Romance in Volumes:
tropes on tropes in
romance novels
First off, what's a trope? In the romance genre, it's a plot, theme, or device used so often that it has become a convention. If you're a romance reader, you'll recognize a lot, if not all, of these. There are TONS of these, so we've let our resident romance reader, DJ, deep dive into the world of romance writing to create this epic guide.
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Hey readers, DJ here. Welcome to the wild world of romance novels. There are lots of lists of romance tropes out there – short, long, with or without definitions, grouped & categorized differently, varying in opinion and by author. I've tried to make this list diverse, inclusive, and rooted in my own experience as a reader and book reviewer. Or, skip straight to 28 trope-tastic picks below.
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First up, here's a mini index for notable abbreviations used in romance book discussions & reviews.
MINI INDEX
COMMON, USED BELOW
CW / TW = content warnings / trigger warnings
H = hero (male protagonist)
h = heroine (female protagonist)
MC = main character
POV = point of view
YA = young adult (genre)
ROMANTIC PAIRINGS
M/F = male-female
M/M = male-male
F/F = female-female
NB = non-binary; replace M or F
above with NB for non-binary
character in pairing
OTHER ABBREVIATIONS YOU MIGHT SEE IN THE FUTURE
Ace = asexual
Aro = aromantic
Aroace or aro/ace = asexual & aromantic
BBW = big, beautiful woman (plus-sized female protagonist)
BIPOC = black, indigenous, & people of color
(used when describing an author or character)
DNF = did not finish
HEA = happy ever after (ending)
HFN = happy for now (ending)
IR = interracial romance
NSFW = not safe for work (risqué content)
OM / OW = other man / other woman (drama)
OMYM / OWYM = older man, younger woman /
older woman, younger man
ONS = one night stand
OTP = one true pairing (couple you're rooting for)
SA = standalone book
TBR = to be read ("TBR pile")
TSTL = too stupid to live (a character)
UST = unresolved sexual tension
WLW = women loving women (not the same as F/F)
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CHARACTER TROPES VS. THEME TROPES
Sometimes mixed together, character tropes and theme tropes can really be separated. How? Character tropes can also be known as archetypes. Theme tropes look at the actual storyline, plot, or romantic connection between the MCs, as opposed to a single MC’s personality. Here's how I'm breaking up character tropes (developed largely from this blog post by author S.G. Lowell):
Type: Alpha, Beta, Damaged or Tortured, Strong & Silent
Clan/Guild: Highlander, Viking, Shifter, Vampire, Alien
Edge of Danger: Bad Boy/Girl, Biker, Criminal, Outlaw
Location Mentality: Country Boy, Small Town Man/Woman, City Girl
Playboy: Womanizer, Serial Dater, Commitment Phobe, Rake, Femme Fatale
Profession or "Men/Women in Uniform": Athlete, Doctor, Firefighter, Law Enforcement Officer
Public Figure or "Dreamboat": Musician, Actor, Politician
Savior: Military, Special Agent, Spy
Society: Outcast, Rebel, Rogue, Wallflower
Status: Aristocrat, Billionaire, Heiress, Royalty
Some of these can also be theme tropes when the plot revolves heavily around one of these types. For example, “Celebrity” is a theme trope when the MCs are falling in love in the public eye or an actor/musician runs away from the spotlight to fall in love with a normal person.
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Let's look at just a few in a bit more depth.
Alpha Hero (or less commonly, Alpha Heroine)
The H is strong-willed, domineering leader, who is often also successful and/or wealthy. Common personality traits for an Alpha Hero include confident, stubborn, protective, strong, intense, forceful; this often appeals to old-school ideals of the hero taking charge. This character trope often goes with other tropes like Biker, Billionaire, Military, MMA Fighter, etc. For the purposes of defining romance tropes, Alpha Hero is more common, but there’s no reason a lead h can’t be an Alpha Heroine.
Examples: (Alpha Heroes) Wicked Pleasure by Taryn Leigh Taylor (M/F), When Day Breaks by Maya Banks (M/F), Dirty Deeds by S.E. Jakes (M/M), Shadow and Ice by Gena Showalter (M/F) / (Alpha Heroines) Block Shot by Kennedy Ryan (M/F), Madeline Martin’s Mercenary Maidens series (M/F), Warrior of the Wild by Tricia Levenseller (M/F), Unexpected by Lori Foster (M/F)
Important note: Taken too far, the Alpha Hero can also become an Alphahole, which is super controversial in the romance genre. Alphaholes go beyond acceptable “alpha” standards to being straight assholes (hence alpha-asshole = alphahole). While some readers still seem to go for alphahole Hs, it’s important to ensure that Alpha Heroes resist being Alphaholes, as these characters are problematic, often removing consent and veering towards abusive and unhealthy relationships. At the point where things like gaslighting, manhandling or assault, dubious consent, humiliation & intimidation, or threats & punishment come into play, this is problematic, and should never be considered acceptable under the guise of an Alpha Hero. Check out what author Sarah Maclean has to say on writing a better Alpha.
Beta Hero
Defined more by what he’s not, than what he is, the beta H is not an alpha – usually less prone to jealousy, making commands, or doing things for the h’s own good. Beta Hs are often gentler, kinder, more in touch with emotions, and more laid back; sometimes paired with an Alpha h (or an Alpha Hero in M/M) for Opposites Attract. When written badly, a Beta H can be boring, passive-aggressive, or lame, but written well can be sweet & interesting. For more, see this article by Katie Gowrie. A Beta Hero might be shy, calm, introverted, quiet, or just easy going - think type B vs type A personality.
Examples: Daring In a Blue Dress by Katie MacAlister (M/F), Diary of an Accidental Wallflower by Jennifer McQuiston (M/F), Rogue Most Wanted by Janna MacGregor (M/F), Hang the Moon by Alexandria Bellefleur (M/F), The Weight of It All by N.R.Walker (M/M)
Chosen One
One or both of the MCs is/are destined to be the one(s) to complete the mission at hand, usually saving the world or society they live in; the chosen one(s) is/are the only one(s) capable of resolving the major issue of the story. Often in the Fantasy / YA Fantasy genre; popularity increased due to Harry Potter.
Examples: Cinder by Marissa Meyer (M/F), Carry On by Rainbow Rowell (M/M), The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (M/F), Fever series by Karen Marie Moning (M/F), Arc of a Scythe series by Neal Shusterman (M/F)
Wallflower
For some reason, this h has been overlooked because she doesn’t fit into the standard molded by rigid society; sometimes the “wallflower” is also a “spinster”, meaning she has stayed single beyond the normal age of the historical period (as in, an age that’s more than normal by today’s standards, e.g. 28); occurs in the Historical Romance genre. Some wallflowers are shy, some are too intellectual to fit in with other silly society girls, and some are rebellious, purposely flouting social conventions. Sub-trope: Spinsters. More about wallflowers by author Christy Carlyle.
Examples: A Week to be Wicked by Tessa Dare (M/F), The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever by Julia Quinn (M/F), The Duke & The Wallflower by Jessie Clever (M/F), The Wallflower Series by Lisa Kleypas (M/F), Wallflower Gone Wild by Maya Rodale (M/F), One Night for Seduction by Erica Ridley (M/F), Darcy Burke’s The Spitfire Society series (M/F), Emma V. Leech’s Girls Who Dare series (M/F), Her Lady to Love by Jane Walsh (F/F), The Wallflower Wager by Tessa Dare (M/F)
But wait! Cassic character typologies can be reductive and limiting.
Think: an MC who has depth beyond their profession or status, or a character who falls into many categories. Instead, I like Tami Cowden’s archetypes, which look more at motivations, history, and layered personality traits.
The Eight Hero Archetypes: The Chief, The Bad Boy, The Best Friend, The Charmer, The Lost Soul, The Professor, The Swashbuckler, The Warrior
The Eight Heroine Archetypes: The Boss, The Seductress, The Spunky Kid, The Free Spirit, The Waif, The Librarian, The Crusader, The Nurturer
Okay, now on to the best part...
IT'S THEME TROPE TIME a.k.a. THE REAL TROPES
The example books for each trope are in no particular order, but I tried to include variety in terms of sub-genres, authors, and representation. I have not personally read all of the books for each trope (I've read some) , but I have read my 10 Trope-tastic Picks :) Tropes can be polarizing! Personally, I will read or discard a book based on its tropes, and everyone has their own favorites (and least favorites). I've added mine at the end.
Best Friend's Sibling / Sibling's Best Friend
Blast from the Past / Shared Past
Enemies to Lovers / Hate to Love
Friends With Benefits or No Strings Attached
Grieving Lover / Widow / Widower
Hidden Identity / Secret Identity
Marriage Tropes (Accidental, Arranged, Convenience, Honor)
Matchmaker / Matchmaker Gone Wrong
Neighbors / Girl Next Door / Boy Next Door
Age Gap
There is a noticeable age gap between the MCs, but less than 15 years difference or unknown.
Sub-tropes: May-December (age gap of more than 15 years); Cougar (older h/younger H).
See also Forbidden Love, Guardian/Ward.
Examples: All Grown Up by Vi Keeland (M/F), Off the Ice by Avon Gale & Piper Vaughn (M/M), Happiness for Beginners by Katherine Center (M/F), Never Again by Lilliana Anderson (M/F), Mr. President by Katy Evans (M/F), Hurt Me by Ker Dukey (M/M), The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite (F/F)
Movie Example: How Stella Got Her Groove Back
Amnesia
H/h suffers temporary or permanent memory loss and is forced to start over and reclaim their identity. Sometimes one half of the couple knows more about their relationship, and is often involved in helping the other recover their memories.
See also Hurt/Comfort or Nursed Back to Health, Hidden Identity / Secret Identity, Mistaken Identity, Return from the Dead.
Examples: Whiteout by Elyse Springer (M/M), Repeat by Kylie Scott (M/F), Someone to Watch Over Me by Lisa Kleypas (M/F), Partners in Crime by Elise Sax (M/F), Shadow Woman by Linda Howard (M/F), How to Forget a Duke by Vivienne Lorret (M/F), Once More, My Darling Rogue by Lorraine Heath (M/F), Alias by Cari Hunter (F/F), White Lies by Linda Howard (M/F)
Movie Example: The Vow
Also, 50 First Dates
Armed Forces / Military
H/h is current or former military, where it is a large part of their identity. They may be on an active mission, attracted to someone in their unit/team or they are no longer active, but described as a badass due to experience in combat (usually an Alpha Hero in more traditional romance). If no longer active, they might use skills gained from their previous experience in a career like private security and/or they might be dealing with PTSD or other post-military service issues like returning home wounded. Sometimes other operatives or military connections come into play.
See also Danger, Partners in Fighting Crime, Protector.
Examples: Battle Scars by Meghan O’Brien (F/F), I Am Justice by Diana Muñoz Stewart (M/F), Between Ghosts by Garrett Leigh (M/M), Once Burned by L.A. Witt (M/F), The Night Stalker series by M.L. Buchman (M/F), More from Book Riot
Movie Example: An Officer and A Gentleman
Also, Dear John
Artificial Intelligence
H/h falls for a sentient robot (i.e. computer creation come to life) or disembodied form of A.I., such as a holographic character. Seen in genres like Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Space Opera, Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic, etc.
Examples: Cinder by Marissa Meyer (M/F), Our Lady of the Ice by Cassandra Rose Clarke (M/F and F/F), The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers (unclear LGBTQ), The Silver Metal Lover by Tanith Lee (M/F), The Mad Scientist’s Daughter by Cassandra Rose Clarke (M/F), The Cybernetic Tea Shop by Meredith Katz (F/F), The A.I. Who Loved Me by Alyssa Cole (M/F)
Movie Example: Her
Beauty & the Beast
One MC has physical scars that cause esteem issues where he/she (usually he) thinks he cannot be with the more traditionally beautiful character. Often disfigured or injured in an accident or wartime, leading to both emotional & physical scars to overcome. This can be a Beauty & the Beast retelling (see also Retelling), but it can be an entirely different premise, as long as one MC fills the role of “beast” while the other is “beauty”. See also Makeover, Opposites Attract.
Examples: The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare (M/F), When Beauty Tamed the Beast by Eloisa James (M/F), If You Deceive by Kresley Cole (M/F), Beauty and the Rake by Erica Monroe (M/F), Beast by Asha King (M/F), Beau and the Beast by Rick R. Reed (M/M), Beauregard and the Beast by Evie Drae (M/M)
Movie Example: Beastly
Best Friend's Sibling / Sibling's Best Friend
MCs are connected through one of their siblings. This usually involves the H/h fighting their feelings, often thinking their best friend will be mad at them. Sometimes the H/h sees the other in a new romantic light; sometimes they have always felt this way & hidden it for years (see also Unrequited Love).
Common variations: H + best friend’s (usually younger) sister, h + best friend’s brother, H + sister’s best friend, h + (usually older) brother’s best friend (but can really be any combo)
See also Age Gap, Blast from the Past / Shared Past, Fling / One Night Stand, Forbidden Love, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn Romance, Neighbors, Protector, Wedding Fever.
Examples: Pretending He’s Mine by Mia Sosa (M/F), The Break-Up Bet by Cat Carmine (M/F), 99% Mine by Sally Thorne (M/F), In Her Court by Tamsen Parker (F/F), Fast Track by Julie Garwood (M/F), All the Ways to Ruin a Rogue by Sophie Jordan (M/F), How to Marry a Marquess by Stacy Reid (M/F), Rocket Science by K.M. Neuhold (M/M), Being Hospitable by Meka James (F/F)
Movie Example: Bring It On
Bet / Dare / Wager
A bet or dare is involved in the H or h approaching their to-be love interest, later causing complications & distrust when the other finds out they were only approached as part of a dare/bet. This can often include a popular character going for an unpopular wallflower (i.e. high school romance where h transforms a geeky H, making him popular) or a situation where friends dare the H/h to hit on someone in a different league from them as a joke. Alternatively, both MCs are in on it, making a bet or wager against each other.
See also Blackmail, Makeover, Opposites Attract.
Examples: The Break-Up Bet by Cat Carmine (M/F), After the Kiss by Lauren Layne (M/F), The Coaching Hours by Sara Ney (M/F), Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie (M/F), Season for Surrender by Theresa Romain (M/F), Date Me, Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye (M/M), Must Love Dukes by Elizabeth Michels (M/F), How the Marquess Was Won by Julie Anne Long (M/F), Bet Against Me by Fiona Riley (F/F), The Dating Dare by Jayci Lee (M/F), Bet The Farm by Staci Hart (M/F), Emma V. Leech’s Girls Who Dare series (M/F), HIM by Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy (M/M), Lady Claire Is All That by Maya Rodale (M/F)
Movie Example: How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days
Alternatively, She's All That
Billionaire / CEO
One of the MCs is extremely rich & successful, usually to the awe (and sometimes discomfort) of the love interest. The romance market is saturated with the Billionaire/CEO H/normal or poor h match-up (sometimes referred to as the Cinderella trope), but you can find other combinations, like an inversion, a M/M version, or both MCs as billionaires. Often traditionally classified as “Billionaire/CEO Hero” and “Heiress”, we’re combining them into a more updated gender-neutral “Billionaire/CEO” category.
See also Celebrity, Lords & Ladies, Opposites Attract (usually Rich vs Poor / Different Worlds), Rags to Riches, Workplace (usually Boss: Employee).
Examples: Arden St. Ives series by Alexis Hall (M/M), Beautiful Bastard by Christina Lauren (M/F), Managed by Kristen Callihan (M/F), Devil’s Deal by Michele Arris, Jennifer Probst’s Marriage to a Billionaire series (M/F), A Gentleman in the Street by Alisha Rai (M/F)
Want more? Check out Book Riot's "28 Steamy Billionaire Romances" or this list of "41 Great Billionaire Romance Novels You Will Want to Read" from Romance.io
Movie Example: Two Weeks Notice
Also, Maid in Manhattan
Blackmail
Handle with care; can veer towards, or become, problematic.
The H/h blackmails the other MC into doing something they want. This should be done in a fun way to avoid becoming problematic. Alternatively, one of the MCs is being maliciously blackmailed and their love interest must help them discover the blackmailer / plot.
See also Bet / Dare / Wager, Danger, Revenge.
Examples: The Royal Runaway by Lindsay Emory (M/F), Must Love Dukes by Elizabeth Michels (M/F), Charming as a Verb by Ben Philippe (M/F), The Soldier’s Scoundrel by Cat Sebastian (M/M), My Darling Duke by Stacy Reid (M/F), Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli (M/M), Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry by Joya Goffney (M/F), Blackmail Boyfriend by Chris Cannon (M/F)
Blast from the Past / Shared Past
The h/H encounters someone from their past by coincidence or surprise. Alternatively, the h/H is forced to return to their hometown and face where they grew up. The MCs have a history together that must now be resolved in the present; this past could be dark & dramatic or have been a wonderful period in their lives. The MCs should not already be exes – this falls instead under Second Chance. Example scenarios include being from the same hometown, attending school or an academy together, family rivalries or feuds, etc.
Examples: This Is Kind of an Epic Love Story by Kacen Callender (M/M), The Henna Wars by Abida Jaigirdar (F/F), A Lot Like Adiós by Alexis Daria (M/F), All Night Long by Jayne Ann Krentz (M/F), Just For a Moment by Kate Carley (M/F), Much Ado About Barbecue by Sally Kilpatrick (M/F), Love’s Recipe by Mila Nicks (M/F), Talk Me Down by Victoria Dahl (M/F), The Rebound by Catherine Walsh (M/F), Seven Days in June by Tia Williams (M/F), River Road by Jayne Ann Krentz (M/F), The Thing About Love by
Julie James (M/F)
Movie Example: Love, Rosie
Sub-tropes: All Grown Up, Return to Hometown, Reunion.
All Grown Up: The MCs haven’t seen each other since childhood, and when they meet again, one or both find that the other is now super attractive (i.e. “all grown up”) and now see their old childhood friend/acquaintance in a new romantic light. Sometimes, either the h or H was into the other all along (see also Unrequited Love); sometimes one was too young to be seen that way previously.
Examples: All Grown Up by Vi Keeland (M/F), At Attention by Annabeth Albert (M/M)
Blind Date
A well-known basic set-up in real life, the blind date trope in romance is used in different ways to set up the plot or premise. Usually the blind date goes terribly and is a force of contention between the MCs when they inevitably have to meet again. Sometimes, friends or family are pushing the blind date scenario, and keep trying to get the MCs together.
Examples: Written in the Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur (F/F), Love Scammed by Rilzy Adams (M/F), Flirting with Forever by Cara Bastone (M/F), The Do-Over by M.K. Schiller (M/F), Kissing Tolstoy by Penny Reid (M/F)
Movie Example: Man Up
Also, Something New
Bookish Themes
When the plot includes books as a main component of the story. Often one of the MCs works in a literary field, i.e. as an author/writer, librarian, bookstore owner. Sometimes, the MCs bond over reading and/or an MC is defined by their love for books.
Examples: Beach Read by Emily Henry (M/F), Well Met by Jen Deluca (M/F), Bookish and the Beast by Ashley Poston, Romancing the Page series by Laura Ambrose (F/F), Love in the Stacks by Cara Malone (F/F), L.B. Dunbar’s Green Valley Library series (M/F), The Will Darling Adventures series by K.J. Charles (M/M), Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson (M/F), Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon (M/M)
Movie Example: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
Also, Dan in Real Life & Austenland
Celebrity
At least one of the MCs is famous. A popular version of this trope is the famous celebrity retreating somewhere and falling for someone far from the spotlight (also known as sub-trope Famous and Normal). Alternatively, both MCs are famous and fall in love in the public eye.
Sub-trope: Rock Star (specifically famous for being a musician).
See also Fish out of Water, Hidden Identity / Secret Identity, Royalty.
Examples: Until it Fades by K.A. Tucker (M/F), Lick by Kylie Scott (M/F), Under the Lights by Dahlia Adler (F/F), Off the Record by K.A. Linde (M/F), If This Gets Out by Sophie Gonzalez & Cale Dietrich (M/M), The Red Hot Cajun by Sandra Hill (M/F), The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by Elizabeth O’Roark (M/F)
Want more? Check out "The Essential Celebrity Romance Books" by HEA Novel Thoughts
Movie Example: Notting Hill
Alternatively, A Star is Born
Circle of Friends
Three or more protagonists all searching for love, in parallel to pursuing their careers & passions. For example: a group of ballet dancers, actors on the same film set, students at the same school, a friend group in the big city. Usually written as a series, with each relationship getting its own book in the series.
Examples: Penny Reid’s Knitting in the City series (M/F), Lauren Layne’s Stiletto and Oxford series (M/F), The Wallflower Series by Lisa Kleypas (M/F), The Untouchables series by Darcy Burke (M/F), A Summer in Sonoma by Robyn Carr (M/F), Chasing Harry Winston by Lauren Weisberger (M/F), Cocktails for Three by Madeleine Wickham (M/F), Adriana Herrera's Dreamers series (M/M & M/F)
Movie Example: Love Actually
Also, Stuck in Love & Valentine's Day
Coming of Age
Usually dealing with teenagers becoming adults, and falling in love, while they learn about themselves. Typically, but not exclusively, found in the Young Adult genres. Coming of Age stories focus on one or both of the MCs learning about themselves and coming into their own, beyond the romance between the MCs. Typically, these fall into the sub-trope First Love, but do not have to be the h/H’s first love – there’s usually a focus on self-love, but obviously at the same time as a romantic love in the romance genre.
Examples: Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli (M/M), Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender (M/M, transgender), Warrior of the Wild by Tricia Levenseller (M/F), The DUFF: Designated Ugly Fat Friend by Kody Keplinger (M/F), To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han (M/F), When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon (M/F), Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan (M/F), The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen (M/F), People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry (M/F), This Love Story Will Self-Destruct by Leslie Cohen (M/F), Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers (F/F), As Far As You’ll Take Me by Phil Stamper (M/M)
Movie Example: Call Me By Your Name
First Love: As a subset of Coming of Age, the story must revolve around the MCs first serious relationship. See also Second Chance for reuniting with first loves or high school sweethearts.
Examples: Normal People by Sally Rooney (M/F), Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman (M/M), Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell (M/F), The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger (M/F), Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Márquez (M/F), Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon (M/F), The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks (M/F), My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick (M/F)
See also: Coming Out, Second Chance.
Coming Out
An LGBTQ character either discovers their sexual identity due to a specific love interest or decides to come out about their true sexuality, leading to a new relationship.
See also Coming of Age.
Examples: Cool for the Summer by Dahlia Adler (F/F), Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli (M/M), One Man Guy by Michael Barakiva (M/M), The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun (M/M), The Backup Boyfriend by River Jaymes (M/M), Hooked on You by Jenn Matthews (F/F), Love Frankie by Jacqueline Wilson (F/F), In at the Deep End by Kate Davies (F/F)
Movie Example: Love, Simon
Country Inn
A career-driven h/H inherits or buys a charming little inn, bed-and-breakfast, or guest house, in the countryside or small town. Sometimes, this involves both love interests inheriting part of the same house or being forced share space, for example due to requirements of a will (see also Forced Proximity).
Sub-tropes: Two People Inherit the Same Thing, Unexpected Inheritance (contemporary twists on this trope could include unexpectedly inheriting any business).
See also Blast from the Past (Return to Hometown), Neighbors, Renovation.
Examples: Jingle Wars by R. Holmes (M/F), Shortcake by Lucy Watson (M/F), Whispers at Midnight by Karen Robards (M/F), Satisfaction Guaranteed by Karelia Stetz-Waters (F/F), Romancing the Duke by Tessa Dare (M/F), Lucky Harbor series books 1-3 by Jill Shalvis, The Suite Spot by Trish Doller (M/F), Restoring Grace by Katie Fforde (M/F), Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle (M/F), The Will by Kristen Ashley (M/F)
Want more? Check out Bookbub's "11 Romance Where Two People Inherit the Same Thing" list.
Movie Example: Falling Inn Love
Also, All of My Heart & Australia
Cowboy / Western
Could be an actual cowboy character in a historic setting or the H is a modern-day rancher or Texas Ranger, embodying characteristics of the American frontier such as courage, integrity, and usually a bit of chauvinism (or gallantry/chivalrous in a better character). This goes beyond a basic “country boy” character archetype, as there’s an entire sub-genre of Cowboy or Western Romances. While traditional / old-school romances almost always feature the H as the cowboy, this could obviously be subverted to be a cowgirl h. The story often takes place on a ranch or in some other classic western setting.
Examples: One Night Rodeo by Lorelei James (M/F), A Man to Call My Own by Johanna Lindsey (M/F), Donna Grant’s Heart of Texas series (M/F), Dare You to Resist the Bull Rider by Lacy Anderson (M/F), Cat Johnson’s Oklahoma Nights series (M/F), Seduced by a Stallion by Deborah Fletcher Mello (M/F), A.M. Arthur’s Clean Slate Ranch series (M/M)
Want more? Check out the Cowboy archetype on Smart Bitches Trashy Books.
Movie Example: The Longest Ride
Alternatively, A Million Ways to Die in the West
Cyrano
The classic definition of this is when a less physically attractive, nerdy/emotionally intelligent guy helps a handsome, inarticulate/shy guy win over his dream girl. However, for the purposes of the modern romance genre, I’m expanding this to include any twist on this, where a friend is helping someone get the attention or love of someone else. Sometimes those involved in this situation are labeled “The Cyrano” (helping friend, the ultimate “wingman/woman”), “The Christian” (attractive front man/woman), and “The Roxane” (intended love interest / one being wooed). The helpful friend (The Cyrano) could end up falling for the object of affection (The Roxane) themselves, or the friend being helped (The Christian) realizes their match was right in front of them all along (The Cyrano). Note: We’re only here for this when two MCs end up happily in love – no real Cyrano recreations, thank you very much.
Sub-tropes: Catfishing (where someone who is shy or insecure using their more physically attractive friend as their “face” while they hide in the background, kind of a reverse-Cyrano, if you will); Ghost-Writing.
See also Beauty and the Beast, Hidden Identity / Secret Identity, Love Triangle, Matchmaker / Matchmaker Gone Wrong, Retelling, Unrequited Love.
Examples: Love in the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas (M/F), M or F? by Lisa Papademetriou & Chris Tebbetts (M/F & M/M), Say Yes to the Marquess by Tessa Dare (M/F), Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender (trans M/M), The Perfect Fake Date by Naima Simone (M/F), The Unworthy Duke by Charlotte Anne (M/F), We Are the Perfect Girl by Ariel Kaplan (M/F), Ghosting: A Love Story by Tash Skilton (M/F)
Want more? Check out BookRiot's "Letters & Longing: Retellings of Cyrano de Bergerac".
Movie Example: Whatever It Takes
Alternatively, Sierra Burgess is a Loser
Danger
The MCs are in mortal danger; sometimes, this results in them being on the run from said danger together, fighting to stay alive while falling in love. Often in the Romantic Suspense genre.
Sub-trope: Spies.
See also Deadline, Thief / Heist, Partners in Fighting Crime, Protector, Quest.
Examples: Shameless by Karen Robards (M/F), Cinderman by Ann Stuart (M/F), Packing Heat by Penny McCall (M/F), A Week to Be Wicked by Tessa Dare (M/F), I Thee Wed by Amanda Quick (M/F), Tempted All Night by Liz Carlyle (M/F), Hello Stranger by Lisa Kleypas (M/F), The Witness by Nora Roberts (M/F), Black Ice by Anne Stuart (M/F), The Scorpion by Gerri Hill (F/F)
Movie Example: Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Dating Game
From online dating apps to hook-up apps, speed dating sessions to blind dates, the (usually newly) single h/H has to deal with the world of dating, often going on multiple funny, crazy, or weird dates.
See also Blind Date, Fake Relationship, Fling / One Night Stand, Pen Pals (Tech Communication).
Examples: My Favorite Half-Night Stand by Christina Lauren (M/F), Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren (M/F), Sex, Lies, and Online Dating by Rachel Gibson (M/F), The Love Study by Kris Ripper (M/NB), Three Blind Dates by Meghan Quinn (M/F), Chat Love by Justine Faeth (M/F), 10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston (M/F)
Movie Example: Must Love Dogs
Deadline
There is a set time scale where the one or both of the MCs have only so long to accomplish a task. Sometimes working together to accomplish a goal by the deadline is what brings them together.
See also Quest.
Examples: To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo (M/F), Codebreaker Trilogy by Julie Kenner (M/F), Inherit Midnight by Kate Kae Myers (M/F), A Complicated Love Story Set in Space by Shaun David Hutchinson (M/M), Down Comes The Night by Allison Saft (M/bi F)
Movie Example: Seeking a Friend for the End of the World
Also, Passengers
Enemies to Lovers / Hate to Love
The MCs start as enemies, sometimes due to a past event or just can’t stand each other on sight. The build in their relationship from anger to attraction, filled with banter, to love, makes up most of the narrative. The nuance difference for Hate to Love is usually more one-sided as opposed to a mutual dislike or rivalry.
Sub-trope: Academic Rivals (movie example: Candy Jar)
See also Blackmail, Forced Proximity, Opposites Attract, Revenge, Slow Burn Romance.
Examples: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (M/F), The Hating Game by Sally Thorne (M/F), Passion on Park Avenue by Lauren Layne (M/F), The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren (M/F), Kiss the Girl by Melissa Brayden (F/F), To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo (M/F), Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson (M/F), The Importance of Being Wicked by Victoria Alexander (M/F), Carry On by Rainbow Rowell (M/M), Something About You by Julie James (M/F), Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston (M/M), The Only Thing Worse Than Me Is You by Lily Anderson (M/F), Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid (M/M)
Want more? Check out "The Best Enemies-To-Lovers Books To Read Now" from Bustle and "23 Enemies to Lovers Romances We Definitely Don’t Hate to Love" from Epic Reads
Movie Example: Pride and Prejudice
Alternatively, The Ugly Truth
Fake Relationship
The H/h needs to produce a date or fiancé in a hurry and the other MC steps into the role, leading to a genuine connection. Some reasons for faking the relationship include appeasing a family member, professional appearances, making an ex or crush jealous, getting loved ones to back off setups, and many others. Occasionally might present in the form of the MCs going undercover as a married couple.
Sub-tropes: Fake Dating, Fake Engagement, Undercover Married Couple.
See also Friends to Lovers, Friends With Benefits or No Strings Attached, Hidden Identity / Secret Identity, Holiday, Marriage Tropes (Marriage of Convenience), Matchmaker / Matchmaker Gone Wrong, Partners in Fighting Crime, Slow Burn Romance, Wedding Fever.
Examples: Marriage on Madison Avenue by Lauren Layne (M/F), The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren (M/F), Written in the Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur (F/F), The Single Matchmaker by J.J. Arias (F/F), Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall (M/M), The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood (M/F), A Not So Meet Cute by Meghan Quinn (M/F), Behind the Veil by Kathryn Nolan (M/F), The NewlyFEDS by Logan Chance (M/F), Limited Edition Husband by Lauren Blakely (M/M)
Movie Example: The Proposal
Alternatively, Picture Perfect
Fish Out of Water
The h/H comes from a small town to the big city and is unprepared for the sophistication of the love interest; alternatively, a h/H from the big city finds her/himself in a small town falling for the charm of a local. Could also refer to one or both of the MCs being in a new, unfamiliar location.
Sub-trope: New Kid in Town.
See also Country Inn, Holiday, Opposites Attract, Vacation.
Examples: Gone Country by Katrina Marie (M/F), Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins (M/F), A Duke by Default by Alyssa Cole (M/F), 500 Miles from You by Jenny Colgan (M/F), The Marriage Code by Brooke Burroughs (M/F), Much Ado About You by Samantha Young (M/F), Troublemaker by Linda Howard (M/F), Hard Tail by J.L. Merrow (M/M), The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (M/F), You’re a Mean One, Matthew Prince by Timothy Janovsky (M/M)
Movie Example: New In Town
Fling / One Night Stand
The MCs relationship begins with what was supposed to only be a fling or a one night stand.
See also Blast from the Past / Shared Past, Dating Game, Friends With Benefits or No Strings Attached, Unexpected Pregnancy.
Examples: Takeover by Anna Zabo (M/M), It’s Hard Out Here for a Duke by Maya Rodale (M/F), The Devil’s Thief by Samantha Kane (M/F), Remedial Rocket Science by Susannah Nix (M/F), Fight or Flight by Samantha Young (M/F), A Guy Walks Into My Bar by Lauren Blakely (M/M), Trouble in High Heels by Christina Dodd (M/F), In Her Arms by Melissa Tereze (F/F), A Secret for a Secret by Helena Hunting (M/F), Her Night with the Duke by Diana Quincy (M/F), The Hate Project by Kris Ripper (M/M), Accidental Lies by Dana Mason (M/F)
Movie Example: Two Night Stand
Forbidden Love
For some reason, the MCs know they shouldn’t be together. Race, religion, conflicting culture, or feuds are some of the forces potentially working to keep the lovers apart. Sometimes the h/H has been told to stay away from their love interest. There are a bunch of different ways this trope can be done with different obstacles and degrees of "forbiddenness" (no, it's not a real world).
Sub-tropes: Cultural Opposites, Competitors, Different Sides of the Law, Love Across Battle Lines, Love Obstructing Parents, Monster/Slayer, Promised to Someone Else (not when someone is in a committed relationship with someone else & cheating - that would go under taboo we aren't here for), Star-Crossed Lovers, Sworn Enemies, Unequal Pairing (e.g. Diety/Mortal, Muggle/Mage, Ruler/Consort).
See also Best Friend's Sibling / Sibling's Best Friend, Enemies to Lovers, Opposites Attract, Protector, Workplace Romances.
Examples: The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (M/F), An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson (M/F), Of Fire and Stars by Audrey Coulthurst (F/F), To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo (M/F), Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson (M/F), Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston (M/M), Scoring Wilder by R.S. Grey (M/F), Forbidden by Beverly Jenkins (M/F), Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins (M/F)
Want more? Check out "What Makes Forbidden Love So Alluring by Alanna Martin" from Frolic Media.
Movie Example: West Side Story
Alternatively, The Illusionist
Related to Forbidden Love is Taboo Romance. Not everyone is going to like these and some readers will accept one, but not others. The degree of “taboo” can range across slightly distasteful or improper by societal standards, but ultimately accepted by most, to very objectionable that would never be accepted out in the open. For the purposes of this list, we will only include the more commonly acceptable or “pseudo-taboo” sub-tropes here...
Sub-tropes: Best Friend’s Parent / Parent’s Best Friend, Doctor/Patient, Professor/Student (under college age goes under problematic), Step-Siblings / Kissing Cousins (2nd cousins or more distant).
See also Age Gap, Guardian/Ward.
Examples: Change of Course by Sierra Hill (M/M), Fallen Too Far by Abbi Glines (M/F), Kissing Tolstoy by Penny Reid (M/F), Disarm by Karina Halle (M/F), The Fall Before Flight by L.M. Halloran (M/F), Strings Attached by Riley Hart (M/M), Wrath by Ella James (M/M), A Good Debutante’s Guide to Ruin by Sophie Jordan (M/F)
Taboo tropes that we are not here for (these fall into the Problematic Tropes list below): Cheating / Adultery, Incest / Siblings, Step-Parent, Oppressor & Oppressed (Slave), Dubious / Non Consent.
Forced Proximity
MCs find themselves stuck together for a period of time. This can be due to a wide range of reasons – a storm, overnight house party, travel complication, etc. Also known as “Trapped in an Elevator”.
Sub-tropes:Only One Bed (due to something outside their control, the MCs are forced to share a bed, usually on a trip); Road Trip / On the Road, Stranded / Snowbound (specifically, the MCs are stranded together away from civilization, i.e. snowed in at a remote cabin; other plots include car wreck / flat tire, cancelled flight, etc.).
See also Country Inn, Danger, Fake Relationship, Guardian/Ward, Hurt/Comfort or Nursed Back to Health, Kidnapped, Marriage Tropes, Neighbors, Partners in Fighting Crime, Reality TV / Competition, Roommates / Cohabitation (technically a sub-trope, but popular enough that I have it in its own category on this list), Workplace Romance.
Examples: Whiteout by Adriana Anders (M/F), Storm Season by Pene Henson (F/F), Applied Electromagnetism by Susannah Nix (M/F), Uncharted by Adriana Anders (M/F), The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee (M/M), Scotland or Bust by Kira Archer (M/F), Teddy Spenser Isn’t Looking for Love by Kim Fielding (M/M), A Scot’s Surrender by Lily Maxton (M/M), The Earl of Her Dreams by Anne Mallory (M/F), Love and Other Train Wrecks by Leah Konen (M/F), The Bromance Zone by Lauren Blakely (M/M), The Survivors by Dinah McCall (M/F), Darkness by Karen Robards (M/F)
Want more? Check out this list by author Susanna Carr.
Movie Example: Leap Year
Also, It Happened One Night & Six Days, Seven Nights
Friends to Lovers
MCs are friends who discover a growing attraction to each other. This is often an unsettling realization for the h/H, who is just now seeing their platonic friend in a new romantic light. Sometimes, it’s new for both of them; sometimes, one of the MCs has had feelings for the other for a long time, but has chosen to ignore these feelings in favor of friendship.
See also Blast from the Past / Shared Past, Friends with Benefits or No Strings Attached, Unrequited Love.
Examples: My Favorite Half-Night Stand by Christina Lauren (M/F), Marriage on Madison Avenue by Lauren Layne (M/F), Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz (M/M), What Happens at Christmas by Jay Northcote (M/M), The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee (M/M), The Dare and the Doctor by Kate Noble (M/F), I Think I Love You by Lauren Layne (M/F)
Movie Example: When Harry Met Sally
Friends with Benefits or No Strings Attached
Closely related to both the Fling / One Night Stand and Friends to Lovers tropes - arguably Friends with Benefits is a sub-trope of Friends to Lovers, with No Strings Attached a sub-trope of Fling - they're in their own category here because this trope is more of a nuanced combination of both. MCs that agree on a "friends with benefits" or "no strings attached" arrangement think they can keep feelings out of a sexual arrangement, but this arrangement is what actually leads to feelings getting complicated. This is nuanced from the other two...let me try to elaborate.
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The difference between Friends to Lovers and Friends with Benefits is that the MCs enter into a "friends with benefits" arrangement for the sexual benefits, hoping to keep it casual and separate from their friendship (leading to complications), whereas with the former, friends somehow realize they have feelings beyond friendship without purposefully entering into anything sexual or romantic.​
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Compared to No Strings Attached, the Fling trope does not require an ongoing arrangement, and is usually shorter term, taking place over a week or a summer, for example - something with an end date that isn't expected to go anywhere. While "no strings attached" also isn't supposed to go anywhere romantically, it has no concrete end, but is supposed to suit both parties casually in the meantime. Plus, a fling could involve romantic feelings, just with them knowing it won't go anywhere. They're just different? Hopefully you can figure out the nuance yourself if this isn't doing it.
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The key here is a sexual relationship of some sort, agreed upon by both MCs.
See also Fling / One Night Stand, Friends to Lovers.
Examples: More Than Water by Renee Ericson (M/F), When Joss Met Matt by Ellie Cahill & Liz Czukas (M/F), The List by Joanna Bolouri (M/F), Come Back to Bed by Kayley Loring (M/F), Forbidden Nights by Lauren Blakely (M/F), The Bad Boy Experiment by Reese Ryan (M/F), Common Goal by Rachel Reid (M/M), The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory (M/F)
Movie Example: (ok this one will be v obvious) No Strings Attached
Alternatively, Friends with Benefits
Guardian/Ward
Handle with care; can veer towards, or become, problematic.
Mostly found in the Historical Romance genre, a guardian falls for his/her ward. Sometimes circumstances mean these MCs are close enough in age, other times there is a definite age gap.
See also Age Gap, Forbidden Romance.
Examples: Enzo by K. Webster (M/F), Indiscreet by Kasey Michaels (M/F), Heiress Gone Wild by Laura Lee Guhrke (M/F), Forbidden Love by Karen Robards (M/F), Wicked Promise by Kat Martin (M/F)
Grieving Lover / Widow / Widower
One of the MCs has lost a spouse or lover, usually in the recent past, where they are often still grieving, causing conflict in a new relationship. Can include themes of a second chance at love or love after loss. Sometimes, the h/H is a widow or widower who had a bad first marriage, meaning they are not still hung up on the spouse, but sometimes have hesitations due to their previous marriage (i.e. never want to get married again).
See also Return from the Dead, Single Parent, Terminal Situation, Unexpected Parenthood.
Examples: Float Plan by Trish Doller (M/F), Idlewild by Jude Sierra (M/M), Say You’re Sorry by Melinda Leigh (M/F), Of Sunlight and Stardust by Riley Hart & Christina Lee (M/M), Look the Part by Jewel E. Ann (M/F), Fix You by Beck Anderson (M/F), Brokedown Cowboy by Maisey Yates (M/F), Tonight and Forever by Brenda Jackson (M/F), To Love and to Loathe by Martha Waters (M/F), Man Down by Kate Meader (M/F), Harbor by Rebekah Weatherspoon (M/F)
Movie Example: Our Souls at Night
Alternatively, Catch & Release
Groundhog Day / Time Loop
When a MC finds themselves stuck in a time loop repeating the same day or short time period over and over again, and need to figure out how to get out of this loop, possibly by righting a wrong. Sometimes, the MCs are stuck in the loop together.
See also Quest, Time Travel.
Examples: In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren (M/F), The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton (M/F), Opposite of Always by Justin A. Reynolds (M/F), Pretty in Punxsutawney by Laurie Boyle Crompton (M/F), A Week of Mondays by Jessica Brody (M/F), See You Yesterday by Rachel Lynn Solomon (M/F), Every Time We Meet by A.M. Leibowitz (F/F)
Movie Example: Palm Springs
Hidden Identity / Secret Identity
H/h hides their true identity or creates a false persona to hide involvement in events that usually took place in the past or to go undercover. One version of this could be in the form of a law enforcement officer investigating something & falling in love while under a false identity. Alternatively, the h/H wants to be seen for who they are rather than their wealth or status, or just escape their normal life. Other variations could involve masquerade parties, someone in disguise, or characters switching places.
Sub-tropes: Agony Aunt, Billionaire in Disguise / Secretly a Billionaire, Disguise, Heroine Disguised as a Man, Royalty in Hiding, Undercover (usually law enforcement - see also Partners in Fighting Crime).
See also Mistaken Identity, Twins / Identical Twins, Two Person Love Triangle.
Examples: A Princess in Theory by Alyssa Cole (M/F), Sea Change by Darlene Mashall (M/F), The Witness by Nora Roberts (M/F), Run the Risk by Lori Foster (M/F), The Suffragette Scandal by Courtney Milan (M/F), Desperately Seeking Suzanna by Elizabeth Michels (M/F), Heartbreak for Hire by Sonia Hartl (M/F), Christina Dodd’s Switching Places series (M/F), Masquerading the Marquess & Daring the Duke by Anne Mallory (M/F), Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade (M/F), The Peculiar Folly of Long Legged Meg by Jayne Fresina (M/F), Lord of Secrets by Erica Ridley (M/F)
Movie Example: Mulan
Agony Aunt: One of the MCs has an anonymous advice column (usually in a newspaper or magazine) / replies to readers who write to them for advice on personal problems.
See also Pen Pals.
Examples: Perfect on Paper by Sophie Gonzales (M/bi F & F/F), Dating the Enemy by Nicole Williams (M/F), Falling for Your Enemy by Emma St. Clair (M/F)
Highlander
One or both of the MCs are Scottish Highlanders during the time of clans in historical Scotland; often involves feuding clans in some way. H is often a Laird / clan leader and/or warrior or h is often a promised bride or daughter of a clan leader – beyond a character type, this is usually integral to the romance plot. Known for fiercely protecting their families, strongholds, and lands, Highlanders are portrayed as rougher or more rugged than their English counterparts. Also, English h falling for a Scottish H is common.
See also Lords & Ladies, Royalty, Time Travel. (unsure why, but time travel + highlander seems to be a popular combo)
Examples: Some Like It Scot by Suzanne Enoch (M/F), When a Scot Ties the Knot by Tessa Dare (M/F), When A Laird Loves A Lady by Julie John Stone (M/F), Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon (M/F), Julie Garwood’s Highlands’ Lairds and Lairds’ Fiancées series (M/F), The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley (M/F), The Making of a Highlander by Elisa Braden (M/F), Highland Fire by Elizabeth Thornton (M/F), A Scot's Surrender by Lily Maxton (M/M), To Marry a Scottish Laird by Lynsay Sands
Want more? Check out Fiction Obsessed's "50 Best Scottish Highlander Romance Novels to Read".
Movie Example: (Not a movie, but clearly the best example) Outlander
Holiday
The story revolves around a specific holiday. Christmas is the most common, but it could also be Halloween, Valentine’s Day, New Year’s, etc.
See also Blast from the Past / Shared Past (Return to Hometown), Vacation.
(Non-Christmas) Examples: Labor Day by Joyce Maynard (M/F), Holiday Hunk series by Sarah Spade (M/F), The Matzah Ball by Jean Meltzer (M/F), Trick or Treat Me compilation/anthology by Sophie Brooks & others (M/F), Crazy, Sexy, Ghoulish series by G.G. Andrew (M/F), A Holly Jolly Diwali by Sonya Lalli (M/F), Hearts Alight by Elliot Cooper (M/M), New Year’s Kiss by Lee Matthews (M/F)
Movie Example: Holidate
Sub-tropes: Christmas, Home for the Holidays.
Christmas: Literally set during the Christmas season. Hallmark movies, anyone? This can be anything related to Christmastime, such as one MC teaching the other to once again find the joy of the season. See also Home for The Holidays (specifically if the H/h travels back to a hometown).
Examples: In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren (M/F), Under the Mistletoe by Everly James (F/F), Miracle on 5th Avenue by Sarah Morgan (M/F), Jingle Wars by R. Holmes (M/F), The Trouble With Christmas by Amy Andrews (M/F), Mistletoe and Mr. Right by Sarah Morgenthaler (M/F), Last Christmas in Paris by Hazel Gaynor (M/F), The Holiday Trap by Roan Parrish (M/M & F/F), You’re a Mean One, Matthew Prince by Timothy Janovsky (M/M)
Want more? Check out The Bibliofile's "50 Best Christmas Romance Books for the Holidays".
Home for the Holidays: The h/H returns to a hometown for a national, religious, or cultural holiday and finds romance in a short space of time amid family chaos – often with someone they knew growing up. Also usually, but not always, Christmas-related, but the nuance is that this specifically involves going back to a hometown.
See also Blast from the Past / Shared Past, Second Chance.
Examples: A Bad Boy for Christmas by Jessica Lemmon (M/F), Bottle Rocket by Erin McLellan (M/F), Rebel Without a Claus by Bryce Oakley (F/F), Silent Night by Lily Seabrooke (F/F), Stuffed: A Thanksgiving Romance by Jessica Gaziala (M/F), Charming the Runaway Duke by Maggie Dallen (M/F), Leta Blake’s Home for the Holidays series (M/M)
Hurt/Comfort or Nursed Back to Health
The h/H finds themselves hurt or sick, and the other MC helps in nursing them back to health and/or comforting them. Sometimes recovery is slow, other times it involves restless patient syndrome; often involves emotional healing as well as physical. Usually less dark and traumatic than the sub-trope Scarred / Broken (below); can be related to Forced Proximity, with one MC is bed-bound & the other caring for them.
See also Amnesia, Forced Proximity, Protector, Roommates / Cohabitation.
Examples: A Favor for a Favor by Helena Hunting (M/F), Beloved Stranger by Patricia Potter (M/F), The Serpent Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt (M/F), Block and Strike by Kelly Jensen (M/M), Someone to Watch Over Me by Lisa Kleypas (M/F), Thief of Shadows by Elizabeth Hoyt (M/F, Just Like Heaven by Julia Quinn (M/F), A Cantana of Love by Jacki Delecki (M/F), When a Duke Loves a Woman by Lorraine Heath (M/F)
Want more? Check out this list of Nursed Back to Health romances from Smart Bitches Trashy Books.
Movie Example: The English Patient
Scarred / Broken: A physically or psychologically scarred H/h finds love, while healing from past trauma. Could include, but not limited to, previous abuse, dark & wounded H archetype, PTSD / home from war, or any other dark past that the H/h needs to work through, usually with the help of the other MC. Sometimes deals with a (life-altering) disability.
See also Armed Forces / Military, Beauty and the Beast, Grieving Lover.
Examples: The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay (M/F), The Last Thing He Needs by J.H. Knight (M/M), Wounded by Jasinda Wilder (M/F), Rush by Emma Scott (M/F), Edge of Sight by Roxanne St. Claire (M/F), Skin Deep by Pamela Clare (M/F)
Insta-love
Self-explanatory – the MCs fall in love in an extremely short amount of time, usually without much basis. Controversial, with many readers hating this trope, while fans of love at first sight are here for the insta-love.
See also Fling / One Night Stand, Slow Burn Romance (opposite), Soul Mates / Fated.
Examples: All The Things We Never Knew by Liara Tamani (M/F), Stay Gold by Tobly McSmith (F/M trans), What If It’s Us by Becky Albertalli & Adam Silvera (M/M), City of Bones by Cassandra Clare (M/F), One Day in December by Josie Silver (M/F), A Season for Love by Heather Graham (M/F), Driving Her Crazy by Kira Archer (M/F), Unmasked by the Marquess by Cat Sebastian (M/NB), The Right Kind of Guy by Kerri-Leigh Grady (M/F), Tarnished are the Stars by Rosiee Thor (F/F)
Movie Example: Before Sunrise
Kidnapped
Handle with care; can veer towards, or become, problematic.
H/h is kidnapped and either reluctantly falls in love with his/her abductor, waits to be rescued by the love interest, or has to find a way out on their own, coming across the love interest while escaping.
See also Blackmail, Danger, Partners in Fighting Crime, Protector.
Examples: Conheartists by K. Webster & J.D. Hollyfield (M/F), The Undercover Billionaire by Jackie Ashenden (M/F), The Senator’s Daughter by Amaka Azie (M/F), Sheikh’s Desert Duty by Maisey Yates (M/F), The Duke Heist by Erica Ridley (M/F), A Kingdom of Dreams by Judith McNaught (M/F), Abducted by a Prince by Olivia Drake (M/F)
Movie Example: A Life Less Ordinary
Also, Out of Sight
Left at the Altar
The h/H is metaphorically or literally left at the alter by their spouse-to-be, leaving them humiliated & hurt; often leads to trust issues and fear of commitment and/or marriage in the future. Sometimes involves getting revenge on the ex who humiliated them. Can also be called Jilted Bride / Jilted Groom.
See also Runaway Bride.
Examples: Left at the Altar series by J.S. Scott, Ruth Cardello, Raine Miller, Sawyer Bennett, M. Malone, & Melody Anne (M/F; each book by a different author), Never Love a Highlander by Maya Banks (M/F), Mad, Bad, and Blonde by Cathie Linz (M/F), Trust Me by Jayne Ann Krentz (M/F), Into The Wild by Beth Ciotta (M/F), Everything But a Groom by Holly Jacobs (M/F), Scandal of the Year by Laura Lee Guhrke (M/F), A Good Duke Is Hard to Find by Christina Britton (M/F), Jilted by Lilah Suzanne (bi M/NB) Getaway Girl by Tessa Bailey (M/F), The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa (M/F), Call Me Irresistible by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (M/F), A Summer to Remember by Mary Balogh (M/F), Something Borrowed by Louisa George (M/F), Jilted: Jaren by Nora Phoenix (M/M)
Movie Example: The Wedding Singer
Lords & Ladies
Found in the majority of Historical Romance novels, this trope features at least one titled MC (duke, earl, viscount, marquess, etc). Because of the innate sexism of the times, heroines don’t have titles themselves, but could be ladies, in which their family is titled. Deals with the aristocracy and the ton (the name for the high society of England in the 19th century).
Sub-tropes: Hero with Title / Titled Hero.
See also Highlander, Royalty.
Examples: Sarah MacLean’s Love by Numbers series (M/F), Girl Meets Duke series by Tessa Dare (M/F), My Lady’s Lover by Nicola Davidson (F/F), Unmasked by the Marquess (M/NB), To Love and to Loathe by Martha Waters (M/F), The Rules of Scoundrels series by Sarah MacLean (M/F), A Gentleman’s Position by K.J. Charles (M/M); in general, most books by Julia Quinn, Loretta Chase, Sarah MacLean, Tessa Dare, Lisa Kleypas, Cat Sebastian, Elizabeth Hoyt, Lorraine Heath, Courtney Milan
Want more? Check out author Katherine Grant's "Ultimate List of Historical Romances About Dukes".
Movie Example: (not a movie, but a show) Bridgerton*
*Actually inspired by The Bridgerton series by Julia Quinn (& imho the books are way better)
Love Triangle
Examples: The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins (M/M/F), Drive by Kate Stewart (M/M/F), Matched series by Ally Condie (M/M/F), Rescue Me by Susan May Warren (M/F/F), My Epic Spring Break (Up) by Kristin Rockaway (M/M/F), One Rogue Too Many by Samantha Grace (M/M/F), Cool for the Summer (M/F/F queer), 21 Questions by Mason Dixon (F/F/F)
Want more? Check out "31 Books with Love Triangles That We Simply Adore" by Epic Reads.
Movie Example: Pretty in Pink
Also Center Stage & Bridget Jones's Diary
Makeover
The h/H undergoes a transformation, usually physical, either with the purpose of catching the love interest’s attention, or by the love interest themselves, sometimes as the result of a dare, bet, or wager (see also Bet / Dare / Wager). Alternatively, the H must prove himself by showing a major change in attitude to win over his love interest. Could also involve making over one (or both) of the MC’s public image.
Sub-tropes: Pygmalion - Originally involving a character literally making the other (sculpting a statue), this has been updated to refer to a MC figuratively "making" (over) the other – through giving lessons in speech, behavior, or etiquette – and falling in love with their "creation"; Ugly Duckling to Swan (Was Beautiful All Along).
See also Dating Game, Friends to Lovers, Rags to Riches.
Examples: How to Choose a Guy in 10 Days by Lila Monroe (M/F), You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me by Sarah Manning (M/F), Lady Claire Is All That by Maya Rodale (M/F), Chance Encounters by Jessica Prince (M/F), The Proposition by Judith Ivory (M/F), Romancing the Ugly Duckling by Clare London (M/M), The Making of a Highlander by Elisa Braden (M/F)
Want more? Check out this list by author Susanna Carr.
Movie Example: Princess Diaries
Marriage Tropes
There are 4 main variations of Marriage tropes, each of which involve the MCs getting married for a reason other than love. They are as follows: Accidental Marriage / Married by Mistake, Arranged Marriage / Forced Marriage, Marriage of Convenience, Marriage of Honor / Marriage for Protection.
See also Fake Relationship, Forced Proximity.
Accidental Marriage / Married by Mistake
Almost always involving the sub-trope Vegas / Drunk Marriage, the MCs love story begins after they accidentally end up married to each other. Alternatively, could involve some other sort of mix-up (see also Identical Twins) or a stage wedding later revealed to have been legitimate.
Examples: Mister Wrong by Nicole Williams (M/F), Sweet Filthy Boy by Christina Lauren (M/F), The Wedding Deception by Adrienne Basso (M/F), The Accidental Bride by Denise Hunter (M/F), Marrying Mr. Wrong by Claire Kingsley (M/F), Just Married? by Natasha West (F/F)
Want more? Check out Romance Rehab's "10 All-Time Great Accidental Marriage Romance Reads".
Movie Example: What Happens in Vegas
Arranged Marriage or Forced Marriage
Someone other than the MCs put the marriage into motion, usually their families. This is most common in the Historical Romance genre. Though rare, co-parenting could be a contemporary reason this trope. Alternatively, the H/h is fleeing an arranged marriage.
Examples: The Reluctant Princess by Melissa McClone (M/F), A Bollywood Affair by Sonali Dev (M/F), The Earl Claims a Bride by Amelia Grey (M/F), Winter’s Orbit by Everina Maxwell (M/M), Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (M/F), My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand (M/F), Rebel Hard by Nalini Singh (M/F), Blame It On The Duke by Lenora Bell (M/F)
Movie Example: The Magic of Ordinary Days
Also Fools Rush In & Diwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge
Marriage of Convenience
The marriage is in some way beneficial to the MCs, e.g. green card / avoiding deportation, financial reasons, fulfilling a provision of a will.
Examples: Roomies by Christina Lauren (M/F), Marriage of Inconvenience by Penny Reid (M/F), Far from Home by Lorelie Brown (F/F), The Duke Buys a Bride by Sophie Jordan (M/F), A Rogue by Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean (M/F), Part-Time Husband by Noelle Adams (M/F), Taking a Knee by Sean Ashcroft (M/M), Luck Be a Lady by Meredith Duran (M/F), Crazy Beautiful by Jessica Prince (M/F), A Wicked Kind of Husband by Mia Vincy (M/F)
Movie Example: Green Card
Marriage of Honor / Marriage for Protection
Marriage of Honor is found pretty much exclusively in Historical Romances – the H believes he is duty-bound to marry the h, usually due to a “compromising situation” in the strict societal rules of the time, often to avoid the h being “ruined” or shunned by polite society. Although this could be considered somewhat of a “Forced Marriage” because of society standards, this is more to save a situation than an Arranged Marriage, which is often financially or status related. In a more contemporary context, this could involve any marriage for protection purposes only or for someone to save face (aka honor).
Examples: Wicked in His Arms by Stacy Reid (M/F), The Truth About Cads and Dukes by Elisa Braden (M/F), Electric Idol by Katee Robert (M/F), A Wicked Bargain for the Duke by Megan Frampton (M/F), Accidentally Compromising the Duke by Stacy Reid (M/F), Tempt Me at Twilight by Lisa Kleypas (M/F)
Movie Example: Marry Me
Other, less common Sub-Tropes of the Marriage Trope include Pregnancy-Induced Marriage, Fallback Marriage Pact, Mail-Order Bride, and Marrying the Mark (as part of a con).
Matchmaker / Matchmaker Gone Wrong
A matchmaker is integrally involved in the plot – often they are hired and end up falling for their client. Sometimes, someone else plays the role of matchmaker for the MCs, who end up falling in love.
See also Cyrano, Dating Game, Fake Relationship, Marriage Tropes, Reality TV / Competition.
Examples: Emma by Jane Austen (M/F), Rules of Engagement by J.T. Geissinger (M/F), Miss Match by Fiona Riley (F/F), Match Me If You Can by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (M/F), Ten Kisses to Scandal by Vivienne Lorret (M/F), Truly, Madly by Heather Webber (M/F), The Matchmaker series by Candace Camp (M/F)
Movie Example: Hitch
Mistaken Identity
Similar to Hidden Identity, with the nuance that the false identity is a mistake perpetuated for reasons known best to the h/H who was assumed to be someone they are not (as opposed to purposely presenting a false identity). Sometimes, the h/H mistakes the other for someone from their past, or alternatively, one of the MCs is mistaken for someone rich or royal, or is rich/royal and is mistaken for common.
Sub-tropes: Two Person Love Triangle, Mistaken for Special Guest, Mistaken for Servant.
See also Blind Date, Hidden Identity / Secret Identity, Twins / Identical Twins, Two Person Love Triangle.
Examples: First Comes Like by Alisha Rai (M/F), Read Between the Lines by Rachel Lacey (F/F), Not My Romeo by Ilsa Madden-Mills (M/F), Abducted by a Prince by Olivia Drake (M/F), Baby, I’m Yours by Susan Andersen (M/F), Name Dropping by Jane Heller (M/F), Well Played by Jen DeLuca (M/F)
Movie Example: While You Were Sleeping
Mistress
Handle with care; can veer towards, or become, problematic.
In historical romances, the h is literally the H’s mistress by choice or necessity (he may or may not be in a loveless marriage, but usually is unmarried & unwilling to marry, seeking only a mistress). In contemporary romances, the H is not married, but rather an alpha male who doesn’t seek commitment (related/sub-trope: Russian Hero). If one of the MCs is married, this instead goes to the not-okay cheating trope for us.
See also Lords & Ladies, Love Triangle, Reformed Rake.
Examples: Anything but a Gentleman by Elisa Braden (M/F), Mistress by Amanda Quick (M/F), More Than a Mistress by Mary Balogh (M/F), Secrets of a Summer Night by Lisa Kleypas (M/F)
Movie Example: Three to Tango
Neighbors / Girl Next Door / Boy Next Door
The MCs are neighbors, duh. Involves falling for the new, cute, sexy, or mysterious neighbor.
See also Forced Proximity, Friends to Lovers, Roommates / Cohabitation.
Examples: Passion on Park Avenue by Lauren Layne (M/F), Pink Bits by J.B. Heller (M/F), The Schemer by Avery Flynn (M/F), Wallbanger by Alice Clayton (M/F), The Girl Next Door by Chelsea M. Cameron (F/F), R.L. Mathewson’s Neighbor from Hell series (M/F), The New Neighbor by Rye Cox (M/M), Life’s Too Short by Abby Jimenez (M/F), Accidentally Engaged by Farah Heron (M/F), What If You & Me by Roni Loren (M/F), The Baron Next Door by Erin Knightley (M/F)
Movie Example: Drive Me Crazy
Alternatively, Blind Date (Original French title: Un Peu, Beaucoup, Aveuglément)
Opposites Attract
The MCs are total opposites in some way – shy vs outgoing, neat freak vs hot mess, laid back vs uptight, etc. There are a bunch of variations, with the most popular being Grumpy vs Sunshine (see below).
Sub-tropes: Bad Boy / Good Girl, Different Worlds, Grumpy vs Sunshine, Rich vs Poor / Class Warfare,Want Different Things.
Examples: Love on Lexington Avenue by Lauren Layne (M/F), The Soldier’s Scoundrel by Cat Sebastian (M/M), Hike, Hike, Baby by Xavier Neal (M/F), Dating Dr. Dil by Nisha Sharma (M/F), In a New York Minute by Kate Spencer (M/F), Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez (M/F), Delilah Green Doesn’t Care by Ashley Herring Blake (F/F), Bold Fortune by M.M. Crane (M/F), Eleven Scandals to Start to Win a Duke’s Heart by Sarah MacLean (M/F), Saving from Monkeys by Jessie L. Star (M/F), Trouble and the Wallflower by Kade Boehme (M/M), Sweetest Scoundrel by Elizabeth Hoyt (M/F), Heartbreak Boys by Simon James Green (M/M), Something Like Love by Christina C. Jones (M/F, both bi)
Want more? Check out Jeeves Reads Romance's "15 Awesome Opposites Attract Romance Novels" and "Popular trope: Opposites Attract in Romance Books" by My Reviews Today.
Movie Example: Step Up
Also, Grease & Alpha and Omega
Grumpy vs Sunshine: One MC has an upbeat & sunny personality, while the other has a grumpy personality. Usually, the sunny one has to break through the other’s cold/hard outer shell.
Examples: Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz (M/M), Always Only You by Chloe Liese (M/F), Beach Read by Emily Henry (M/F), Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey (M/F), The Austen Playbook by Lucy Parker (M/F)
Partners in Fighting Crime
The MCs are cops, detectives, FBI agents, or other law enforcement officers who fall in love while solving a crime or working a case (if not both MCs, at least one with the other helping on the case); usually in the Romantic Suspense genre. Alternatively, the MCs are not official law enforcement, but are still working together to bring down something criminal (e.g. private security firms, hackers, etc).
See also Armed Forces / Military, Danger, Protector, Quest, Revenge, Workplace Romance.
Examples: Wicked Sexy by J.T. Geissinger (M/F), Risky Behavior by L.A. Witt & Cari Z. (M/M), Partners in Crime by Elise Sax (M/F), Otherwise Engaged by Amanda Quick (M/F), At Close Range by Laura Griffin (M/F), A Dark and Hollow Star by Ashley Shuttleworth (unknown, featuring 4 queer teens), FBI Thriller series by Catherine Coulter (M/F), The Thing About Love by Julie James (M/F), The NewlyFEDS by Logan Chance (M/F), A Reason To Believe by Diana Copland (M/M), Hunter’s Way by Gerri Hill (F/F), Pretty much anything by Josh Lanyon (M/M), No One Left to Tell by Karen Rose (M/F), Cole McCade’s Criminal Intentions series (M/M), Payback by Charlotte Mills (F/F)
Movie Example: Miss Congeniality
Alternatively, not a movie, but a great example, Bones
Pen Pals
The MCs develop their relationship, mostly or initially, as pen pals of some sort via written letters, emails, notes, online chats, or texts. This really just involves any non-in-person communication; the MCs do not need to be literal pen pals.
Sub-tropes: Anonymous Messaging, Tech Communication.
See also Hidden Identity / Secret Identity, Mistaken Identity, Two Person Love Triangle.
Non-Tech Examples: The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary (M/F), P.S. I Like You by Kasie West (M/F), Dear Aaron by Mariana Zapata (M/F), Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson (M/F), Love in the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas (M/F)
Movie Example: Sleepless in Seattle
Also, 84 Charing Cross Road
Tech Communication: The communication is specifically via technology, such as text, emails, or an app. Sometimes, one or both of the MCs are anonymous, or only one of them knows who the other is in real life. This could be due to technology mishaps, switched (or lost) phones, or number exchanges.
See also Two Person Love Triangle.
Examples: Text Wars by Whitney Dineen (M/F), I’ve Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella (M/F), The Accidental Text by Becky Monson (M/F), Crosstalk by Connie Willis (M/F), Tweet Cute by Emma Lord (M/F), Ghosting: A Love Story by Tash Skilton (M/F), Accidental Tryst by Natasha Boyd (M/F), Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli (M/M), Emergency Contact by Mary H.K. Choi (M/F), Teagan Hunter’s Texting series (M/F)
Protector
One of the MCs is a trained professional, who ends up protecting the other. Often, the h/H is a cop of some sort, while the other is in danger from a killer close to them, a serial killer, stalker, or dark past catching up, etc. Alternatively, could involve a celebrity who needs a bodyguard.
Sub-trope: Bodyguard.
See also Celebrity, Danger, Partners in Fighting Crime, Thief / Heist.
Examples: Royally Endowed by Emma Chase (M/F), Daughter of Mystery by Heather Rose Jones (F/F), Mr. Perfect by Linda Howard (M/F), Killing Kelly by Heather Graham (M/F), Murder List by Julie Garwood (M/F), Deadlock by Iris Johansen (M/F), Senseless by Mary Burton (M/F), The Bodyguard by Katherine Center (M/F), Charlie Cochet’s Four Kings Security series (M/M), Damaged Like Us by Krista & Becca Ritchie (M/M), Third Son’s a Charm by Shana Galen (M/F), The Scorpion by Gerri Hill (F/F)
Movie Example: The Bodyguard
Quest
The MCs are on a quest/journey together, with adventure, camaraderie, and eventual triumph. The quest can be for anything, sometimes involving acquiring a mystical artifact, rescuing someone, or clearing someone’s name. Often used in the fantasy / fantasy romance genre.
See also Danger, Deadline, Partners in Fighting Crime.
Examples: We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal (M/F), Song of Blood & Stone by L. Penelope (M/F), Hot Ice by Nora Roberts (M/F), Daughter of the Pirate King duology by Tricia Levenseller (M/F), Warrior of the Wild by Tricia Levenseller (M/F), Donovan series by Elizabeth Lowell (M/F), Night Diver by Elizabeth Lowell (M/F), Behind the Veil by Kathryn Nolan (M/F), The Lady Rogue by Jenn Bennett (M/F), Sweet & Bitter Magic by Adrienne Tooley (F/F)
Movie Example: Tangled
Also, Shrek, Hercules, & Stardust
Rags to Riches
A struggling or down-on-their-luck MC comes into money and/or fame through a surprising windfall (i.e. winning the lottery or television). The other MC helps navigate this new world of wealth & popularity. Alternatively, a down-on-her luck h gets picked out of obscurity by a wealthy H. In a more proactive version, a MC builds their fortune from nothing themselves.
Sub-tropes: Cinderella, Rags to Royalty.
See also Country Inn (Unexpected Inheritance), Fish Out of Water, Riches to Rags (opposite).
Examples: Mating Theory by Skye Warren (M/F), The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (M/F), Sugar Daddy by Lisa Kleypas (M/F), Prince Charming by K. Webster (M/F), Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore (M/F), The Ideal Wife by Mary Balogh (M/F), Her Billionaire Double Date by Jo Grafford (M/F), Burn by Linda Howard (M/F), Lord of the Masquerade by Erica Ridley (M/F), Any Duchess Will Do by Tessa Dare (M/F), Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean (M/F)
Movie Example: Pretty Woman
Reformed Rake
Falling in love causes the H to give up all of his womanizing ways. This is common in Historical Romances due to an old adage from the 18th century that “a reformed rake makes the best husband.” Sometimes, the connection revolves around the h being the one woman immune to his charms, which intrigues the H. Controversial, as this can highlight a double-standard. While the word “rake” tends to point to the Historical Romance genre, this trope can still be used in Contemporary Romances, although the aforementioned H is usually referred to as a “playboy”, “manwhore”, or “player”, rather than a “rake”. This trope could also be called Reformed Playboy/Player. As an inverse, could involve a "player" h.
See also Highlander, Lords & Ladies.
Examples: When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn (M/F), Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean (M/F), The Devil’s Waltz by Anne Stuart (M/F), Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase (M/F), The Ruin of a Rake by Cat Sebastian (M/M), Wicked Intentions by Elizabeth Hoyt (M/F), Wallbanger by Alice Clayton (M/F), The Contract by Melanie Moreland (M/F), Beautiful Player by Christina Lauren (M/F)
Movie Example: The Princess and The Frog
Also, Sleeping With Other People
Reality TV / Competition
At least a large portion of the book revolves around a competition and/or is on a reality TV show set. For a competition, a prince might host a number of women in the palace to compete with marriage as the prize or MCs compete against each other in some sort of contest. On a reality TV show, sometimes the MCs are contestants (baking against each other, for example), or one or both of the MCs work behind the scenes. Both dating shows and cooking competitions tend to be popular in this category.
See also Celebrity, Dating Game, Fake Relationship, Forced Proximity, Matchmaker / Matchmaker Gone Wrong, Quest.
Examples: The Selection by Kiera Cass (M/F), The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (M/F), The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun (M/M), Taste Test by Kelly Fiore Stultz (M/F), Battle Royal by Lucy Parker (M/F), Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly (NB/F), Inherit Midnight by Kate Kae Myers (M/F), Dating Mr. Darcy by Kate O’Keeffe (M/F), Million Dollar Marriage by Katy Evans (M/F), I’ll Be the One by Lyla Lee (M/F queer rep), Royally Matched by Emma Chase (M/F), Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera (F/F), Winning Mr. Wrong by C.W. Farnsworth (M/F)
Want more? "Check out Book Riot's 9 Fun Reality TV Romcom Reads".
Movie Example: Hunger Games
Also, Pitch Perfect, Just Add Romance, & Dance Off
Renovation
One, or both, of the MCs are involved in a renovation, remodeling, or construction project; often, it is the H/h’s own home or office being worked on.
See also Country Inn, Neighbors.
Examples: Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey (M/F), 99% Mine by Sally Thorne (M/F), Maggie Moves On by Lucy Score (M/F), How to Love Your Neighbor by Sophie Sullivan (M/F), Tribute by Nora Roberts (M/F), The Number 94 Project by Cheyenne Blue (F/F), Tools of Engagement by Tessa Bailey (M/F), Zach’s Rebound Girl by Monique DeVere (M/F), On The Square by Brenda Murphy (F/F), Duke Gone Rogue by Christy Carlyle (M/F)
Want more? Check out "11 Romance novels that will help fuel your HGTV addiction" by Romance Rehab.
Movie Example: Flip That Romance
Retelling
The story is a retelling or reimagining of a well-known story, such as a fairytale or literary classic (e.g. Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty & the Beast, Robin Hood, Pride and Prejudice, Romeo & Juliet).
Sub-trope: Fairytale.
See also Beauty & the Beast, Bookish Themes, Cyrano.
Examples: Chanda Hahn’s Daughters of Eville series (M/F), Marissa Meyer’s Lunar Chronicles series (M/F), To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo (M/F), Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev (M/F), Crimson Bound by Rosamund Hodge (M/F), Geekerella by Ashley Poston (M/F), The Austens series by Staci Hart (M/F), Fairest by Cara Malone (F/F), Thorn by Anna Burke (F/F), Kamila Knows Best by Farah Heron (M/F), The Bone Spindle by Leslie Vedder (F/F), Ten Things I Hate About the Duke by Loretta Chase (M/F), Drag Me Up by R.M. Virtues (M/F trans h), Briarley by Aster Glenn Gray (M/M), Peter Darling by Austin Chant (M/M), Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron (F/F)
Movie Example: Bride and Prejudice
Return from the Dead
Someone who the MC believes is dead returns to upset their life in a major way (usually this is a man returning to the h – but not always). This can be the MC’s ex or even the love interest him/herself; whoever it is either faked their own death or his/her death was incorrectly reported through a chain of misunderstandings.
See also Armed Forces / Military, Love Triangle, Revenge.
Examples: One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid (M/F), Finding Zach by Rowan Speedwell (M/M), The Sins of Lord Lockwood by Meredith Duran (M/F), Forgotten Sins by Rebecca Zanetti (M/F), It’s Always Been You by Victoria Dahl (M/F), Garrison’s Creed by Cristin Harber (M/F), Wild Card by Lora Leigh (M/F)
Revenge
The h/H is betrayed by the other MC and/or their family, and is determined to get revenge. Alternatively, the love interest was not involved in the betrayal, but is found along the h/H’s journey to revenge, or the love interest helps the h/H to get their revenge.
See also Bet / Dare / Wager, Blackmail, Enemies to Lovers, Left at the Altar, Partners in Fighting Crime, Protector, Quest.
Examples: Just One Night by Chelsea M. Cameron (F/F), The Prince of Broadway by Joanna Shupe (M/F), The Lost Girls by Sonia Hartl (F/F), No Proper Lady by Isabel Cooper (M/F), Sweet Revenge by Nora Roberts (M/F), Deadlock by Iris Johansen (M/F), Deceptive Innocence by Kyra Davis (M/F), Morganna by Jackie Ivie (M/F), Crier’s War by Nina Varela (F/F), Clique Bait by Ann Valett (M/F)
Movie Example: John Tucker Must Die
Riches to Rags
A wealthy h/H loses money and status overnight, and re-establishes his/her identity and self-worth or learns there is more to life, often with the love interest’s help. Alternatively, a formerly wealthy or famous MC lives life as a commoner, on a tight budget, or some other form of a “rags” lifestyle.
See also Hidden Identity / Secret Identity, Rags to Riches (opposite), Royalty.
Examples: It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey (M/F), Riches to Rags by Casey L. Bond (M/F), Heartbreaker by Linda Howard (M/F), Call It What You Want by Brigid Kemmerer (M/F), Love, Chloe by Alessandra Torre (M/F), From Riches to Rags by Mairsile Leabhair (F/F), Down and Out in Beverly Heels by Kathryn Leigh Scott (M/F)
Movie Example: (Not a movie but clearly the best example) Schitt's Creek
Roommates / Cohabitation
Technically a Sub-trope of Forced Proximity, but popular enough for its own category; also known as Roommates-to-Lovers. Pretty obvious from the name, but the MCs live together, innocently at first, but it develops into more. There is a nuance between this and MCs living together because of a Fake Relationship/ Fake Engagement or one of the Marriage Tropes.
See also Fake Relationship, Forced Proximity, Marriage Tropes, Neighbors.
Examples: The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary (M/F), The Roommate by Rosie Danan, Roommates With Benefits by Nicole Williams, Blurred Lines by Lauren Layne, The Break-Up Bet by Cat Carmine, Off Campus by Amy Jo Cousins (M/M), The Roommate Arrangement by Jae (F/F), Shortcake by Lucy Watson (M/F), An Unseen Attraction by K.J. Charles (M/M), Bollywood and the Beast by Suleikha Snyder (M/F), Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes (M/F), Being Hospitable by Meka James (F/F)
Want more? Check out Book Riot's "Oh, They Were Roommates! A List of Roommate Romances", "9 Roommate Romances Because We Love The Forced Proximity Trope" by Women.com, Romance Rehab's "Top 10 roommates-to-lovers romances", and "15 Unexpected Roommate Romances" by Jeeves Reads Romance.
Movie Example: Someone Like You
Royalty
The MC rules or is in line for the throne of a fictional country, kingdom, or principality (i.e a princess heroine or a prince hero). This is more common in contemporary genres (as opposed to Lords & Ladies in historical romances). Sometimes, the royal h/H is on the run or in some other way fighting their duty. Usually involves themes of duty vs heart.
Sub-trope: Royalty on the Run.
See also Hidden Identity / Secret Identity, Lords & Ladies, Rags to Riches (Rags to Royalty).
Examples: Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston (M/M), The Royal Runaway by Lindsay Emory (M/F), King Consort by J.R. Gray (M/M), How to Find a Princess by Alyssa Cole (F/F), Emma Chase’s Royally series (M/F), Her Royal Highness by Rachel Hawkins (F/F), Twisted Games by Ana Huang (M/F), The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen (M/F), The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri (F/F), The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi (M/F)
Want more? Check out Bustle's "13 Royal Romances With All The Same Feel-Good Vibes As 'The Princess Diaries'" & "17 Best Royal Romance Books That Will Make You Swoon" by Perhaps, Maybe Not.
Movie Example: The Prince and Me
Also, Ella Enchanted & A Christmas Prince
Runaway Bride
The h realizes she’s marrying the wrong man on her wedding day and makes a dash for freedom.
See also Left at the Altar, Wedding Fever.
Examples: Take a Chance On Me by Jennifer Dawson (M/F), The Great Escape by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (M/F), A Duke in Shining Armor by Loretta Chase (M/F), Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score (M/F), Her Hometown Girl by Lorelie Brown (F/F), Runaway Groom by Lauren Layne (M/F)
Movie Example: The Runaway Bride (obvi)
Second Chance
A couple break up, only to reunite years or decades later. There is often a miscommunication that led to the first breakup, which will need to be resolved years later. This can involve estranged couples or lost sweethearts brought together by chance; can resonate with the concept of “the one who got away”. Often, much of the narrative revolves around how/if they have changed.
See also Blast from the Past / Shared Past, Coming of Age (First Love), Holiday (Home for the Holidays), Secret Baby, Soul Mates / Fated.
Examples: Getting Schooled by Emma Chase (M/F), The Understatement of the Year by Sarina Bowen (M/M), Never Been Kissed by Timothy Janovsky (M/M), Wedding Bell Blues by Heather Graham (M/F), Not Quite a Husband by Sherry Thomas (M/F), For You by Kristen Ashley (M/F), You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle (M/F), Count Your Lucky Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur (F/F), The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling (M/F), Say You Still Love Me by K.A. Tucker (M/F), Don’t You Forget About Me by Mhairi McFarlane (M/F), Never Stay Gone by Tal Bauer (M/M), I'm So (Not) Over You by Kosoko Jackson (M/M)
Want more? Check out Totally Bex's list of "Over 60 of the Most Swoon-Worthy Second Chance Romance Books".
Movie Example: Sweet Home Alabama
Alternatively, The Notebook
Secret Baby
Handle with care; can veer towards, or become, problematic.
Keeping his child a secret and out of his life for several years, the h is now confronted with an angry & betrayed H who wants to claim his parental rights. Tbh, this trope is pretty problematic...
See also Blast from the Past / Shared Past, Second Chance, Single Parent, Unexpected Pregnancy.
Examples: Tender Deception by Heather Graham (M/F), Forever My Girl by Heidi McLaughlin (M/F),
A Little Dare by Brenda Jackson (M/F)
Want more? Check out "10 Secret Baby Romance Books That I Highly Recommend" by The Wordy Habitat.
Movie Example: Forever My Girl
Single Parent
One of the MCs is a single mother or father, often facing life after a break-up divorce, or tragedy. There are many variations of this, such as a h fleeing a dark past with her child or a widowed father learning to be both parents.
Sub-trope: Nanny.
See also Grieving Lover / Widow / Widower, Secret Baby, Unexpected Parenthood.
Examples: Forever and a Day by Jill Shalvis (M/F), Unbreakable by Melanie Harlow (M/F), The Falcon and the Foe by A.J. Truman (M/M), At Attention by Annabeth Albert (M/M), Lethal by Sandra Brown (M/F), The Soulmate Equation by Christina Lauren (M/F), Sleeper by Kayley Loring (M/F), Love’s Recipe by Mila Nicks (M/F), Down Too Deep by J. Daniels (M/F)
Movie Example: Jersey Girl
Nanny: The h/H takes a position as a child minder for a single-parent H/h, who is divorced or a widower/widow.
Examples: Temptation by Kris Bryant (F/F), A Nordic King by Karina Halle (M/F), Rafe by Rebekah Weatherspoon (M/F), It Takes Two to Tumble by Cat Sebastian (M/M)
Slow Burn Romance
When the main romance in a story takes a long time to develop and build; the opposite of insta-love.
See also Enemies to Lovers, Fake Relationships, Friends to Lovers, Insta-love (opposite).
Examples: The Ice Swan by J’nell Ciesielski (M/F), Love Lettering by Kate Clayborn (M/F), The Favor by Suzanne Wright (M/F), Damage Control by Jae (F/F), The Hating Game by Sally Thorne (M/F), The Forbidden Wish by Jessica Khoury (M/F), The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren (M/F)
Want more? Check out "42 Best Slow Burn Romance Books That Are Unputdownable" by Perhaps, Maybe Not.
Movie Example: North & South (ok, technically a mini series, but it's lovely, so hush)
Soul Mates / Fated
Destined to be together, but kept apart by other forces or characters, the MCs must overcome multiple obstacles in their path, from deadly hurricanes to curses to timing issues. Can also be related to shape shifters, vampires, or some other paranormal aspect in which couples can be considered “fated mates”.
See also Insta-love, Quest, Second Chance, Time Travel.
Examples: The Princess Bride by William Goldman (M/F), The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater (M/F), The Smoke Thief by Shana Abe (M/F), Kiss of the Royal by Lindsey Duga (M/F), This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar & Max Gladstone (F/F), The Soulmate Equation by Christina Lauren (M/F), The Boss by Abigail Owen (M/F), Felicity Heaton’s Eternal Mates series (M/F), Heart Mate by Robin D. Owens (M/F), Immortals After Dark series by Kresley Cole (M/F), Cardeno C.’s Mates series (M/M), The Moments by Nicole Pyland (F/F)
Want more? Check out "The Best Soulmates Books to Read Right Now" by A Love So True.
Movie Example: The Princess Bride
Alternatively, Serendipity
Sports Themed / Sports Romance
At least one of the MCs is a college or professional athlete, or retired pro-athlete. Often featuring an Athlete, where the H/h plays one of the romance big four – baseball, football, hockey, MMA – or any other sport. Alternatively, the MCs meet competing in sports together.
See also Celebrity, Reality TV / Competition.
Examples: A Favor For A Favor by Helena Hunting (M/F), The Endgame by Riley Hart (M/M), Lori Foster’s Ultimate series (M/F), Tomboy by Avery Flynn (M/F), The Wall of Winnipeg and Me by Mariana Zapata (M/F), Him by Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy (M/M), , Head Over Heels by Hannah Orenstein (M/F)
Want more? Check out Book Riot's "20 Must-Read Sports Romances to Win Your Heart", "100 Best Sports Romance Books of All Time" by Shortform, and Jeeves Reads Romance's "15 Superb Sports Romances".
Movie Example: Just Wright
Also, Love and Basketball
Terminal Situation
One of the MCs falls for a h/H who is terminally ill, this trope is heart-wrenching – prepare for all the tears.
As a huge HEA stan, this category is super not for me; however, it's a trope for a reason, with its own fair share of fans, therefore this is the one exception to my rule of "MCs must end up happy together for it to be considered a romance."
See also Deadline, Forbidden Love, Grieving Lover / Widow / Widower, Soul Mates / Fated.
Examples: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (M/F), They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera (M/M), A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks (M/F), Love Always, Kate by D. Nichole King (M/F), What’s Left of Me by Amanda Maxlyn (M/F)
Movie Example: The Fault in our Stars
Alternatively, A Walk to Remember
Thief / Heist
The H/h is a thief, often of the Robin Hood variety, sometimes caught stealing from the other MC, kicking off their journey. Alternatively, both MCs are thieves and are planning a heist together or competing against each other.
Sub-trope: Highwayman/woman (in Historical Romance).
See also Danger, Hidden Identity / Secret Identity, Quest, Partners in Fighting Crime.
Examples: Tongue In Chic by Christina Dodd (M/F), The Robber Bride by Jerrica Knight-Catania (M/F), Stolen Hearts series by Mallory Crowe (M/F), Must Love Dukes by Elizabeth Michels (M/F), The Queer Principles of Kit Webb by Cat Sebastian (M/M), Baker Thief by Claudie Arseneault (F/F), The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton (M/F), Lord of Night by Erica Ridley (M/F), Flirting With Danger by Suzanne Enoch (M/F)
Movie Example: The Italian Job
Also, How to Steal a Million & The Thomas Crown Affair
Time Travel
The h/H falls in love with someone from the past, future, or both, and must deal with the complications of being from different times.
See also Fish Out of Water, Groundhog Day / Time Loop.
Examples: The Outlander series by Diana (M/F), The Scribe of Siena by Melodie Winawer (M/F), The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger (M/F), One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston (F/F), No Proper Lady by Isabel Cooper (M/F), Some Like It Plaid by Angela Quarles (M/F), Yesterday is History by Kosoko Jackson (M/M), Opposite of Always by Justin A. Reynolds (M/F), One Day You’ll Leave Me by Debra Flores (F/F), Karen Marie Moning's Highlander series (M/F)
Movie Example: About Time
Also, Kate & Leopold
Twins / Identical Twins
One of the MCs is a twin, which plays into the storyline. This often involves the h/H falling for the “wrong” twin. Specifically with identical twins, the plot can involve the twins trading places or confusion due to their identical looks. Sometimes, the trading places is as a part of a romantic ruse or to exact revenge.
See also Best Friend's Sibling / Sibling's Best Friend, Mistaken Identity.
Examples: Mister Wrong by Nicole Williams (M/F), The Wedding Deception by Adrienne Basso (M/F), Something Fabulous by Alexis Hall (M/M), Stealing Her by Rachel Van Dyken (M/F), Counterfeit Boyfriend by Cindi Madsen (M/F), Unwritten Law by Eden Finley (M/M)
Movie Example: She's The Man
Also, The Princess Switch
Two Person Love Triangle
One of the MCs is torn between two potential love interests, not realizing that they are, in fact, the same person. Could involve an online persona vs someone they with whom they are Acquainted in Real Life (sub-trope). The MC could be interested in both or fighting attraction to one because of the other. The commonality is that these "two people" are actually one, leading to the dissolution of the love triangle in the end, when the H or h doesn't have to choose between the two. Conflict usually revolves around one of the MCs figuring out who the other is (putting together the personas/identities). Another sub-trope is the classic Clark Kent/Superman situation, sometimes referred to as Loves My Alter-Ego, where Lois ignores Clark's interest in her because she is taken with Superman, without realizing they're the same person (twists could involve the inverse).
Arguably, the two person love triangle trope is a sub-trope of three other tropes, as it will always be inextricably linked to at least one: Hidden Identity / Secret Identity (i.e. one MC is knowingly deceiving the other with an alter-ego), Mistaken Identity (MCs don't at first realize who they are really talking to), Pen Pals (involving anonymous correspondence separate from the MCs real-life actions).
Examples: My Virtual Prince Charming by Maggie Dallen (M/F), Telling Lies Online by Miranda MacLeod (F/F), Border Lord by Arnette Lamb (M/F), Book Boyfriend by Claire Kingsley, The One I Love to Hate by Amanda Weaver (M/F), Mister Moneybags by Vi Keeland & Penelope Ward (M/F), Alex, Approximately by Jenn Bennett (M/F)
Movie Example: You've Got Mail
Unexpected Parenthood
After a sibling or someone else close to them dies, a MC is now the sole guardian of one or more children.
See also Single Parent, Unexpected Pregnancy.
Examples: Wait for It by Mariana Zapata (M/F), The Nothingness of Ben by Brad Boney (M/M), Life’s Too Short by Abby Jimenez (M/F), Man Down by Kate Meader (M/F), Shameless by Lex Martin (M/F), A Place Called Home by Jo Goodman (M/F), Morning Comes Softly by Debbie Macomber (M/F)
Movie Example: Life As We Know It
Also, Raising Helen
Unexpected Pregnancy
H gets the h pregnant accidentally, often during a fling or one-night stand. Sometimes the h must decide whether or not to tell the H; sometimes, the story revolves around them navigating becoming parents together, often when they hadn’t planned on being a couple.
See also Fling / One Night Stand, Single Parent.
Examples: One Moment Please by Amy Daws (M/F), I Only Have Eyes for You by Bella Andre (M/F), Plan B by Jana Aston (M/F), Knit, Purl, a Baby and a Girl by Hettie Bell (F/F)
Want more? Check out "10 Accidental Pregnancy Romance Books" by The Wordy Habitat.
Movie Example: Knocked Up
Alternatively, Juno
Unrequited Love
One of the MCs has had feelings for the other for a long time, usually keeping it hidden. The object of their affection sees them “just as” something – a friend, their brother/sister’s friend, a classmate, etc. (although, obviously in a romance novel, this will change). Alternatively, could involve moving on from an unrequited love to a new love interest.
See also Best Friend’s Sibling / Sibling’s Best Friend, Blast from the Past / Shared Past, Friends to Lovers, Love Triangle, Slow Burn Romance.
Examples: Hold Me Today by Maria Luis (M/F), All My Life by Prescott Lane (M/F), Private Politics by Emma Barry (M/F), That Kind of Guy by Talia Hibbert (M/F), Earn Your Extra Credit by Meghan Quinn (M/F), How to Marry a Marquess by Stacy Reid (M/F), When a Girl Loves an Earl by Elisa Braden (M/F), The Geek’s Guide to Unrequited Love by Sarvenaz Tash (M/F), Hot Head by Damon Suede (M/M), And Playing the Role of Herself by K.E. Lane (F/F), Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez (M/F), Perfect on Paper by Sophie Gonzales (M/bi F/F), The Love Con by Seressia Glass (M/F)
Movie Example: Nightmare Before Christmas
Vacation
The story takes place while one or both of the MCs are on vacation. They could both be on vacation, or one travels to the place the other lives for their holiday, while the other is living their everyday life.
See also Holiday, Fish Out of Water, Fling / One Night Stand.
Examples: The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren (M/F), Sleeping Arrangements by Madeleine Wickham (M/F), Snow Globe by Georgia Beers (F/F), Earn Your Extra Credit by Meghan Quinn (M/F), The Tourist Attraction by Sarah Morgenthaler (M/F), Kisses and Croissants by Anne-Sophie Jouhanneau (M/F)
Movie Example: Letters to Juliet
Also, Blended & The Holiday
Wedding Fever
Invited to a family or friend’s wedding, the h/H will either a) run into an ex-lover or enemy from their past, b) meet a new love interest, or c) be thrown together with another character from the wedding party. This could also take place at a destination wedding (see also Vacation). Alternatively, can involve the planning of a wedding, e.g. one of the MCs is the wedding planner or some other wedding-related profession like a florist or wedding photographer.
Sub-tropes: Bridesmaid/Groomsman, Destination Wedding, Maid of Honor/Best Man.
See also Left at the Altar, Runaway Bride.
Examples: To Have and To Hold by Lauren Layne (M/F), the Bride Quartet series by Nora Roberts (M/F), Forever a Bridesmaid & Once a Bridesmaid by Courtney Hunt (M/F), Delilah Green Doesn’t Care by Ashley Herring Blake (F/F), Veil of Night by Linda Howard, Call Me Irresistible by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (M/F), The Wedding Trap by Adrienne Bell (M/F), Something Borrowed by Louisa George (M/F), The Date Swap by Lydia Westing (M/F), The Best Men by Sarina Bowen & Lauren Blakely (M/M)
Movie Example: 27 Dresses
Also, Four Weddings and a Funeral, The Wedding Date, Monsoon Wedding, & Plus One
Workplace Romance
The MCs are either coworkers or boss & subordinate who must resist their chemistry in a work setting. Sub-tropes: Rivals or Two Dogs-One Bone (i.e. colleagues up for the same promotion), Boss & Secretary (specifically the subordinate is the secretary or direct personal assistant to the boss, not just a random worker; often a Billionaire CEO Hero & the able, organized assistant heroine who keeps his life together & stands up to him in a way that he’s not used to, but finds he needs – see also Billionaire). Should be differentiated as either “Workplace Romance: Boss” ( Handle with care; can veer towards, or become, problematic) or “Workplace Romance: Coworkers” for the sake of power dynamics.
Examples: The Hating Game by Sally Thorne (M/F), The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon (M/F), Huge Deal by Lauren Layne (M/F), The Allure of Dean Harper by R.S. Grey (M/F), Heartbreak for Hire by Sonia Hartl (M/F), The Brutal Truth by Lee Winter (F/F), Street Smart by Aly Stiles (M/F), Dating the Enemy by Nicole Williams (M/F), Hot Head by Damon Suede (M/M), Legal Affairs by Sawyer Bennett (M/F), Love, Sincerely, Yours by Sara Ney & Meghan Quinn (M/F), Enemies Abroad by R.S. Grey (M/F)
Want more? Check out "Love at the Office: 15 Workplace Romances" by Jeeves Reads Romance and When Tara Met Blog's "20 Workplace Romance Novels You Need To Read".
Movie Example: Set It Up
Also, No Reservations & Laws of Attraction
Favorite & Least Favorite Tropes
*Personally*, I especially love:
Best Friend's Sibling / Sibling's Best Friend
Bet / Dare / Wager
Bookish Themes
Country Inn
Danger
Enemies to Lovers / Hate to Love
Fake Relationship
Forced Proximity
Friends to Lovers
Makeover
Matchmaker / Matchmaker Gone Wrong
Neighbors / Girl Next Door / Boy Next Door
Opposites Attract
Partners in Fighting Crime
Pen Pals
Protector
Quest
Reality TV / Competition
Renovation
Retelling
Roommates / Cohabitation
Slow Burn Romance
Thief / Heist
*Personally*, I tend to avoid:
Age Gap
Armed Forces / Military
Cowboy / Western
Grieving Lover / Widow / Widower
Insta-love
Kidnapped
Love Triangle
Mistress
Rags to Riches
Return from the Dead
Second Chance
Secret Baby
Single Parent
Soul Mates / Fated
Sports Themed / Sports Romance
Terminal Situation
Unexpected Parenthood
Unexpected Pregnancy
AND YOU?
Got a blog? Wanna share? Click the image below to download & fill in your own picks.
TROPE-TASTIC PICKS
28 romance books filled with multiple tropes done well, in no particular order.
01
RED, WHITE & ROYAL BLUE
By Casey McQuiston
The couple: Alex & Henry (M/M)
The tropes:
Some themes:
-
Media, public personas, & reputations
02
TO KILL A KINGDOM
By Alexandra Christo
The couple: Elian & Lira (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Forbidden Love
-
Hidden Identity / Secret Identity
-
Quest
-
Retelling
Some themes:
-
The high sea / swashbuckling
03
THE UNHONEYMOONERS
By Christina Lauren
The couple: Ethan & Olive (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Fake Relationship
-
Twins / Identical Twins
-
Vacation
-
Wedding Fever
Some themes:
-
Luck
04
MY ROGUE, MY RUIN
By Amalie Howard & Angie Morgan
The couple: Archer & Brynn (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Hidden Identity / Secret Identity
-
Neighbors
-
Thief / Heist (Highwayman/woman)
Some themes:
-
A spirited h
05
THE ROYAL RUNAWAY
By Lindsay Emory
The couple: Nick & Thea (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Hidden Identity / Secret Identity
-
Left at the Altar
-
Mistaken Identity
-
Quest
-
Royalty (Royalty on the Run)
Some themes:
-
History & truth
06
BEACH READ
By Emily Henry
The couple: Augustus & January (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Enemies to Lovers
-
Neighbors
-
Opposites Attract (Grumpy vs Sunshine)
Some themes:
-
Grief & trauma
07
SORCERY OF THORNS
By Margaret Rogerson
The couple: Nathaniel & Elisabeth (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Danger
-
Forbidden Love (Sworn Enemies)
-
Quest
Some themes:
-
Centuries-old conspiracy
08
THE HATING GAME
By Sally Thorne
The couple: Josh & Lucy (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Hurt/Comfort or Nursed Back to Health
-
Opposites Attract (Messy vs Uptight, Grumpy vs Sunshine)
-
Slow Burn Romance
-
Workplace: Coworkers (Rivals / Two-Dogs-One-Bone)
Some themes:
-
Sexuality in women
09
THE CHARM OFFENSIVE
By Alison Cochrun
The couple: Dev & Charlie (M/M)
The tropes:
-
Forbidden Love
-
Forced Proximity (Only One Bed)
-
Reality TV / Competition
-
Workplace Romance (producer/show contestant)
Some themes:
-
Mental health & accepting yourself
10
A WEEK TO BE WICKED
By Tessa Dare
The couple: Colin & Minerva (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Fake Relationship
-
Forced Proximity (Road Trip / On the Road, Only One Bed)
-
Hurt/Comfort or Nursed Back to Health (Scarred / Broken)
-
Lords & Ladies
-
Opposites Attract (awkward, bespectacled, bluestocking, spinster scientist meets affable, flirtatious, lovable scoundrel with issues)
-
Reformed Rake
Some themes:
-
Storytelling & humor
11
PERFECT ON PAPER
By Sophie Gonzales
The couple: Brougham & Darcy (M/bi F)
The tropes:
-
Coming of Age
-
Cyrano
-
Enemies to Lovers
-
Hidden Identity / Secret Identity (Agony Aunt)
-
Love Triangle (sort of)
-
Slow Burn Romance
-
Unrequited Love
Some themes:
-
Familial & friend relationships
12
THE BREAK-UP BET
By Cat Carmine
The couple: Connor & Lucy (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Bet / Dare / Wager
-
Best Friend's Sibling / Sibling's Best Friend
-
Blast from the Past / Shared Past
-
Roommates / Cohabitation
Some themes:
-
Food blogging & desserts
13
KISS OF THE ROYAL
By Lindsey Duga
The couple: Zach & Ivy (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Opposites Attract
-
Quest
-
Royalty
-
Soul Mates / Fated
Some themes:
-
Magic & curses
14
FLIRTING WITH DANGER
By Suzanne Enoch
The couple: Richard & Samantha (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Danger
-
Insta-love
-
Thief / Heist
Some themes:
-
Mystery & improbable antics
15
MY FAVORITE HALF-NIGHT STAND
By Christina Lauren
The couple: Reid & Millie (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Friends to Lovers
-
Pen Pals (Tech Communication)
-
Two Person Love Triangle
Some themes:
-
Online dating
16
THE THING ABOUT LOVE
By Julie James
The couple: John & Jessica (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Forced Proximity
-
Partners in Fighting Crime
Some themes:
-
FBI agents
17
KISSING TOLSTOY
By Penny Reid
The couple: Luca & Anna (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Blind Date
-
Bookish Themes
-
Forbidden Love: Taboo Romance (Professor/Student)
Some themes:
-
Morals, values, & beliefs
18
RANSOM
By Julie Garwood
The couple: Brodick & Gillian (M/F) and Ramsey & Bridgid (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Danger
-
Forced Proximity
-
Revenge
Some themes:
19
WHISPERS AT MIDNIGHT
By Karen Robards
The couple: Matt & Carly (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Fling / One Night Stand
-
Opposites Attract (Good Girl vs Bad Boy)
-
Protector
Some themes:
-
Side characters & furry friends
20
IN A HOLIDAZE
By Christina Lauren
The couple: Mae & _____ – read to find out (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Holiday (Christmas)
-
Love Triangle
Some themes:
-
Getting it right
21
TO LOVE AND TO LOATHE
By Martha Waters
The couple: Jeremy & Diana (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Forced Proximity
-
Friends to Lovers
-
Grieving Lover / Widow / Widower (Widow)
-
Lords & Ladies
-
Mistress
Some themes:
-
Sharp-tongued bickering & flirtation
22
TOMBOY
By Avery Flynn
The couple: Zach & Fallon (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Fake Relationship
-
Hurt/Comfort or Nursed Back to Health
-
Sports Themed (Hockey)
Some themes:
-
Femininity - h is a tomboy who doesn't care what people think
23
A ROGUE BY ANY OTHER NAME
By Sarah MacLean
The couple: Bourne & Penelope (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Marriage Tropes: mix of Forced Marriage, Marriage of Honor, & Marriage of Convenience
-
Riches to Rags
-
Revenge
Some themes:
-
Love vs revenge
24
LETHAL
By Sandra Brown
The couple: Lee & Honor (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Forced Proximity
-
Grieving Lover / Widow / Widower
-
Kidnapping
-
Protector
-
Single Parent
Some themes:
-
Trafficking (drugs & people)
25
THE TRUTH ABOUT CADS & DUKES
By Elisa Braden
The couple: Harrison & Jane (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Lords & Ladies
-
Makeover (Ugly Duckling Was Beautiful All Along)
-
Marriage Tropes: Marriage of Honor / Marriage for Protection
Some themes:
-
A heroine who doesn't fit the mold
26
TROUBLEMAKER
By Linda Howard
The couple: Morgan & Bo (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Danger
-
Fish Out of Water
-
Hidden Identity / Secret Identity
-
Roommates / Cohabitation
Some themes:
-
Small town & a great dog
27
CRUEL BEAUTY
By Rosamund Hodge
The couple: Ignifex & Nyx (M/F)
The tropes:
-
Marriage Tropes: Arranged Marriage / Forced Marriage
-
Retelling
-
Revenge
Some themes:
-
Intrigue with mythology influences
28
DOWN COMES THE NIGHT
By Allison Saft
The couple: Hal & Wren (M/bi F)
The tropes:
-
Blackmail
-
Blast from the Past / Shared Past
-
Coming of Age
-
Danger
-
Deadline
-
Enemies to Lovers
-
Forbidden Love (Love Across Battle Lines)
-
Forced Proximity
-
Hurt/Comfort or Nursed Back to Health
-
Hidden Identity / Secret Identity
-
Love Triangle (slight; mostly as past vs future)
-
Partners in Fighting Crime
-
Slow Burn Romance
Some themes:
-
Redemption and the strength of emotion & compassion
*Bonuses* (still on my TBR list)
How to Forget a Duke
by Vivienne Lorret (M/F)
-
Enemies to Lovers
-
Matchmaker / Matchmaking Gone Wrong
-
Opposites Attract
The Number 94 Project
by Cheyenne Blue (F/F)
-
Cowboy / Western
-
Renovation
Note: I tried to cover as many of the ​80 tropes as possible in these picks (ended up with 66/80). The 14 missing are Artificial Intelligence, Beauty & the Beast, Circle of Friends, Guardian/Ward, Marriage Trope: Marriage by Mistake / Accidental Marriage, Rags to Riches, Return from the Dead, Runaway Bride, Second Chance, Secret Baby, Terminal Situation, Time Travel, Unexpected Parenthood, and Unexpected Pregnancy.
​​Want to learn more about romance?
Check out our guide "Romance in Spice: heat levels in romance novels".