In these novels, the theme of rediscovery is common. As they enter the romantic phase, they rediscover each other in new and exciting ways. There's also the theme of acceptance. They have to accept the shift from a platonic friendship to a romantic relationship, which can be difficult. Sometimes, there are external factors like moving away from the childhood home that acts as a catalyst for the romantic feelings. This upheaval makes them realize how important they are to each other. Also, the theme of unspoken feelings is prevalent. For a long time, they might have hidden their true feelings for each other, and when those feelings come to the surface, it creates a lot of drama and tension in the story.
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.
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.
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.
One common theme is the discovery of new feelings. Childhood friends often see each other in a certain way for years, and then suddenly they realize there are deeper romantic feelings. For example, in 'The Summer I Turned Pretty', Belly has always thought of Conrad as just a friend from childhood, but as she grows older, she discovers new, romantic feelings for him.
One common theme is the slow - burn. Since they start as friends, the transition to lovers doesn't happen overnight. There's often a lot of hesitation and 'will they or won't they' moments. Another theme is the discovery of new aspects of the friend. When the relationship shifts, they start to see each other in a different light, like noticing physical or emotional qualities they overlooked before. And there's also the theme of the fear of ruining the friendship. They worry that if the romantic relationship doesn't work out, they'll lose the precious friendship they had.
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 popular one is 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' by Jenny Han. It beautifully portrays the transition from childhood friendship to a deeper romantic relationship set against the backdrop of beach summers.
One common theme is the sense of familiarity. Since they've known each other for so long, they have a deep understanding of each other's quirks and habits. For example, in 'The Notebook', Noah knew Allie's love for art and nature from their childhood days, and this understanding became part of their deep connection.
One common trope is the 'realization moment'. It's when one of the friends suddenly sees the other in a new, romantic light. Maybe it's during a special event like a wedding or a trip. Another is the 'jealousy factor'. When one friend starts dating someone else, the other realizes their true feelings because of the jealousy they feel. And then there's the 'near - miss kiss'. They get close to kissing but are interrupted, which builds up the sexual tension.
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.
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.