In creating tension for this type of novel, use their personal insecurities. If one character is insecure about their intelligence compared to the other, it can create a lot of tension. During the assignment process, they might be hesitant to share their ideas. And when it comes to the relationship, they could misinterpret the other's actions. For instance, if the more confident character offers help, the insecure one might think they're being mocked. This miscommunication and underlying insecurity can keep the tension high throughout the story.
Well, first off, characters are crucial. You need a likable protagonist, perhaps a student who's a bit of an underdog. And a love interest that has some mystery or charm. A common setting could be the school campus or a study group. Also, the initial 'false start' could be a misunderstanding between the two main characters, like one thinking the other is snobbish when they're just shy.
One way is through miscommunication. For example, a simple misunderstanding about a meeting place can lead to worry and tension. Another is by introducing a rival. If there's someone else interested in one of the main characters, it instantly creates jealousy and tension. Also, external obstacles like family disapproval can add tension. If a character's family doesn't like their partner, it causes stress and conflict within the relationship.
Create conflicts among the characters. Have them face difficult choices and high stakes. Also, introduce time pressure or limited resources to increase the tension.
In triangle romance novels, the competition between the two love interests creates tension. For example, in a love triangle where one character is a good - hearted but poor man and the other is a rich and charming man, the heroine's indecision makes the readers eager to know who she will choose.
You can create tension by setting up deadlines or time limits for the characters. Like, they have to complete a task before a certain time or something bad will happen.
One way to create tension is through character conflicts. When characters have opposing goals or motivations, it keeps readers on the edge of their seats wondering how it'll play out. Also, creating uncertainty about the outcome of events can heighten the tension.
Writers create tension in erotic romance stories through the characters' internal struggles. For instance, if one character has moral or ethical beliefs that conflict with their growing sexual attraction to another. Also, external factors like family or social disapproval can add to the tension.
In rivals to lovers romance novels, the tension is often created in multiple ways. First, there's the basic difference in their personalities or values that put them at odds. This leads to heated debates and arguments. Second, their social or professional standings can be a source of tension. If one is from a higher class or more powerful in the workplace, it adds a layer of complexity. For example, in a historical romance, a poor but headstrong girl and a rich, arrogant nobleman may start as rivals. Their every encounter is filled with power struggles and unspoken attraction that builds the tension until it finally breaks and turns into love.
Trapped romance novels create tension in multiple ways. One is by trapping the characters in a social situation. For instance, if they are from different social classes and are trapped in a society that doesn't approve of their relationship. They have to fight against the norms and prejudices, which creates a great deal of tension. Also, when the characters are trapped by their own past traumas or mistakes in relation to love. They might be afraid to open up to a new relationship but are forced to be in close contact with someone they are attracted to, and this inner conflict creates a palpable tension in the story.
Another way is through the slow development of the relationship. The captor may start off as cold and distant, but as they interact more with the captive, small changes occur. This slow burn while the captive is still in a kidnapped state keeps the reader on edge, wondering when and how the relationship will fully develop into a romantic one.