Romance

 

7. Romance

The romance genre can take place during any time period and may contain a realistic plot line or have magical elements, but the primary element of a romance novel is that there is a central love story throughout the novel. Other characteristics include:

• A hero or main protagonist with whom the other main character falls in love

• Many conflicts throughout the story making it difficult for the characters to be together

• An emotionally satisfying conclusion

Example: Carol is in her late 20s and single. One day, she sees her old high school crush, Jack, walking down the street. After a few minutes of talking, they realize how beneficial it would be for them to pretend to be engaged. Her parents would stop bothering her about settling down, and he could attend his ex-girlfriend's wedding with a fake fiance at his side. Carol soon realizes she has feelings for Jake and has to remind herself that this plan is just an arrangement, but she begins to wonder if it could turn into something real.