One characteristic is the emotional tension. For example, in many love triangle novels, the protagonist is constantly torn between two suitors. This creates a lot of internal conflict and keeps the reader engaged as they wonder who the protagonist will ultimately choose.
Often, love triangle novels also involve jealousy. The characters who are vying for the protagonist's love will often be jealous of each other. In 'Romeo and Juliet', although it is mainly a story of star - crossed lovers, there is also a bit of a love triangle - like situation with Paris. Paris' presence adds an element of jealousy from Romeo's side as they both have an interest in Juliet.
Another characteristic is the development of multiple relationships. Each relationship in the love triangle has its own arc. In 'Wuthering Heights', Catherine is in a love triangle with Heathcliff and Edgar. The relationships are complex, with Heathcliff's passionate and wild love for Catherine contrasting with Edgar's more genteel and stable love. This contrast drives the story forward and shows different aspects of love.
Typically, in love triangle thriller novels, there's a sense of mystery. The love triangle itself creates a lot of tension. For example, the characters' motives within the triangle are often unclear. One character might be hiding something that affects the whole triangle dynamic. And there's usually a high - stakes situation, like a crime or a dangerous secret that is related to the triangle.
One characteristic is the exploration of complex emotions. In a lesbian love triangle, there are often intense feelings of love, jealousy, and confusion. For example, in many such novels, a character may be torn between two lovers, leading to internal turmoil.
They often have a clear central relationship. For instance, in 'Charlotte's Web', the relationship between Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider is the main focus. There's no love triangle to distract from this beautiful friendship. This allows the story to be more about loyalty, friendship, and sacrifice.
Complex character development is also common. Each character in the triangle has their own motives, desires and insecurities. In 'Wuthering Heights', Heathcliff's past and his complex personality are intertwined with his love for Catherine. His actions towards Edgar are influenced by his love and jealousy, which makes for a very rich character study.
Another is 'The Hunger Games'. Katniss, Peeta and Gale are in a sort of love triangle. Katniss has a relationship with Peeta during the games for survival and strategic reasons, but she also has a long - standing bond with Gale from her home district. Their relationships are complicated by the harsh and dangerous world they live in.
Love triangle fiction books also tend to explore different aspects of love. It could be passionate love, unrequited love, or a more practical kind of love. This variety adds depth to the story and makes it more relatable to a wider range of readers. They often play with the idea of loyalty, as the characters in the triangle have to decide where their loyalties lie, whether it's with the person they've known longer, the one who offers more security, or the one they feel the most intense attraction to.
Unresolved desires are also common. In a love triangle, not everyone can have what they want. Like in Tristan and Isolde's story, Tristan and Isolde desire to be together but are hindered by Isolde's betrothal to King Mark. This creates a sense of longing that drives the story forward.
Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' can also be seen as having elements of a love triangle. Elizabeth has a relationship with Mr. Darcy, but there is also Mr. Wickham in the picture for a while. Mr. Wickham's false charm and Mr. Darcy's initially aloof but ultimately true love for Elizabeth form a sort of love triangle situation.
One of the best is 'Twilight' by Stephenie Meyer. It features a love triangle between Bella, Edward and Jacob. Bella is attracted to the mysterious vampire Edward, but also has a strong connection with the werewolf Jacob.
Another example is 'Pride and Prejudice' in a way. Elizabeth Bennett has a complex relationship with Mr. Darcy, but there is also Mr. Wickham in the picture at some points, creating a sort of love triangle dynamic in the context of the story.