A strong emotional connection is key. In 'Beach Read' by Emily Henry, the two main characters share a deep emotional bond that develops over time. They start off as rivals but gradually open up to each other. Also, modern - day issues are often incorporated. 'Get a Life, Chloe Brown' deals with themes like chronic illness and self - discovery while also having a great romance at its core. It shows that recent romantic novels are not just about love but also about the characters' personal growth in the context of modern life.
Recent romantic novels also tend to break traditional romance tropes. 'The Kiss Quotient' features a main character on the autism spectrum, which is a refreshing take on the genre. It shows that love can be found in different ways and by different kinds of people. The writing style in these novels is also important. Vivid descriptions, like in 'The Giver of Stars' where the Kentucky landscape is beautifully depicted, draw readers in and make the romantic journey more immersive.
The best recent romantic novels often have complex characters. For example, in 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo', Evelyn is a multi - faceted character with a rich backstory that greatly influences her romantic relationships. Another characteristic is unique settings. 'The Star - Crossed Sisters of Tuscany' is set in the beautiful backdrop of Tuscany, which adds to the allure of the love stories within.