Every genre has its tropes, or a commonly used theme or device. Fantasy has the “chosen one” or “lost royalty” and horror/thrillers have the “haunted house” and the “final girl” trope. Part of why tropes are used so routinely is that there is comfort in knowing how the story will probably play out, especially in romance. But then, we also enjoy it when a predictable formula gets a fun twist.
Angst – Whether they are star-crossed or hit by some other tragedy, happily ever after may not be possible.
Why We Love It: Sometimes, you just want to be in your feelings. See also: Sad People Music
Give It a Try: Songlight by Moira Buffini
Enemies to Lovers – Two characters meet and start off hating each other’s guts, usually because of a misunderstanding or opposing views, but they realize their feelings for each other.
Why We Love It: The tension, the verbal spats, and the opportunity for great chemistry.
Give It a Try: Love, Off the Record by Samantha Markum
Fake Dating – Maybe it was a one time thing or an on going ruse, but eventually the charade becomes real.
Why We Love It: The fun of watching two characters realize they’ve caught feelings and the plan is falling apart.
Give It a Try: Fake Dates and Mooncakes by Sher Lee
Friends to Lovers – They’ve known each other for a while and even though they used to see each other as just friends, now things are heating up.
Why We Love It: We get to see two characters love each other as friends first, without a physical relationship getting in the way.
Give It a Try: Hockey Girl Loves Drama Boy by Faith Erin Hicks
Love Triangle – Three characters are competing for each other’s love, and only two will pair off.
Why We Love It: We enjoy picking a side and rooting for our favorite ‘ship. Or maybe hoping for a throuple.
Give It a Try: The Midnight Girls by Alicia Jasinska
Meet Cute – The characters meet in a particularly memorable way.
Why We Love It: Instant chemistry from a scenario that introduces us to our characters quickly.
Give It a Try: Rosewood by Sayantani DasGupta
Stuck Together – Two people get snowed in together, assigned as project partners, or stranded on a desert island. Spending time together creates the perfect opportunity for feelings to develop.
Why We Love It: Who doesn’t love it when fate seems to force an unlikely but loveable couple together?
Give It a Try: Exactly Where You Need to Be by Amelia Diane Coombs
In the mood for a little more love? Browse more titles here or check out the Teen Display at the Columbia Public Library!
