The banter between Merlin and Arthur in fanfiction is really interesting. It can range from light - hearted jabs at each other's habits. Merlin might poke fun at Arthur's love for jousting and how he always gets a bit too competitive. Arthur could retort by mentioning Merlin's clumsy attempts at serving him. Their banter also reflects the underlying respect they have for each other despite their different social standings. It's like a friendly sparring that keeps their relationship dynamic.
It could also be the sound of a monster or a demon that is lurking in the shadows. This creature might use the 'po po po' sound to disorient its victims. Say, it lives in an abandoned place and when someone enters, it starts making the 'po po po' sound to create fear and confusion before it attacks.
One great one is 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne. The main characters have amazing banter throughout the book. It's a workplace romance filled with witty exchanges and a slow - burn love story that keeps you hooked.
A monster might be in a 'po po po scary story'. For example, a monster that has a strange way of communicating, like making the 'po po po' sound. It could lurk in the shadows and when it's close, it makes that noise to terrify its prey.
Once upon a time, in a small, old house, there was a strange noise that went 'po po po' every night. It was a doll. Its eyes glowed red in the dark and it moved on its own. Every time it made the 'po po po' sound, something bad would happen. One night, a girl woke up and saw the doll right next to her bed, making that terrifying 'po po po' sound.
In a small village, there was a well that made a 'po po po' sound. The villagers were afraid to go near it. One curious boy ignored the warnings. He peered into the well and heard the 'po po po' louder. Then, he saw a hand reaching out from the well. He tried to run but his feet were stuck. The 'po po po' was like the call of an evil entity from the depths of the well. Just as the hand was about to grab him, his friends pulled him away.
Witty banter is important in romance novels as it adds a layer of entertainment. It keeps the readers engaged and interested in the relationship between the characters. For example, in 'The Hating Game', the banter makes the tension between the two characters palpable and exciting.
I'm not sure specifically who the 2017 finalists were. You could try looking at the official records of the relevant award organization, or searching in specialized literature databases for that year's nominees in the best banter romance novel category.
Typically, a good banter in a romance novel is about sharp, witty and engaging dialogue between the characters. So, the 2017 finalists' novels might have had characters with strong personalities that bounced off each other well in their conversations. Maybe the hero and heroine had a lot of back - and - forth that was both flirty and humorous.
Well, for bantering, it's important to be observant. Notice the little things around you or about the person you're talking to and make humorous comments based on that. As for telling stories, draw from your own experiences. If you want to banter and tell stories at the same time, like at a party, you could start a story with a bit of a tease. For instance, 'I have a story that'll make you laugh so hard, but first, let me set the scene...' Then go on to tell a funny story about a mix - up at work or something similar.