Typically, there is danger. The lovers are often in a situation where their lives are at risk due to the mafia activities. For example, they might be targeted by rival gangs.
One common characteristic is betrayal. In many 'evil love stories', one or both of the characters betray the trust of the other, like in the story of 'Madame Bovary' where Emma Bovary betrays her husband with other men.
A third characteristic is that there is often a cycle of events. The act of vengeance can lead to more consequences which in turn fuel more vengeance or attempts to right the wrongs. In many classic vengeance love stories, the initial wrong or betrayal sets off a chain of events that are hard to stop. The characters are constantly dealing with the push - pull of their love and the need to settle scores, which makes the plot full of twists and turns.
Power dynamics play a big role. One or both of the characters might be in a position of power within the 'gangsta' world, and this affects how their relationship unfolds. For example, a gang leader falling in love with someone might have to balance his power and his feelings. Also, loyalty is a huge characteristic. They have to be loyal to each other in a world where betrayal is common, not just in their relationship but also within the gangsta context they are in.
Well, secrecy is a major theme. In a mafia love story, the characters often have to keep their relationship a secret due to the dangerous nature of the mafia world. Power also plays a role. The power that comes with being in the mafia can either strengthen or destroy the love. For example, a mafia boss might use his power to protect his loved one, but it can also attract enemies. And there's the theme of redemption. Sometimes, love can be the driving force for a character in the mafia to seek redemption from their violent past.
Revenge can be a theme as well. If one of the lovers or their family has been wronged by another mafia group, revenge might be sought. This can put a strain on the relationship as the pursuit of revenge can lead to dangerous situations. And there's always the theme of forbidden love. The mafia has its own rules and code, and falling in love with someone outside the group or against the group's interests is often forbidden, making the love story more intense and passionate.
Power struggles are common. The mafia world is all about power, and this can impact the love story. For example, a character might have to choose between love and rising in the mafia ranks.
One common element is secrecy. The lovers often have to keep their relationship a secret due to the dangerous and illegal nature of the mafia world. Another is loyalty. They might be loyal to each other against the backdrop of a world where loyalty to the mafia group is also highly prized. Danger is also a big part. Their love is constantly threatened by rival gangs, police investigations or internal power struggles within the mafia.
Betrayal is another theme. In a mafia girl love story, someone close to the couple, perhaps within the mafia organization, could betray them for power or money. This can create a lot of drama and conflict in the relationship. Also, secrecy is often involved as the mafia world operates in the shadows, and the lovers may have to keep their relationship a secret which adds to the tension.
One common trope is the forbidden love. Since the mafia world is often filled with danger and secrecy, the lovers usually have to keep their relationship hidden from others. For example, in many stories, the male lead who is part of the mafia may not want his enemies to know about his relationship as it could be used against him.
Well, family is a big theme. In these novels, the mafia family plays a crucial role. Love often has to coexist with family obligations. Secrets are also a common theme. The characters usually have many secrets due to their mafia involvements, and these secrets can either strengthen or threaten their love. And of course, passion. The passion between the lovers in a mafia - ridden world is often intense.