The element of surprise. Often, best friends don't initially see each other in a romantic light. So, when those feelings start to change, it's exciting for the readers. In 'Fangirl', Cath didn't expect to fall for Levi in a romantic way at first. This unexpected shift in their relationship adds an extra layer of intrigue and makes the story more captivating.
The emotional depth. Since they are best friends, they've likely supported each other through tough times. In 'The Hating Game', the two characters have that underlying understanding of each other even when they're feuding. When the romance starts to bloom, it's not just about physical attraction but also about the emotional connection that has been building for a long time. It's a deeper and more complex relationship compared to typical romance stories.
The familiarity. In best friend romance novels, the characters already know each other well. There's a history there, like shared secrets, memories of growing up together. For example, in 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before', Lara Jean and her best friend have a past filled with childhood adventures. This existing bond makes the transition to romance seem more natural and believable.
The forbidden aspect. Since it's your brother's best friend, there's an element of 'you can't have this person' which adds a lot of excitement and tension to the story. It makes the relationship seem more dangerous and thrilling.
The familiarity. In best friend to lovers romance novels, the characters already know each other well. They share inside jokes, memories, and a level of comfort that is really appealing. It's like they have a head start in the relationship.
These novels are appealing because they often involve a transformation of sorts. The best friend's little sister might start off as this young, innocent girl in the hero's eyes, but as she grows up, he starts to see her in a new light. This shift in perception and the journey of their relationship evolving from a platonic or brother - like view to a romantic one is really captivating for readers. Also, the conflict that arises from the best friend's potential disapproval or protectiveness adds an extra edge to the story.
They're appealing because they play on the idea of a deep, pre - existing connection. We all know how strong a best - friend bond can be, and adding a romantic element to it makes it even more intense and exciting.
The exploration of the human condition. These novels often show how people with disabilities can still experience deep and meaningful love. It gives readers a different perspective on love and relationships.
The contrast. Dystopian settings are often dark and harsh. Romance provides a glimmer of hope and softness. For example, in 'The Hunger Games', Katniss and Peeta's love gives readers something positive to hold on to in the midst of the brutal games and the oppressive Capitol. It's like a flower growing in a wasteland.
The emotional intensity. Angst in romance novels creates a strong emotional pull. Readers get drawn into the characters' pain, hope, and longing. For example, in 'The Notebook' by Nicholas Sparks, the angst of the lovers being separated by different social classes and family opposition makes the reunion and their love all the more powerful.
The allure of popular taboo romance novels lies in their ability to break boundaries. They offer a sense of the forbidden, which is exciting. Readers are often drawn to the idea of exploring relationships that go against the norm, like in 'Forbidden' where the relationship challenges basic moral and social concepts. It gives a thrill that normal romance novels might not.
The best American romance novels appeal because they offer an escape into a world of emotions. They often have a great deal of emotional depth. Take 'The Time Traveler's Wife' for instance. The unique concept of a man who time - travels involuntarily and his relationship with his wife is explored in a deeply emotional way. The novels also often have a sense of hope. Even when the characters face difficulties in their relationships, there is usually a glimmer of hope that keeps the reader engaged, believing that love will ultimately prevail.
The taboo factor. It's something that's a bit out of the ordinary in relationships. It adds an element of excitement and intrigue. For example, in many such novels, the main character has to navigate the tricky situation of falling for someone who is in a different generation and also has a connection through a friend.