Childhood lovers romance novels are appealing because they often carry a sense of innocence. The love that starts in childhood is pure and untainted by many of the worldly concerns that come later. It gives a feeling of first love, which is something many people cherish and can relate to from their own experiences.
One popular childhood lovers romance novel is 'The Notebook' by Nicholas Sparks. It tells the story of a couple who fall in love as young people and face many challenges throughout their lives. Another is 'A Walk to Remember' also by Sparks, which has a similar theme of young love. And 'Pride and Prejudice' can also be considered in a way, as Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy have a relationship that develops over time starting from their early interactions.
One common theme is the idea of first love. It's usually portrayed as something very pure and intense. Another theme is the shy and awkward interactions between the characters who have a crush on each other. And, of course, there's often the theme of overcoming obstacles to be together, like dealing with school bullies or strict parents.
Well, 'Anne of Green Gables' has some undertones of this. Gilbert and Anne were childhood acquaintances and as they grew up, their relationship developed into a deep and abiding love. Also, 'Second Chance Summer' by Morgan Matson. It's about a girl who returns to her hometown and reconnects with a childhood friend, leading to a beautiful romantic story. And 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' trilogy by Jenny Han is also about a girl and her relationship with two brothers who were her childhood friends, which has a lot of sweet and angsty romantic moments.
One common theme is the deep - rooted familiarity. Since they've known each other for a long time, they have a shared history, like inside jokes and memories. Another is the growth and change. They often grow up and see each other in new lights. For example, a once - scrawny childhood friend might become very attractive as they get older. Also, there's usually some sort of conflict that comes from their long - standing relationship, like family expectations getting in the way of their new - found romantic feelings.
Growth is also a big theme. The characters grow both individually and as a couple. They move from a state of dislike to love, which means changing their attitudes and behaviors. In 'A Court of Thorns and Roses', the main characters' growth is intertwined with the development of their relationship as they go from enemies to lovers.
Well, 'My Girl' is a lovely novel that features a childhood friends - turned - lovers story. The characters grow up together, sharing many experiences, and gradually their friendship blossoms into love. Then there's 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' by Jenny Han. Lara Jean and Peter were sort of childhood friends in a sense, and their relationship evolves into a romantic one throughout the story. And 'Fangirl' by Rainbow Rowell has some aspects of it too, with Cath and Levi having a connection that starts from their early days at college which is somewhat like a childhood - like beginning in that new environment and turns into love.
Often, there's the theme of growth. They grow up together, and as they change over the years, their relationship also evolves. There's also the idea of loyalty. Their long - standing friendship means there's a certain loyalty that can translate into a strong romantic bond. In books like 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship develops as they both grow and their loyalty to their initial impressions slowly changes. And there's usually a moment of realization, where they suddenly see their childhood friend in a new, romantic light.
One great example is 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne. It features two coworkers who were childhood rivals and now have to deal with their growing feelings for each other in a really fun and flirty way.
They're appealing because of the built - in history. The characters already know each other deeply, which adds a layer of authenticity. For example, in 'The Summer I Turned Pretty', Belly has known the boys her whole life, so when feelings change, it's not just a surface - level attraction.