Romantic relationships in fiction vary. A lot. Sometimes they’re easy going and happen naturally. Other times they’re slow and take tons of effort from the characters over time. These different characteristics are called tropes and they shape the love stories we gush over. And we eat it up because what’s more freeing than witnessing a healthy romantic love? It’s fun, it’s cute, and it gives us something to look forward to. So, in no particular order, here’s a list of the best romantic tropes in fiction.
Enemies to Lovers
Fictional couples who go from hating each other’s guts to being totally lovey-dovey, we see you. And we appreciate you. It’s just so heartwarming to see the transformation between the characters. The loathing slowly turning into smooches, are you kidding me?
Friends to Lovers
The characters have been best friends for years and then suddenly, they realize they like the way their pal smiles or cracks bad jokes. A more enhanced version of this is when EVERYONE knows they’re in love except the characters themselves. Such a feel-good romance to watch unfold.
Star-crossed
They want to be together, yet they’re being held back by other forces. It’s truly an impossible love, but still love regardless. This trope makes for a thrilling experience within the audience. Will they end up together? How? What happens to those who held them back? So many curious questions, ready to be finished in time.
Fake relationship
Everyone thinks they’re dating, but only the couple knows it’s not true. They’re just two casual people who are faking it until they reach their personal goals. But wait, they actually fall in love for real and now wish the relationship was genuine. It’s perfect! Especially if it takes forever for the characters to eventually confess their feelings.
Fated love
“It was written in the stars, we are meant to be together.” While fictional characters are free to love whoever they want, nothing is cuter than having them realize the path was made for them: they’re supposed to do this and that, including falling in love with this one person. It makes for a smooth and comforting love story that has us wondering what our fate is, too.
FEATURED IMAGE VIA CANVA