Every romance novel you read makes use of tropes–plot devices that help us to navigate the story in ways that are meaningful and familiar to us. They might expand into larger themes, or be represented as merely a moment in time for our characters. Either way, most readers have tropes they love more than any others… or even some that give them the ick!
For the most part, we actively seek these story elements out and experience them time and time again. But why are we drawn to them? What makes a trope bingeworthy? Research shows that by and large, people love the safety and familiarity that comes with knowing what to expect while also enjoying twists and turns of a new setting, characters, or storyline.
So which tropes are the most popular, and why do we love them so much? Here are a few of my faves:
Enemies-to-Lovers – The push and pull, the witty banter, and the eventual surrender to love? Perfection. It’s a battle of wills that keeps us hooked. Think of Pride and Prejudice (my ultimate re-read), or even paranormal romances featuring rival supernatural beings. You can expect a little of this type of friction in my new Sleepy Hollow Mysteries paracozy series.
Fated Mates – There’s something irresistible about destiny stepping in and saying, ‘You two belong together.’ It adds an element of mysticism and the idea that some loves are simply meant to be! I put my own twist on this one for my Mosswood series, so if you like a little bit of destiny mixed with your romance then you should check it out.
Second Chance Romance – Watching two characters find their way back to each other is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. It’s a testament to personal growth and the idea that true love never really fades. I had a play with this trope in my cute Mosswood novella You Look Familiar, where small town vet Veronica finds herself back in love with Joey–the one who got away… who also turns out to be a secret shapeshifter.
Slow Burn – A romance that develops over time, full of longing glances, subtle touches, and meaningful conversations. The anticipation makes the final confession of love even sweeter. My fave slow burn is The X-Files, and it doesn’t matter how many times I rewatch it I always wait patiently for Mulder and Scully to admit their feelings for each other! I ended up using this trope in my My Celestial Midlife series, throwing surly night-shift nurse Bunny into a slow burn romance with Death himself!
Which romance trope is your favorite? Let’s chat in the comments!