How to write a good enemies to lovers story?

Start by establishing a strong conflict between the characters that makes them seem incompatible. Then, introduce situations that force them to work together and gradually reveal their hidden vulnerabilities and commonalities.

To write such a story, think about what could make them lose trust and respect for each other. It could be a life-changing event or a series of small incidents that accumulate over time. Also, show how their emotions change and how they struggle to deal with the transformation of their relationship.

First, create complex characters. Give the enemies deep-seated reasons for their animosity, like a past betrayal or a clash of values. Then, introduce a catalyst that forces them to interact more. It could be a shared project or a mutual friend in need. As they interact, show the gradual change in their perception of each other. For example, they might start to notice the other's good qualities, like the enemy's kindness towards animals. Slowly build the romantic tension, with stolen glances and small acts of kindness. Finally, have a moment of realization where they both admit their feelings.

In the movie 'The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement', Mia and Nicholas start off as enemies. Mia is a bit clumsy and new to the royal world, and Nicholas is set on inheriting the throne. He sees Mia as an obstacle at first. But as they have to work together on various royal duties, they start to understand each other. Their little arguments and bickering turn into affectionate banter, and in the end, they fall in love.

One great 'enemies to lovers' fantasy novel is 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' by Sarah J. Maas. It has a great build - up of the relationship between Feyre and Rhysand. Another is 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black. The dynamic between Jude and Cardan is full of tension and eventual love. Also, 'Shadow and Bone' by Leigh Bardugo has some elements of this trope as well.

Some excellent 'enemies to lovers' fictions are 'Cruel Prince' by Holly Black. Jude and Cardan are enemies in the faerie world. Jude is a mortal living among the faeries and Cardan is a cruel prince who bullies her. But over time, their relationship changes into something more passionate. 'The Cruel Prince' shows how power dynamics and initial hatred can transform into love. Also, in 'The Vampire Diaries' book series (although it has a TV adaptation too), Elena and Damon start off as enemies. Damon is a vampire who seems menacing to Elena at first, but as the story unfolds, they develop a deep and complex relationship that has elements of love despite their initial enmity.

One great enemies to lovers light novel is 'Red, White & Royal Blue'. It tells the story of a prince and the son of the US president who start off on the wrong foot but gradually fall in love. Another is 'The Hating Game', where two co - workers who constantly bicker realize they have deeper feelings for each other. 'Pride and Prejudice' can also be considered in a way, as Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy initially dislike each other due to pride and prejudice respectively, but then come to love one another.

One common element is initial conflict. There has to be a strong reason for them to be enemies at the start, like different beliefs or goals. For example, in a story about a detective and a thief, their occupations put them at odds. Another element is forced proximity. They often have to be in close situations together, which gives them a chance to see each other's real selves. Also, character growth is important. They both need to change their initial views of each other. The detective may realize the thief has a good reason for stealing, and the thief may see the detective is not just out to get him but also wants justice.

Conflict is a key element. There has to be a reason for them to be enemies, like different goals or misunderstandings. For example, in the story of Romeo and Juliet, their families' feud made them enemies at first. Another element is character growth. They need to change their initial views of each other. Also, shared experiences play a big role. Through going through things together, they start to see the good in each other, just as Harry and Hermione in 'Harry Potter' series had many shared adventures that made them closer friends, and if it was a love story, it could be the basis for enemies to lovers.

Character growth is a key characteristic. The characters start off with negative views of each other. But as the story progresses, they learn to see past their differences. In 'Red, White & Royal Blue', the two main characters grow from being political rivals to lovers, and in the process, they become more understanding and empathetic.