Well, a major theme is the power dynamics. The governess is in a somewhat powerless position in the household, yet in the romance, she may gain power through love or the respect of her lover. Another is the theme of family. The governess is often involved with the family she works for in a romantic way, and this can bring up themes of loyalty and betrayal within the family. Also, the theme of transformation is common. The governess may transform from a meek, overlooked figure to a strong, confident woman in love, and this transformation is central to many of these historical romance novels.
Common themes include the idea of forbidden love. Since the governess has a certain position in the household, falling in love with someone in the family, like the master or a son, is often seen as improper. Also, self - discovery is a theme. Through their experiences as a governess and in love, the female characters often learn more about themselves. Moreover, the theme of social mobility through love sometimes appears. If a governess marries into a higher class, it changes her social status, and this is explored in many of these novels.
One common theme is the class divide. The governess, usually from a lower - class background, falls in love with someone from a higher class, like the master of the house. This creates a lot of tension and drama as they navigate their different social standings.
One popular governess historical romance novel is 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte. It tells the story of a young governess, Jane, and her complex relationship with Mr. Rochester. Another is 'The Governess' by Julie Klassen, which is full of mystery and romance in a historical setting. There's also 'The Secret of the Governess' by Victoria Alexander, which has an engaging plot with a governess finding love in unexpected circumstances.
Another theme is the power of education. The governess, being an educator, imparts knowledge and values to the children. For example, she might teach them about kindness, honesty, and the importance of hard work. This is often shown through the children's transformation over the course of the story. Moreover, family and class differences can also be a theme. The governess usually comes from a different social class than the family she works for, and this can lead to various interactions and conflicts that are explored in the story.
Love across time or different historical periods is a common theme. For example, in 'Outlander', the main characters are from different eras but fall in love. Another theme is the struggle between the natural and supernatural worlds. In many of these novels, the characters have to deal with the powers of the supernatural while also trying to have a normal relationship. Magic and mystery are also often present. It adds an element of intrigue to the story and the relationship between the characters.
One common theme is the power struggle. When there is an abduction in the story, there is often a fight for control between the abductor and the abducted, which then develops into a romantic relationship. For example, in some novels, the male character abducts the female, but as they interact more, their relationship changes.
One common theme is grief. The characters often have to deal with the intense sorrow that comes with losing a pregnancy. This can change their relationships, both with their partners and with others around them.
One common theme is the idea of renewal. Christmas is often seen as a time of new beginnings, and in historical romance novels, the characters might find new love or a new direction in their lives during this festive season.
Identity is a big theme. Characters in queer historical romance novels are constantly exploring who they are in relation to their sexuality and gender. Social norms also play a huge part. They are often in conflict with the love and relationships of the queer characters. Take a novel set in the Middle Ages, the characters may have to go against strict religious and social rules. And of course, there's the theme of love itself. The power of love that can overcome these obstacles is a recurring idea in these novels.
One common theme is the struggle between immortality and mortality. In these novels, vampires are often centuries - old, and they interact with mortal humans. This creates a tension as the mortal characters age while the vampires remain unchanged. For example, in 'Interview with the Vampire', Louis is constantly grappling with his eternal existence compared to the brief lives of those he loves.
Love across social classes is a common theme. For example, a noble falling in love with a commoner.