Writing Tips
The 90 Most Common Romance Tropes
Sources:
Entangled Publishing website
Mindy Klasky website
- Accidental marriage
- Accidental pregnancy
- Across the tracks
- Alpha heroine
- Amnesia
- Arranged marriage
- Athlete (especially baseball, football, hockey, and MMA)
- Baby on the doorstep
- Bad boy/Bad girl/bachelor/reformed playboy/playgirl
- Bait and switch
- Band of brothers/sisters (for series)
- Belated love epiphany (the risk of losing someone they overlooked)
- Best friend’s sister/brother
- Best friend’s ex
- Bet/dare/wager
- Billionaire/millionaire
- Blackmail
- Bodyguard/protector
- Book lover/writer (secret, undercover, or not)/librarian
- Boss and employee/office romance
- Bounty Hunter
- Boy Next Door/Girl next door/neighbors to lovers
- Celebrity in hiding
- Childhood friends
- Class Divide
- Coming of Age/Family/Social Issues
- Cowboy/rancher
- Coworkers
- Cyrano (when one person woos on behalf of someone else but falls for them instead)
- Disguise/Hidden Identity/Undercover
- Enemies to Lovers
- Fairytale retelling
- Fake engagement
- Fake relationship
- Firefighter
- Fish out of water
- Fling (Summer, casual, holiday, etc.)
- Forbidden love/off limits
- Forced proximity/stuck together/stranded
- Friends to lovers
- Girl/boy squad (team of characters who are friends, family, etc. Usually for a series)
- Guardian and ward
- Heir needed
- In love with the nanny/babysitter/governess
- Jilted bride/lover
- Kidnapped
- Love triangle/square, etc.
- Maid/servant
- Mail-order bride
- Marriage of convenience
- Matchmaker
- May-December or Cougar relationship
- Mistaken identity
- On the Road/Road Trip
- On the Rocks
- One-night stand
- Opposites attract
- Orphan
- Overcoming odds
- Performer (musician, actor, Rockstar, etc.)
- Police officer/military/FBI
- Political Scandal
- Professor/teacher/tutor and parent
- Professor/teacher/tutor and student
- Redemption
- Reformed beast
- Relationship coach (not a professional one)
- Relationship/marriage in trouble
- Return to hometown
- Reunited lovers
- Revenge
- Right Under your Nose
- Royalty (prince, king, sheikh)—usually in disguise, undercover, or secret upon first meeting.
- Runaway bride/groom
- Scars (psychological, physical)
- Second chance
- Secret baby
- Secret or lost heir/secretly wealthy
- Sex Worker
- Siblings best friend
- Sibling’s ex
- Single parent
- Sudden Baby
- Time Travel
- Tortured Hero/Heroine
- Ugly Duckling
- Unrequited Love
- Virgin/inexperienced
- Widow/Widower
- Woman/Man in Peril
Sources:
Entangled Publishing website
Mindy Klasky website
The 20 Master Plots
1. Quest
A character goes on a journey to complete a specific task. Some examples are to gain an object, fight a dragon, or claim their throne. The process changes them in a significant way. Common in fantasy romance.
2. Adventure
This differs to the quest in that the character often has no set purpose to what they are doing. Instead, the character reaches a series of important goals seemingly by chance. Also common in fantasy romance.
3. Pursuit
In its simplest definition, this is a chase story. One character is pursued by at least one other character. Make sure there is lots of action. Romantic suspense novels draw on this master plot a lot.
4. Rescue
At least one character needs to be rescued or saved from a terrible situation, or even from themselves. For instance, when Bella in my book Beautiful is rescued from an attack by Kit. Great for romantic suspense.
5. Escape
A captured character saves themselves by finding a way to escape their situation. This is usually a physical escape but could be mental and emotional as well. Also good for romantic suspense.
6. The Riddle
Again, in its simplest form, this is a mystery plot with a puzzle to be solved. Use this in a mystery romance.
7. Rivalry
This is based around the interactions of at least two characters with opposing attitudes, wants, or desires. Often employed in the enemies-to-lovers romance.
8. The Underdog
A character who, despite overwhelming odds, achieves something important by the end of the book. They have their win. So-called ugly duckling romances will use this master plot.
9. Temptation
A character must decide whether to give into a temptation or not. They must also accept the inevitable consequences if they do/don’t give in. Billionaire, fake fiancée, and harem romances employ this when a character is offered something they want (a job, money, relationship) in exchange for something the other character wants (sex, fake fiancée, status).
10. Metamorphosis
This is about the physical transformation of a character (not to be confused with an inner transformation. See below). A good masterplot for paranormal romances with vampires, werewolves, and shapeshifters.
11. Transformation
Revolves around the inner transformation of a character (not to be confused with a physical metamorphosis. See above). Can be used in inspirational romances.
12. Maturation/Coming-of-Age
A character matures physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually throughout the story. Common in YA romance.
13. Love
Two (or more) characters falling in love. It shouldn’t surprise you that this masterplot forms the basis of any romance novel. When writing in a subgenre, you may want to use at least one more master plot.
14. Forbidden Love
Romeo and Juliet anyone? This is star-crossed lovers who attempt to be together despite society/parents/religion/other trying to keep them apart. Also used in YA romance.
15. Sacrifice
At least one character will need to make a sacrifice for the good of someone or something else. A common aspect to many romance novels.
16. Discovery
The discovery of a secret that impacts a character in some significant way. Mystery romances can also employ this master plot.
17. Wretched Excess
The main character goes on a downward spiral caused by any number of “issues of excess”. Think sex, drugs, rock and roll, alcohol, greed … Not commonly used in romance novels (aside from backstory), but that doesn’t mean you can’t use it as a romance catalyst. Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall is a fantastic example of this one.
18. Vengeance
At least one character attempts to get even with the person or thing they view as having destroyed or altered their lives. This applies to my paranormal romance novel which is aptly named Vengeance of the Witch.
19. Ascension
The way in which a character rises to wealth, power, or fame. Used in billionaire and rockstar/celebrity romance novels.
20. Descension
Opposite of the ascension story in which a character falls from a state of wealth, power, or fame. Like the wretched excess masterplot, this one is not often seen in romance (aside from backstory). Again, that doesn’t mean you can’t use it as a catalyst for a romance because Boyfriend Material draws on this master plot as well.
Source:
Ronald Tobias, 20 Master Plots: and How to Build Them
1. Quest
A character goes on a journey to complete a specific task. Some examples are to gain an object, fight a dragon, or claim their throne. The process changes them in a significant way. Common in fantasy romance.
2. Adventure
This differs to the quest in that the character often has no set purpose to what they are doing. Instead, the character reaches a series of important goals seemingly by chance. Also common in fantasy romance.
3. Pursuit
In its simplest definition, this is a chase story. One character is pursued by at least one other character. Make sure there is lots of action. Romantic suspense novels draw on this master plot a lot.
4. Rescue
At least one character needs to be rescued or saved from a terrible situation, or even from themselves. For instance, when Bella in my book Beautiful is rescued from an attack by Kit. Great for romantic suspense.
5. Escape
A captured character saves themselves by finding a way to escape their situation. This is usually a physical escape but could be mental and emotional as well. Also good for romantic suspense.
6. The Riddle
Again, in its simplest form, this is a mystery plot with a puzzle to be solved. Use this in a mystery romance.
7. Rivalry
This is based around the interactions of at least two characters with opposing attitudes, wants, or desires. Often employed in the enemies-to-lovers romance.
8. The Underdog
A character who, despite overwhelming odds, achieves something important by the end of the book. They have their win. So-called ugly duckling romances will use this master plot.
9. Temptation
A character must decide whether to give into a temptation or not. They must also accept the inevitable consequences if they do/don’t give in. Billionaire, fake fiancée, and harem romances employ this when a character is offered something they want (a job, money, relationship) in exchange for something the other character wants (sex, fake fiancée, status).
10. Metamorphosis
This is about the physical transformation of a character (not to be confused with an inner transformation. See below). A good masterplot for paranormal romances with vampires, werewolves, and shapeshifters.
11. Transformation
Revolves around the inner transformation of a character (not to be confused with a physical metamorphosis. See above). Can be used in inspirational romances.
12. Maturation/Coming-of-Age
A character matures physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually throughout the story. Common in YA romance.
13. Love
Two (or more) characters falling in love. It shouldn’t surprise you that this masterplot forms the basis of any romance novel. When writing in a subgenre, you may want to use at least one more master plot.
14. Forbidden Love
Romeo and Juliet anyone? This is star-crossed lovers who attempt to be together despite society/parents/religion/other trying to keep them apart. Also used in YA romance.
15. Sacrifice
At least one character will need to make a sacrifice for the good of someone or something else. A common aspect to many romance novels.
16. Discovery
The discovery of a secret that impacts a character in some significant way. Mystery romances can also employ this master plot.
17. Wretched Excess
The main character goes on a downward spiral caused by any number of “issues of excess”. Think sex, drugs, rock and roll, alcohol, greed … Not commonly used in romance novels (aside from backstory), but that doesn’t mean you can’t use it as a romance catalyst. Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall is a fantastic example of this one.
18. Vengeance
At least one character attempts to get even with the person or thing they view as having destroyed or altered their lives. This applies to my paranormal romance novel which is aptly named Vengeance of the Witch.
19. Ascension
The way in which a character rises to wealth, power, or fame. Used in billionaire and rockstar/celebrity romance novels.
20. Descension
Opposite of the ascension story in which a character falls from a state of wealth, power, or fame. Like the wretched excess masterplot, this one is not often seen in romance (aside from backstory). Again, that doesn’t mean you can’t use it as a catalyst for a romance because Boyfriend Material draws on this master plot as well.
Source:
Ronald Tobias, 20 Master Plots: and How to Build Them
The 12 Most Common Archetypes
1. The Innocent
Innocents are big dreamers, starry-eyed wishers, and romantics. Can be naïve and gullible. Often have a positive outlook, happy-go-lucky personality that can inspire others, and try to see the good in the world. They tend to look for the silver lining in everything. Lots of virgin, YA, and coming-of-age romances employ this archetype.
2. The Sage
Sages love ideas, information, and wisdom. They are good listeners who are full of knowledge. Can make complicated ideas easy for others to understand. This is the archetype that the story mentor usually fits.
3. The Explorer
Explorers relish the experience of new things. They enjoy traveling to different countries, learning new ideas, and engaging in high-risk adventures. Can find it difficult to settle down to one job, home, or relationship. Many billionaire romances use this archetype.
4. The Rebel
Rebels thrive on change, challenge, reforming, rebellion, going against societal expectations, and doing things differently. They can encourage others to follow them in their acts of rebellion and don’t give up without a fight. Can be draining and dangerous by not following the rules. Motorcycle romances utilize this archetype.
5. The Magician
Magicians are about growth, renewal, and regeneration. They are self-assured, charismatic, and powerful. They view the world differently and can use this to bring transformation to themselves and those around them. Can be literally a magical character as in paranormal and fantasy romances but can also be a spiritual or mentor character.
6. The Hero/Heroine
Do not let the name of this archetype fool you into assuming these are your main love interests in a romance novel. Sometimes it will apply, but other times it will not. To be considered a hero or heroine in this context, your character must be strong, confident, and courageous. They must stand up for others and help the weak. The characters usually have a unique destiny or special mission that they need to complete. Used often in fantasy and paranormal romance.
7. The Lover
Again, do not assume you have a lover archetype simply because you are writing romance. Lovers like their lives to be filled with beauty, sensuality (not necessarily sexuality), passion, emotion, pleasure, union (not necessarily sexual), bliss, and feelings. They try to avoid conflict which means they can find it difficult to stand up and voice their ideas and beliefs. This is a successful archetype in any subgenre of romance.
8. The Jester
Jesters love to be the life of the party. They perform practical jokes, focus on fun, and use humor and tricks to get through life. Often, the latter can be a disguise to cover their own pain ("tears of a clown"). Look at the best friend or a side character in romance novels, that is where you will usually find the jester. Of course, you can also use this archetype as one of your main love interests.
9. The everyman/woman
Everymen/women are genuine, dependable, eager-to-please, and down-to-earth. Most people like these characters. Can have a negative or pessimistic outlook on life but consider themselves to be realists. The girl/guy-next-door romance employs this archetype.
10. The Caregiver
Caregivers are empathetic and compassionate. Their good nature can sometimes be exploited. They need to learn to look after themselves and say no to others’ unreasonable demands. Often seen in medical romances.
11. The Ruler
Rulers, like their name suggests, need to be the leader and have everything the exact way they like it. They think they know what is best for everyone and get frustrated or angry when others don’t agree with them. Can be overbearing, bossy, and arrogant. Billionaire and royal romances draw on this archetype.
12. The Creator
Creators create (obviously), invent, and build. This could relate to their life, family, a business, or something more literal like a building or empire. They have a super-focused drive and vision for their life and their world. Often have an artistic side. Use this in office romances.
Sources:
Conor Neill
Dominic Ensor
Exploring your mind
1. The Innocent
Innocents are big dreamers, starry-eyed wishers, and romantics. Can be naïve and gullible. Often have a positive outlook, happy-go-lucky personality that can inspire others, and try to see the good in the world. They tend to look for the silver lining in everything. Lots of virgin, YA, and coming-of-age romances employ this archetype.
2. The Sage
Sages love ideas, information, and wisdom. They are good listeners who are full of knowledge. Can make complicated ideas easy for others to understand. This is the archetype that the story mentor usually fits.
3. The Explorer
Explorers relish the experience of new things. They enjoy traveling to different countries, learning new ideas, and engaging in high-risk adventures. Can find it difficult to settle down to one job, home, or relationship. Many billionaire romances use this archetype.
4. The Rebel
Rebels thrive on change, challenge, reforming, rebellion, going against societal expectations, and doing things differently. They can encourage others to follow them in their acts of rebellion and don’t give up without a fight. Can be draining and dangerous by not following the rules. Motorcycle romances utilize this archetype.
5. The Magician
Magicians are about growth, renewal, and regeneration. They are self-assured, charismatic, and powerful. They view the world differently and can use this to bring transformation to themselves and those around them. Can be literally a magical character as in paranormal and fantasy romances but can also be a spiritual or mentor character.
6. The Hero/Heroine
Do not let the name of this archetype fool you into assuming these are your main love interests in a romance novel. Sometimes it will apply, but other times it will not. To be considered a hero or heroine in this context, your character must be strong, confident, and courageous. They must stand up for others and help the weak. The characters usually have a unique destiny or special mission that they need to complete. Used often in fantasy and paranormal romance.
7. The Lover
Again, do not assume you have a lover archetype simply because you are writing romance. Lovers like their lives to be filled with beauty, sensuality (not necessarily sexuality), passion, emotion, pleasure, union (not necessarily sexual), bliss, and feelings. They try to avoid conflict which means they can find it difficult to stand up and voice their ideas and beliefs. This is a successful archetype in any subgenre of romance.
8. The Jester
Jesters love to be the life of the party. They perform practical jokes, focus on fun, and use humor and tricks to get through life. Often, the latter can be a disguise to cover their own pain ("tears of a clown"). Look at the best friend or a side character in romance novels, that is where you will usually find the jester. Of course, you can also use this archetype as one of your main love interests.
9. The everyman/woman
Everymen/women are genuine, dependable, eager-to-please, and down-to-earth. Most people like these characters. Can have a negative or pessimistic outlook on life but consider themselves to be realists. The girl/guy-next-door romance employs this archetype.
10. The Caregiver
Caregivers are empathetic and compassionate. Their good nature can sometimes be exploited. They need to learn to look after themselves and say no to others’ unreasonable demands. Often seen in medical romances.
11. The Ruler
Rulers, like their name suggests, need to be the leader and have everything the exact way they like it. They think they know what is best for everyone and get frustrated or angry when others don’t agree with them. Can be overbearing, bossy, and arrogant. Billionaire and royal romances draw on this archetype.
12. The Creator
Creators create (obviously), invent, and build. This could relate to their life, family, a business, or something more literal like a building or empire. They have a super-focused drive and vision for their life and their world. Often have an artistic side. Use this in office romances.
Sources:
Conor Neill
Dominic Ensor
Exploring your mind
The 43 Most Common Filler, Filter, and Crutch Words
1. Very
2. Just
3. Only
4. Really
5. That
6. Slightly
7. Almost
8. Seem/seems/seemed/seemed to
9. Perhaps
10. Maybe
11. Simply
12. Somehow
13. Now
14. Sort of/kind of
15. Anyway
16. A little/a bit
17. A lot
18. Even
19. For a moment
20. All of a sudden/suddenly
21. Pretty
22. Quite
23. And then/then
24. Up/down (e.g. sat down, stood up)
25. Began to/started
26. See/saw
27. Smell
28. Hear/heard
29. Sound
30. Touch/feel/felt
31. Taste
32. Know
33. Experience
34. Be able to
35. Think/thought
36. Wonder
37. Realize
38. Watch/look
39. Decide
40. Nearly
41. Appear/appears/appeared/appears to/appeared to
42. Beginning to
43. So
Sources:
Write Academy
Grammar Check
Anne R. Allen
Write It Sideways
Sandra Gerth
1. Very
2. Just
3. Only
4. Really
5. That
6. Slightly
7. Almost
8. Seem/seems/seemed/seemed to
9. Perhaps
10. Maybe
11. Simply
12. Somehow
13. Now
14. Sort of/kind of
15. Anyway
16. A little/a bit
17. A lot
18. Even
19. For a moment
20. All of a sudden/suddenly
21. Pretty
22. Quite
23. And then/then
24. Up/down (e.g. sat down, stood up)
25. Began to/started
26. See/saw
27. Smell
28. Hear/heard
29. Sound
30. Touch/feel/felt
31. Taste
32. Know
33. Experience
34. Be able to
35. Think/thought
36. Wonder
37. Realize
38. Watch/look
39. Decide
40. Nearly
41. Appear/appears/appeared/appears to/appeared to
42. Beginning to
43. So
Sources:
Write Academy
Grammar Check
Anne R. Allen
Write It Sideways
Sandra Gerth
