ideas for conflict in a romance novel

Family secrets can be a source of conflict. For example, if one character discovers that their partner's family has a hidden past that could potentially affect their relationship, like a history of crime or a long - held grudge against their own family. Another idea is a difference in life goals. If one wants a big family and a quiet life in the countryside, while the other dreams of a fast - paced life in the city with a high - flying career, it will create a lot of conflict as they try to figure out a future together. Also, interference from friends can be a problem. If a friend has a hidden agenda or is jealous of the relationship, they may try to drive the couple apart by spreading rumors or causing misunderstandings.

One idea could be a difference in social status. For example, one character is from a wealthy family while the other is from a working - class background. This can lead to conflicts like disapproval from family members, or feelings of inadequacy from the character with the lower status. Another conflict could be career - related. If one character has to move far away for a job opportunity, it creates a dilemma between love and career. Also, a past relationship can be a source of conflict. Maybe an ex - partner shows up and tries to rekindle the old flame, causing jealousy and trust issues in the current relationship.

One conflict idea could be differences in social class. For example, a poor artist falling in love with a wealthy heir. Their different upbringings, values related to money, and the expectations of their respective social circles can create a lot of tension. The wealthy heir might be expected to marry within their own class for business or family reasons, while the artist values freedom and creativity over wealth.

One common conflict idea is the class difference. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth Bennet is from a middle - class family while Mr. Darcy is from the upper class. Their different social standings create misunderstandings and obstacles in their relationship. Another is the conflict of personal goals. If one character wants to pursue a career far away and the other wants to stay in their hometown, it can cause a rift. Also, family opposition can be a big conflict. Parents may not approve of the relationship due to various reasons like cultural differences or past family feuds.

Differing views on family roles can be a big source of conflict. In some cultures, the family is highly involved in a person's romantic life, like in arranged marriages. In a relationship where one partner comes from such a culture and the other doesn't, there can be a clash. One may expect family approval and support in a traditional way, while the other values independence in choosing a partner.

Conflict ideas make the plot more interesting. They create tension. For example, when there is a family conflict over a relationship, the couple has to fight against the family's wishes, which adds drama. It also helps in character development. As the characters face conflicts, they grow and change. If there is a conflict of values, they have to reevaluate themselves and their relationship. This makes the characters more relatable and the story more engaging.

One idea could be a power struggle between different magical races. For example, elves who have long been in control of a certain magical forest might face a challenge from a newly emerged race of dwarves who also want to harness the forest's magic. This could lead to battles, political intrigue, and a fight for the loyalty of other races in the fantasy world.

One idea could be a character's internal conflict between following their dreams or fulfilling family expectations. For example, a young artist who wants to study art in Paris but their parents expect them to take over the family business. This creates a strong conflict as the character has to decide between their passion and their sense of family duty.

Person vs. society conflict. For instance, a character in a dystopian society who rebels against the strict laws and rules that suppress individuality. The character might start a small act of resistance like writing subversive graffiti, which then escalates as the authorities try to hunt them down.

A conflict within a character can be very interesting too. A person who has always been taught to be honest but is suddenly faced with a situation where lying could save a loved one from a great harm. The internal struggle between their moral values and the love for their family member is a powerful source of conflict.