What are the common themes in dark historical romance novels?

A common theme is the power dynamic. There's often an imbalance of power due to the abduction situation which then gradually shifts as the relationship progresses. For example, in many of these novels, the abductor may initially hold all the power, but as the story unfolds, the kidnapped character starts to gain some sort of influence.

Obsession also features frequently. The lovers in these novels can be extremely obsessed with one another. Their love is not just a gentle feeling but an all - consuming, sometimes destructive force that drives the plot and the characters' actions. This can be seen in many works where the characters will go to great lengths for their love, even if it means breaking rules or causing harm.

A common theme is the sense of freedom. Bikers are often associated with a free - spirited lifestyle, and this is explored in relation to the romance. For example, in many novels, the hero or heroine might find a new kind of freedom through their relationship.

A sense of redemption can also be a theme. Sometimes, the male lead who is involved in the mafia may seek redemption through his relationship with the female lead. He might want to change his ways or make amends for his past actions. This adds an emotional depth to the story as the couple tries to overcome the dark past and build a future together.

Power and control are common themes. The billionaire characters often have a lot of power in their business and personal lives, and this can play out in their romantic relationships in both positive and negative ways. Another theme is the past haunting the present. Their dark pasts, which might include things like family issues or past traumas, often influence their ability to love and be loved.

Power exchange is a very common theme. In these novels, one character typically has more power over the other in the BDSM relationship, which creates a dynamic and often intense story. Another theme is psychological exploration. The characters often have to face their inner demons and insecurities as they engage in BDSM activities.

One common theme is the struggle against societal prejudice. In these novels, the interracial couple often has to face the disapproval of their families or the community at large, which adds a dark and challenging element to their love story.

The theme of secrecy is quite prevalent. The MC has its own set of rules and secrets, and when a romance blossoms, these secrets can either bring the couple closer or tear them apart. Another theme is the idea of the outsider. Often, the female lead is an outsider to the MC world, and her entry into this world and relationship with an MC member is a central part of the story. Also, the theme of family, not just in the traditional sense but also the MC as a family, plays a role in the relationships and the overall story.

Another theme is the sense of elitism and exclusivity. The settings are usually in prestigious academic institutions where only a select few are part of. This creates a sense of mystery and allure. In 'If We Were Villains', the group of Shakespearean actors has a sense of being an elite within the academic drama department, and this affects their relationships.

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.