In betrothed romance novels, the development usually begins with the initial shock or acceptance of the betrothal. The characters may be initially at odds, like in many historical betrothed - based stories. They then start to notice little things about each other. They could be forced into close proximity due to social events related to the betrothal. Through these interactions, they find common interests, and their relationship deepens. For instance, in a regency - era betrothed romance, the couple might attend balls together, which gives them a chance to talk and get to know each other better. As they overcome misunderstandings and external pressures, their love grows. This process can be filled with tension, jealousy, and moments of revelation, all of which make the relationship development interesting for the reader.
Often, in betrothed romance novels, the relationship starts with an obligation or a family - arranged betrothal. Then, the characters start to discover each other's true selves. For example, they might start with small conversations during formal events. As time passes, they might share secrets or have small adventures together, gradually falling in love.
Often, they start with a mutual need. For example, one might need financial support and the other needs a social status boost. Then, as they spend time together, they start to notice little things about each other. They might share common interests or have similar values that they didn't expect. This gradually makes them more attracted to each other.
In 'forced love romance novels', often the relationship starts with one character having some sort of power or influence over the other. For example, in some historical romance novels, a nobleman might force his attention on a lower - class woman. As the story unfolds, the forced - upon character might start to see different sides of the forcing character. They might discover kindness or vulnerability beneath the initial forcefulness. This gradually changes their perception and leads to the development of real feelings.
In forced marriage romance novels, usually, at the start, there is a lot of conflict. For example, in many cases, the characters may dislike each other due to the forced nature of their union. Then, as they are forced to spend time together, they start to notice small things about each other. Like in 'The Hating Game', they work in the same office after a forced work - related union, and they begin to see each other's work ethics and quirks. This gradually builds up an understanding and a strange sort of attraction.
Some arranged marriage romance novels also use the device of self - discovery. The characters, through the relationship, learn more about themselves. In 'Arranged' by Catherine Ferguson, the main character discovers her own strength and what she really wants in life as she navigates the arranged marriage. This self - discovery then further fuels the development of the relationship as she becomes more confident and able to connect with her partner on a deeper level.
In kidnapped romance novels, often the initial encounter of kidnapping creates a sense of forced proximity. This forced closeness makes the characters really get to know each other on a very personal level. For example, they might start by hating each other, but as they share their stories and experiences while in the captivity situation, they begin to understand each other's motives and fears. Then, small acts of kindness or protection within that captive environment can start to kindle the romantic feelings.
Typically, they start with a lot of conflict. For example, they might be rivals at work or have some sort of long - standing feud. Then, something forces them into close proximity, like a shared project or a situation where they have to live together. This proximity leads to an unexpected physical attraction. They start with this 'benefits' part while still being enemies on an emotional level. As time goes on, they gradually start to understand each other better, and the emotional walls start to come down, eventually leading to a deeper, more loving relationship.
Typically, the marriage contract is like a starting point. It forces the characters to be in close proximity. For example, they might have to live together or attend social events as a couple. This leads to them getting to know each other better.
In modern marriage of convenience romance novels, the relationship development usually begins with a practical need. Say, one character is trying to inherit something and needs to be married, and the other agrees for some other gain. At first, they keep their distance emotionally but as they face daily life together, like dealing with family members or work - related issues related to their 'marriage', they start to open up. They may have arguments which actually bring them closer as they understand each other better through resolving conflicts. Eventually, love blossoms as they realize they can't live without each other.
Typically, it starts with some sort of innocent encounter. Maybe they share a moment while the brother is around but not really paying attention. Then there's often a period of secrecy. They don't want the brother to find out at first because they know it could cause problems.
In many of these novels, the proximity factor plays a huge role. Since they are next - door - neighbors, they are constantly in each other's lives. They might see each other in the morning while getting the mail or in the evenings while watering the plants. This constant exposure leads to a deeper understanding of each other's personalities, and from there, love can grow. For instance, in 'The Boy Next Door', the main characters keep running into each other in various mundane situations around their neighborhood, which slowly cements their bond.