Falling for my best friend. I have amnesia. I hate to love you. Here are my top 5 fave tropes.
Even before I was a romance author, I have always been fascinated by tropes. For those of you who may have never heard this word before, a trope is an easily recognizable writing convention that can help a reader to better understand your story and decide if it’s for them.
Back in high school, a friend of mine introduced me to TV Tropes and I was hooked. I loved to think of examples from the books and movies I enjoy, learn about new tropes, and join the conversation with fellow nerds about which tropes were best.
As you might imagine, I’ve developed some strong opinions about which tropes I personally like the most. So on that note, here’s a fun little list of my top 5! I’ve included my favorite movie examples for fun because, DUH, who doesn’t love a good excuse to add a cute gif? Enjoy!
Enemies to Lovers. Two words: THE BANTER. No one knows how to fling insults that double as flirtation quite like the enemies who end up as lovers. I really enjoy reading this trope. I only wish that I knew how to write it a little better. Favorite example: Pride and Prejudice.
Second Chance. I never considered this trope as one that I love until I realized that it makes up, like, half of the stories I write. There’s just something so satisfying about watching lovers get another shot at making it work. It proves that love can conquer all things, even time and space. Favorite example: The Notebook.
Holiday. Yes, I’m that person who is a sucker for Christmas. In fact, I have my first ever Christmas romance coming out this year! Updates on that soon. 😉 I love the magic of the snow, the second chances, the introspection, all of it. Favorite example: It’s a tie! I’ve always loved The Holiday but last year I was a sucker for Hulu’s Happiest Season.
Fairytale Retelling. Even though these books and movies are the same story told a million different ways, I keep coming back for more. Who cares if they are predictable? If the characters are memorable and the love is sweet, I’ll keep on reading or watching. Favorite example: Ever After.
Fake Relationship. This trope frequently crosses over with enemies to lovers, but it ups the ante a little. When the main characters can’t get away from each other, plenty of witty banter and suppressed feelings are sure to follow. So juicy! Favorite example: The Proposal.
Ugh, all this trope-exploring has got me in the mood for a rom-com marathon. Anyone game? I’ll bring the cherry coke. In the meantime, be sure to check out some of my other posts, like this fun one about my latest writing projects.
xoxo
Brittni
