: Use tropes like "enemies to lovers," "fake dating," or "second chances" to force characters into proximity and provide a framework for their development.

To build a narrative that resonates, consider these key structural features:

Creating Romantic Tension in Your Novel - Between the Lines Editorial

: For many readers, a "Happy Ever After" or "Happy For Now" is a primary expectation that distinguishes the romance genre from general drama.

A compelling feature for centers on the push-and-pull between internal character growth and external obstacles.

: Successful stories rely on "sparks" or initial attraction, followed by a deliberate buildup of emotional tension through banter, flirting, and shared vulnerability.