Common themes include longing and unfulfilled desires. The mistress often longs for a more permanent or recognized relationship with the man she loves. Class differences play a big role too. The gap between the upper - class man and the mistress from a different social class creates tension and drama. Additionally, there's the theme of self - discovery. Through her relationship as a mistress, the female character may learn more about herself, her desires, and her place in the world. For example, she may realize she has been oppressed by society's norms and rebels through her relationship.
In mistress historical romance novels, passion is a major theme. The relationships are often driven by intense emotions rather than social propriety. Jealousy is also common. Whether it's the jealousy of the legitimate wife or the mistress herself towards other potential rivals. And there's the theme of sacrifice. The mistress may have to sacrifice her reputation, her future, or even her life in some cases for the sake of the relationship. Also, the theme of secrecy is prevalent as these relationships are not supposed to be out in the open in historical societies.
One common theme is forbidden love. Since the relationship of a mistress is often outside the bounds of traditional marriage in historical settings, the lovers face many obstacles. Another theme is power dynamics. Often, the man may be in a position of power, like a noble or a wealthy merchant, and the mistress may be in a more vulnerable position. Social status is also a theme. The mistress usually has a different social standing compared to the man, which adds to the complexity of the relationship.
Well, in these novels, a major theme is the conflict between passion and responsibility. The hero may feel passion for the mistress but also has a sense of responsibility towards his existing relationship or family. Another theme is the transformation of the characters. The mistress, upon becoming pregnant, may transform from a carefree individual to someone more mature and concerned about the future. Also, the theme of redemption often plays a part, where characters try to make up for their past mistakes in the context of this complex relationship.
One common theme is redemption. The mistress often has to redeem herself in the eyes of society or the hero's family to become a wife. For example, she might have to prove that she truly loves the hero and is not just after his money or status.
Love across time or different historical periods is a common theme. For example, in 'Outlander', the main characters are from different eras but fall in love. Another theme is the struggle between the natural and supernatural worlds. In many of these novels, the characters have to deal with the powers of the supernatural while also trying to have a normal relationship. Magic and mystery are also often present. It adds an element of intrigue to the story and the relationship between the characters.
One common theme is the power struggle. When there is an abduction in the story, there is often a fight for control between the abductor and the abducted, which then develops into a romantic relationship. For example, in some novels, the male character abducts the female, but as they interact more, their relationship changes.
One common theme is grief. The characters often have to deal with the intense sorrow that comes with losing a pregnancy. This can change their relationships, both with their partners and with others around them.
One common theme is the idea of renewal. Christmas is often seen as a time of new beginnings, and in historical romance novels, the characters might find new love or a new direction in their lives during this festive season.
Identity is a big theme. Characters in queer historical romance novels are constantly exploring who they are in relation to their sexuality and gender. Social norms also play a huge part. They are often in conflict with the love and relationships of the queer characters. Take a novel set in the Middle Ages, the characters may have to go against strict religious and social rules. And of course, there's the theme of love itself. The power of love that can overcome these obstacles is a recurring idea in these novels.
One common theme is the struggle between immortality and mortality. In these novels, vampires are often centuries - old, and they interact with mortal humans. This creates a tension as the mortal characters age while the vampires remain unchanged. For example, in 'Interview with the Vampire', Louis is constantly grappling with his eternal existence compared to the brief lives of those he loves.
Love across social classes is a common theme. For example, a noble falling in love with a commoner.
Another theme is sacrifice. The characters may have to sacrifice their own desires or status for the sake of their loved ones or for the greater good. In 'Sungkyunkwan Scandal', the female lead has to sacrifice her identity as a woman to pursue her studies and in the process, her relationships are put to the test.