not waiting for Sabine as I do about Sabine trying to get him back and him not being as firm as he should with Sabine… Having said all that, my loyalties lie with Kaylee, and the best ending for me would be Sabine falling madly in love with Todd, or anyone. Anyone but Nash! If not, Sabine’s death would suffice!
I am more angry with Nash than Sabine I think.
1) For interacting so actively with Sabine and seemingly not thinking about Kaylees feelings as much as he should
2) for not trying harder to win Kaylee back
3) For lying to Kaylee about frost
4) for not trading memories of Sabine with Avari, when he traded memories of Kaylee!
5) For generally being a typically foolish boy, (notice the lack of use of the word ‘man’)
6) For not waiting for Sabine in the first place when he supposingly felt so strong about her. He says that he lovED Sabine like he loves Kaylee now, if this is true he obviously lacks the capacity for true undying love.
I questioned whether this analysis would differ if Nash still loved Sabine (undead love) and felt stronger for her than Kaylee and I concluded that no, my analysis of Nash being incapable of my interpretation of true undying love would not differ here as Nash could not have possibly truly loved Sabine if he just left her and moved onto Kaylee!
Nash is the problem. Nash and his unfinished business. His actions will break at least one heart and have so far (1/2 way through) caused problems between two non-human girls who would otherwise potentially appreciate one another.
Anyway, thumbs up for the book, I just hope there’s a rest bite from the painful reading at the moment.
It’s not a love triangle, it’s a typical idiot male!
I never saw them as a triangle, though after reading reviews I thought I would have. After each book I would think, again, am I reading the same books as they are?? lol I could not understand where the whole Team Nash/Todd thing came from esp since Tod didn’t play that much of a role til later on. Nor can I understand the complete vilification of Nash and the praising of Kaylee. She makes mistake, after mistake, after mistake and I was ticked off her quite a bit over her selfish decisions and indecision.. and my heart hurt for poor Nash
I guess would see it as more of an unrequited love triangle,
I thank god (and you) every day for not involving a love triangle in this series. I love how the story went and how it had been developed. Kaylee and Nash were great as a couple in the beginning because Kaylee makes Nash feel needed. But as the story progress she becomes more independent and somehow developed a hero complex. Now, how can two person with hero complex save one another? I think Kaylee did love Nash but she wasn’t in love with him. She was probably infatuated with the idea of him(she had this image of how amazing he is), which is why she got disappointed and angry when Nash made audacious decisions, she only sees what she wants to see, she didn’t accept Nash for his behavior. With Tod, I’m not exactly sure if she truly love him or love the way Tod expresses his love, I mean, she DID envy Addy. I love Tod, he definitely grew on me as the series progresses. I’m glad it isn’t a love triangle since I find Kaylee to be indecisive, well, slightly. About Sabine, I’m glad she came back to claim Nash. Kaylee was obviously putting too much fault in Nash, she’s not good for him. Their characters were vaguely similar that when you put the both of them together, they collide. Besides, they (Kaylee and Nash) have somewhat of the same expectation in a relationship, which is to be placed first, to be needed, or to be pampered. All that pretty much due to their family background. I hope that Kaylee will put in more effort into her relationship with Tod. Tod is amazing and he deserves awesomeness.