What the Hell Are “Tropes” and Why Do They Matter Anyway?

If you have been reading for a while I am sure you have come across the term “tropes," but what the hell are tropes, why do they matter and what does your favorite trope say about you? Being a dark romance writer, I have come to the realization that some people don't know what dark romance is and may not be familiar with the different romance tropes used in those types of stories. As such, I have made it my responsibility to try to explain what dark romance is in the most basic terms and mention some of the tropes it commonly employs.

Let's talk about dark romance and what makes it different from your average romance. Dark romance centers dark themes and morally questionable characters. It often plays out in difficult, dangerous, or even taboo situations. Many of my books feature male characters who have the ability to put fear in your heart with a look or put you in the ground with their bare hands. Conversely, they'll serve their love interests breakfast in bed. These men would typically be described as thugs or gangsters but most of you know them as book boyfriends. 😁 The fact that there is something scary about them and that they may do things we would not typically allow contribute to the allure of the books.

Now, let's talk about what a trope is. A trope is a writing mechanism that often determines how the plot of a story is structured or what its theme will be, in order to tell said story. For example, a common romance trope, particularly in dark romance, is enemies-to- lovers; two people who seem to hate each other vehemently but end up in one another's pants. This is a favorite for many romance readers. Something about two people who seemingly can't stand each other realizing they are actually in love can be very entertaining, albeit annoying, at times. The enemies-to-lovers trope is just one romance trope, but before we dig into another, let's talk about why they matter. 

Tropes can help define the entire story, and when you know what the trope is, you know what to expect before you read the book. This is not to say that authors don't add twists and turns and their own flair to surprise you, but generally, you know how a trope will play out. Knowing the trope lets you determine if you want to read the book before you even start it, which can be helpful to people who are sensitive about reading certain topics or straight up just don’t want to read them. For example, if I know a book has a love triangle, I usually keep it moving. Some controversial romance tropes are surprise pregnancy, hidden baby, abuse of power, and arranged relationships. Many people stand by the “it's just fiction” stance on some of the more extreme, controversial tropes. While people are entitled to their opinions, there are just some topics I don't broach.

As a dark romance writer, forced proximity is another romance trope I write, this trope can be seen in Demon’s Dream: Unexpected Love Story and The Beauty of This Street Love: A Texas Tale. This trope kind of gives Stockholm Syndrome but makes it sexy (at least in my books). In this trope, the FMC and MMC uncover their feelings for one another because they are forced to be within one another’s space and unwittingly learn about each other. Honestly, being forced to live with someone really gives you a great look into the type of person they are. Seeing how they keep their home, their habits, and general hygiene can help you make the real decision of if you really want to be with a person. Imagine finding the perfect man, he ticks off all the check marks on your list (tall, fine, successful, etc.), but then you find out he lives in a pigsty, showers with no soap, and has no furniture. I think I'll take forced proximity, thank you!

Other common tropes you'll see in dark romance are arranged relationships, secret babies, and forbidden or impossible love. I've used them all in my little twisted productions and I love them all! I'm not sure what that says about me... 🤷🏽‍♀️

Now, what does your favorite trope say about you? Before we get into this, let me just put out a little disclaimer, if you feel attacked, you should, because are you okay? I’m just kidding (but please remember to schedule that appointment). Secret babies? You like surprises! Forced proximity? Maybe you have a fear of being alone. Arranged relationships and other dubious con situations? You long for someone to take control. Friends-to-lovers? Gon' and admit that secret crush you had on your bestie back in the day! I don’t know, maybe I’m wrong (I probably am 😀). After all, these are just my opinions. I would love to hear what your favorite tropes are and what you think your favorite trope says about you. Leave a comment below and as always

Blissful Reading!