February is when our library gets to cater to the interests of our romance readers. For those of you who, like me, were introduced to the romance genre by the paperback bodice rippers of the 80s, you may not realize how vast the romance genre has become! And with the acceptance of the three-way discussions of these steamy stories between writers, readers, and publishers on social media, the romantic genre is sure to continue to find niche stories for their readers.
However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t the same tried and true tropes that continue to thrill romance lovers, no matter what the sub-genre. If you’re looking for a new love this February, we’ve listed a few of our favourite swoon-worthy tropes below along with a few recommended reads that span romantic sub-genres.
Enemies to Lovers
This is when two characters start off loathing each other and, over the course of a book or a series, realize that they were wrong and enter a fiery romantic relationship. Conflict is key with this trope. It drives the romance and the narrative, which is why you’ll often see the characters having to set aside their differences to work together on a shared goal; whether that be pairing up to find a long-lost treasure, defeat an otherworldly demon, or simply save a struggling bookstore. You’ll be drawn to stories with this trope if you delight in the delicious build of tension as the characters tread that thin line between love and hate before passionately tumbling through the sheets and showing us that love wins.
Fake Relationships
A beloved staple in the romance genre, this is when two characters must enter a pretend relationship for mutual benefit, which, of course, leads to the inevitable happily-ever-after. It’s all about the slow burn in this trope! As readers we get to watch the characters navigate will they, won’t they situations as they slowly fall in love while learning each other’s deepest secrets and vulnerabilities. You’ll enjoy stories with this trope if you adore watching characters squirm as they steer through the awkward, funny, and lustful situations that arise from having to keep up with appearances while managing their complicated emotions.
Friends to Lovers
This is when a long-standing friendship between characters gradually transforms into a strong romantic relationship. This trope seems to be one that readers can relate to the most, which means we can scrutinize the believability of it a bit more (some romances make the friends standing in the wings tend to look like clingy nice guys—or girls). However, the friends to lovers trope isn’t supposed to be about shy possessiveness and entitlement. When done well, it can be packed full of slow, sizzling tension as friends explore the deepening affection and intimacy that allows them to reveal vulnerabilities to each other that they’ve shielded from the world. You’ll love this trope if you believe in love’s ability to grow among familiar surroundings.
Second Chance
Another favourite in realm of romance, this trope explores the journey of characters who have parted ways due to various circumstances, reunite to rekindle their relationship. Their story often span decades as the characters are usually high school sweethearts or college lovers who come back together when they get older. Their stories include themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the enduring passion and power of love. You’ll enjoy books with this trope if you have ever had your heart broken and have wished to, somehow, someway, rewrite your story; its about hope.
If you didn’t find your match here, we have a service for you that is far less terrifying than speed dating. You can use our Book Match service! Simply fill out the form and wait for your true love (or loves) to be thoughtfully selected for you.
Add a comment to: Romance Tropes to Fall For