How do authors create the 'monster in his eyes' concept in romance novels?

In regular romance novels, the conflict often comes from external sources like family disapproval or social differences. However, in 'monster in his eyes anti hero romance novels', the internal struggle within the anti - hero himself is a major part of the story. His'monster' side might be at war with his feelings for the female lead. This adds a whole new layer of depth to the relationship. Also, the female lead usually has to deal with not only loving the anti - hero but also coming to terms with his darker aspects, which is different from the simple love and courtship in regular romances.

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.

They explore love by creating situations where the human has to overcome their initial fear of the monster. Take 'The Shape of Water' novelization. The mute human female falls in love with the amphibious creature. It's about seeing beyond the exterior and finding a connection at a deeper level.

Authors often create tension through the initial reluctance of the characters. For example, if one character is against the idea of an arranged marriage, there will be conflict. Another way is by introducing external factors like family expectations or cultural differences. This can put pressure on the relationship and create tension.

One way is through the power dynamics. For example, if the male lead is a powerful mob figure and the female lead is an ordinary person, the difference in their status creates immediate tension. He has the power to control her situation, which makes their relationship precarious.

The 'Black Dagger Brotherhood' series might also fit. The male characters are vampire - like warriors. Their dark pasts and the battles they fight, along with their passionate relationships with the female characters, can create a scenario where there is a sense of a'monster' within them. They have a side that is violent and primal, yet they also show deep love and tenderness towards their mates.

Authors often use the alien nature of the pet. For example, the pet might have an unusual physical form like being able to change colors based on emotions. This can lead to interesting interactions with the human character. Also, they might give the alien pet a special power, such as the ability to heal, which then becomes a key factor in the romantic relationship as the human may be in need of that healing.

One common theme is the allure of the dangerous. The male lead being part of the Russian mafia is dangerous, and that danger is somehow attractive to the female lead. Another theme is redemption. Sometimes the 'monster' in the man's eyes can be tamed or redeemed through love.

One popular example could be 'A Court of Thorns and Roses'. It has elements where the male lead can be seen as an anti - hero with a somewhat 'monster' - like quality in his eyes at times. The relationship between the main characters is full of complex emotions and a strong romantic undercurrent.

Authors often use a build - up of events to create an epiphany. They might show a character in a series of challenging or thought - provoking situations until a moment of realization hits. For instance, in 'One Hundred Years of Solitude', the Buendía family's long history of strange events and relationships leads to different characters' epiphanies over time.