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.
The novel 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' also has elements of this trope. Ari and Dante meet and initially don't really understand each other. But over time, their connection deepens into a powerful and loving relationship.
Often, these novels also deal with themes of acceptance, not just of their relationship but also of themselves. Since they start as enemies, they have to overcome their own prejudices. In a gay romance context, this can also be related to coming out and dealing with society's views, which adds depth to the story.
One common theme is self - discovery. As they go from being enemies to lovers, they often discover new aspects of themselves. Another is acceptance, both self - acceptance and acceptance from society. For example, in many stories, they have to deal with how others view their relationship. Also, there's the theme of breaking barriers. Whether it's social class differences like in 'Maurice' or cultural differences in some other stories, they break through these barriers to be together.
One popular example is 'Red, White & Royal Blue'. It's about the son of the U.S. president and a British prince who start off on the wrong foot but gradually fall in love. Another is 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda'. Although not strictly 'enemies' in the traditional sense at first, there's some initial conflict that evolves into a beautiful love story. And 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' also has elements of two boys who have differences at the start and then develop deep feelings for each other.
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.
One great example is 'Attachments' by Rainbow Rowell. It has an online aspect where the main characters start as sort of enemies in a work - related online environment. Lincoln, the IT guy, has to monitor the employees' emails for inappropriate use. Beth and Jennifer are two employees who often send emails that Lincoln reads. At first, he seems like an enemy invading their privacy, but as he gets to know them through their emails, he falls in love with Beth. It's a really sweet story that shows how an online connection can transform from something negative to a romantic relationship.
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.
Some excellent 'enemies to lovers' fictions are 'Cruel Prince' by Holly Black. Jude and Cardan are enemies in the faerie world. Jude is a mortal living among the faeries and Cardan is a cruel prince who bullies her. But over time, their relationship changes into something more passionate. 'The Cruel Prince' shows how power dynamics and initial hatred can transform into love. Also, in 'The Vampire Diaries' book series (although it has a TV adaptation too), Elena and Damon start off as enemies. Damon is a vampire who seems menacing to Elena at first, but as the story unfolds, they develop a deep and complex relationship that has elements of love despite their initial enmity.