One great 'enemies to lovers' fantasy novel is 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' by Sarah J. Maas. It has a great build - up of the relationship between Feyre and Rhysand. Another is 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black. The dynamic between Jude and Cardan is full of tension and eventual love. Also, 'Shadow and Bone' by Leigh Bardugo has some elements of this trope as well.
The 'Shadow and Bone' trilogy by Leigh Bardugo has elements of enemies to lovers. Alina and the Darkling have a complex relationship. At first, Alina sees the Darkling as a powerful and somewhat menacing figure. But there's also an attraction between them. The Grishaverse setting, with its magic and different factions, makes their relationship journey even more interesting.
One great enemies to lovers light novel is 'Red, White & Royal Blue'. It tells the story of a prince and the son of the US president who start off on the wrong foot but gradually fall in love. Another is 'The Hating Game', where two co - workers who constantly bicker realize they have deeper feelings for each other. 'Pride and Prejudice' can also be considered in a way, as Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy initially dislike each other due to pride and prejudice respectively, but then come to love one another.
One important method is through dialogue. As they start to talk more, they begin to understand each other's motives and personalities. In some novels, a gradual revelation of the characters' true selves plays a big role. For instance, the 'enemy' might show a vulnerable side that the other character didn't expect. This can break down the barriers between them. Also, the setting can contribute. If they are in a new and unfamiliar place together, it can force them to depend on each other and change their relationship dynamic.
The tension. In these novels, the initial animosity between the characters creates a lot of tension. It's like a slow - burn fuse that keeps readers hooked. For example, in 'Throne of Glass' by Sarah J. Maas, Celaena and Chaol have a rocky start. Their differences in status and goals create that initial tension which is exciting to follow.
A popular one is 'The Mortal Instruments' series by Cassandra Clare. Jace and Clary have a relationship that begins with a lot of misunderstandings and animosity. Another is 'The Hunger Games' to some extent. Katniss and Peeta start off as more rivals in the games but their relationship deepens into love. Also, 'Percy Jackson and the Olympians' series has some moments of this trope between Percy and Annabeth, especially in the early books when they bicker a lot.
We should avoid promoting erotic novels which may contain inappropriate content. However, there are many non - erotic 'enemies to lovers' novels like 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It shows the relationship between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, who initially have misunderstandings and dislike for each other but gradually fall in love.
A good example is 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Bronte. Heathcliff and Catherine have a complex relationship that starts with a sort of enmity. Heathcliff is treated as an outsider by Catherine's family, and their different social standings create tension. However, they share a deep, passionate connection that evolves into a tortured love. Also, 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston features Alex and Henry who are from different worlds (America and Britain) and initially have a sort of rivalrous relationship which then blossoms into a beautiful romance.
Character growth is a key characteristic. The characters start off with negative views of each other. But as the story progresses, they learn to see past their differences. In 'Red, White & Royal Blue', the two main characters grow from being political rivals to lovers, and in the process, they become more understanding and empathetic.
'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' can be considered in this category. Ari and Dante have a complex relationship at first. They don't understand each other but over time, they develop deep feelings for each other. It's a beautifully written novel about friendship evolving into love.