1. Love triangle
A classic trope for heartbreak and longing, love triangles force a character to choose between two people, often representing different aspects of their life or future.
“The Vampire Diaries” makes us question whether Elena’s heart belongs to Stefan or Damon, and in “One True Loves” by Taylor Jenkins Reid, a woman must decide between her presumed-dead husband and her new fiancé.
“The Vampire Diaries” makes us question whether Elena’s heart belongs to Stefan or Damon, and in “One True Loves” by Taylor Jenkins Reid, a woman must decide between her presumed-dead husband and her new fiancé.
2. Second chance
Second chances remind us that love doesn’t always work out at first and it can endure through adversity and time.
“The Notebook” delivers one of the most emotional second-chance romances as Noah and Allie rediscover their love after years apart. In "Happy Place" by Emily Henry, Harriet and Wyn reunite at a getaway with friends, forcing them to confront their past feelings.
3. Fake relationship
Nothing sparks romantic tension like two people pretending to be in love. Although, the pretending doesn’t last long as the fake romance often leads to real feelings.
In "The Proposal," a Canadian executive convinces her assistant to pose as her fiancé to avoid deportation, while in "The Love Hypothesis" by Ali Hazelwood, a fake romance between two scientists blossoms into true love.
4. Enemies to lovers
This trope starts with animosity between two characters, typically with clashing personalities or goals, before slowly turning into affection for one another.
“Pride and Prejudice” remains the ultimate enemies-to-lovers romance, with Elizabeth and Darcy’s heated misunderstandings turning into admiration. “Bridgerton” has given us multiple rivalries that turn romantic, while “A Rogue of One’s Own” by Evie Dunmore adds historical depth to this fiery dynamic.
5. Friends to lovers
When two people who’ve always been close realize their connection runs deeper, it’s the perfect mix of comfort and excitement.
"New Girl" perfectly illustrates this trope with Jess and Nick's quirky friendship turning into a heartfelt romance. “You Again” by Kate Goldbeck showcases the messy, realistic evolution of friendship into something more.
6. Forbidden love
Whether characters are kept apart by family or society, this trope brings high stakes and intense emotions to romantic stories. Sometimes, knowing something is forbidden makes it that much more tempting.
“West Side Story” takes on the classic “Romeo and Juliet” story with Maria and Tony’s doomed romance. “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston brings the trope into politics, with a secret relationship between a British prince and the son of the U.S. President, proving that love can defy expectations.
7. Opposites attract
When opposites attract, the differences between characters only draws them closer together.
In “Gilmore Girls,” Lorelai and Luke’s contrasting personalities complement each other perfectly, and “Funny Feelings” by Tarah DeWitt pairs an extroverted comedian with her reserved manager in a swoonworthy story about friendship and love.
8. Slow burn
Slow burn romances take their time to develop. The build-up of attraction and eventual happily ever after are a key part of this trope.
In “Abbott Elementary,” Janine and Gregory finally get together after three seasons of undeniable chemistry. Also, Carley Fortune’s “Every Summer After,” follows a childhood friendship that transforms into a romance years later, proving that love is worth the wait.
9. Right person, wrong time
Timing is everything, and sometimes love comes at the worst possible moment. This trope explores the heartache of meeting the right person at the wrong time.
“One Day” follows the intertwined lives of Dexter and Emma, whose love story spans decades of missed opportunities. "Funny You Should Ask" by Elissa Sussman has a similar theme, with a journalist reuniting with a movie star she once interviewed, years after their first meeting.
10. Childhood sweethearts
Growing up together creates a bond like no other. Childhood sweetheart stories capture the nostalgia and lasting affection of a first love.
“Sweet Home Alabama” explores what happens when first love never truly fades, while "Love and Other Words" by Christina Lauren tells a beautifully emotional story of young love that gets a second chance.
