Too Soon For Intimacy? Be Honest.

I had to post about this because it's been weighing on my mind lately. When is it too soon for the characters in a book to have sex in a non-erotic story?

We're not talking the number of sex scenes or their intensity but the right 'window of opportunity.' Whether it's behind closed doors or out in the open, I'd like to pin-point the moment when the magic's right.

I've always enjoyed the build-up myself. Like real life, if one jumps into the sack too soon with their partner, it often takes away that delicious shiver of anticipation. And, oftentimes, the relationship fizzles out fast.

But it's also important to stay true to the characters. In my current work in progress the hero and heroine are dare-devils and eager for the next big rush. Late twenty-somethings. That said, they get intimate a bit faster than most. It almost felt wrong to wait too long with them. I'm still not sure if it was a good thing or not but the thought of removing their first time together seems… off kilter.
So what's the word? WHEN is too soon in a book? In my case, with this tale, it happened by chapter five. I think on average, things get smokin' hot by chapter ten. In many cases, chapter thirteen.

This post is all about YOUR opinion. I'd love feedback from readers and writers alike.

When is it time for SEX in a book? Be honest.