The difference lies in the added layer of the mystical in mystical romance novels. Regular romance novels tend to revolve around the emotional and relationship development between two people, perhaps with some external, but usually real - world, challenges. However, mystical romance novels incorporate elements such as magic, mythical creatures, or otherworldly powers. This means that the plot and the relationship between the characters are often influenced by these elements. For instance, in a mystical romance, a love story might be doomed because one character is a mermaid and the other is human, and there are rules in the mermaid world against such relationships. This adds a whole new dimension of complexity and intrigue compared to a regular romance novel.
Daddy romance novels often feature a significant age gap and a more paternal - like dynamic. In regular romance novels, the power balance may be more equal in terms of age and experience. For example, in a daddy romance, the older male may be more likely to be in a position of financial and life - experience dominance.
Philosophical romance novels often have deeper themes. Regular romance novels mainly focus on the relationship between two people, like their attraction and how they overcome obstacles to be together. But philosophical romance novels go beyond that. They might question love itself, like whether it's a biological drive or something more spiritual. For example, in some philosophical romances, characters might debate the concept of true love while falling in love.
Spy romance novels often have more action and adventure compared to regular romance novels. In regular romance, the focus might be mainly on the relationship between the two characters, like how they meet, fall in love, and overcome relationship issues. But in spy romance, there are often dangerous missions, espionage, and secrets. For example, in 'Red Sparrow', the main character is a spy, and her love interest is also involved in the dangerous world of international intrigue. This adds a layer of complexity and danger that you don't usually find in a typical romance novel.
Poetic romance novels often use more elaborate and beautiful language. For example, they might have more metaphors and similes compared to regular romance novels. In a regular romance novel, the language might be more straightforward in describing the relationship. But in a poetic one, like in 'Romeo and Juliet', the language is so rich that it elevates the love story to a more artistic level.
STEM romance novels often incorporate scientific, technological, engineering or mathematical concepts. Regular romance novels usually focus more on emotional and relationship - based plots. For example, in a STEM romance novel, the characters might meet in a research lab or a tech startup, while in a regular one, they could meet at a party or in a small town.
The main difference is the presence of sexual content. Regular romance novels focus more on the emotional and relationship aspects, while romance erotica novels include more explicit sexual descriptions.
Thriller romance novels often have more elements of danger, mystery, and suspense compared to regular romance novels. In regular romance, the focus is mainly on the relationship between the characters, like how they meet, fall in love, and overcome relationship obstacles. But in thriller romance, there could be a murderer on the loose, a secret conspiracy, or a dangerous stalker that adds an extra layer of excitement and fear. For example, in a regular romance, the couple might argue about family differences, while in a thriller romance, they might be running from a serial killer while also dealing with their feelings for each other.
Espionage romance novels often have more action and adventure compared to regular romance novels. In regular romance, the focus might be mainly on the relationship between the two main characters, while in espionage romance, there are usually elements like spy missions, international intrigue, and danger.
Regular romance novels primarily center around the emotional aspects of a relationship, like the development of love, trust, and commitment. Erotic romance novels, on the other hand, add a layer of sexual exploration. They contain more graphic descriptions of sexual attraction and activities. This doesn't mean that the emotional aspect is lacking in erotic romance, but it's just more intertwined with the sexual elements. In regular romance, the physical relationship might be more implied or briefly mentioned, but in erotic romance, it's a more prominent and detailed part of the story.
Criminal romance novels usually have a plot centered around a crime. In regular romance novels, the focus is mainly on the relationship between the two lovers. For example, in a criminal romance, there could be a detective falling in love with a suspect, which is not a common plot in regular romance.