Most arrange marriage romance novels develop the relationship by having the characters slowly open up to one another. They may start with formal conversations but as time passes, they become more vulnerable. In 'An Arranged Marriage' by Katie Fforde, the female lead begins to share her dreams and fears with her husband - to - be, and he does the same. This mutual sharing is a key step in developing a loving relationship in these types of novels.
In these novels, usually, the relationship starts casually. For example, in 'The Unhoneymooners', the two characters start as people who don't really like each other much but are forced into a situation. They decide to make the best of it and have a no - strings - attached physical relationship. As time goes on, they start to notice little things about each other that they like, like how one character always makes coffee in a certain way. These small details make them see each other in a different light, and feelings begin to grow.
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.
Often, they start with a sense of fear and confusion on the human's part when abducted. Then, through shared experiences, like escaping danger together or learning about each other's cultures, they start to bond. For example, in some novels, the alien may show the human parts of their world that are beautiful and fascinating, which draws the human closer.
Often, they start with some sort of initial dislike or misunderstanding. For example, in many novels, the roommates might have different lifestyles or personalities that clash at first.
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 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 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.
Often, they start with the characters being thrown together by circumstances out of their control. For example, in many novels, it could be a family arrangement. At first, there's usually resistance from one or both parties. They might find each other annoying or just not interested in the idea of being with the other. But as they spend more time together, they start to notice little things about each other. Maybe they see the other's kindness or intelligence. Small shared experiences, like a walk in the garden or a dinner together, start to chip away at their initial resistance. And gradually, feelings start to develop, often without them even realizing it at first.
Most of the time, in forced marriage contemporary romance novels, the characters are thrown into a situation against their will. Initially, they might be very cold towards each other. But then, the close proximity that the forced marriage brings makes them notice little things about each other. Maybe one character is really good at cooking and starts making meals for the other. Or they find out they both love a certain type of music. These small revelations and shared moments slowly build up the relationship. Also, there could be external factors like jealous rivals that make them realize their feelings for each other.