Find your
favorite trope

Romance tropes are recurring themes, plot devices, and character dynamics commonly found in romance books. Examples include enemies to lovers (characters who start as rivals), fated mates (destined soulmates), and forced proximity (stuck together). Tropes help readers find stories with their favorite scenarios and emotional beats.

Enemies to lovers is consistently one of the most popular romance tropes, featuring characters who start as rivals or adversaries before falling in love. Other highly popular tropes include friends to lovers, fake dating, slow burn, and second chance romance.

Slow burn is a romance trope where the romantic relationship develops gradually over time rather than quickly. The tension builds through longing glances, almost-moments, and emotional connection before the characters finally get together. Readers love the anticipation and satisfying payoff.

Reverse harem (also called 'why choose') is a romance trope where one female protagonist has multiple male love interests—and she doesn't have to choose just one. All the relationships develop simultaneously, often leading to a polyamorous happy ending.

Dark romance features morally gray or villainous heroes, taboo scenarios, and intense dynamics that push boundaries. These stories often include captive situations, possessive heroes, or mafia settings. The 'dark' refers to themes, not necessarily violence—many dark romances have happy endings.

Forced proximity is a trope where characters are stuck together—snowed in, sharing a hotel room, stranded on an island, or assigned as roommates. The close quarters force interaction and accelerate emotional (and physical) tension between characters who might otherwise avoid each other.

Yes! 'Smut books' and 'spicy books' both refer to romance novels with explicit sexual content. These terms are often used interchangeably with 'steamy romance' or 'adult romance.' Heat levels vary—some are moderately spicy while others are extremely explicit.