Section 3 of 13
Romance Direction & TropesStory Direction & Premise
Before we go deeper, let's think about what kind of romance this might be — with zero pressure to fit it into a box.Before we go deeper, let's think about what kind of story this might be — with zero pressure to fit it into a box.
What's a trope, anyway?
A trope is just a recognizable pattern readers already know and love — enemies who fall for each other, the fake relationship that turns real, the second chance years later. Readers seek them out because each one promises a certain kind of emotional ride.
A trope is just a recognizable pattern readers already know — the reluctant hero, the locked-room mystery, the quest, the fall from grace. Readers recognize them because each one promises a certain kind of ride.
Here's what matters:
You do not have to build your story around a trope. Tropes can help you understand what readers might expect and where the tension could come from — but forcing your story into a pattern that doesn't fit will hurt it. And your characters may reveal the true dynamic later, after Section 5. Anything you pick here is a planning note, never a rule.
So why even look at the list?
Two reasons. Sometimes seeing a trope named — "oh, that's forced proximity!" — instantly clarifies what you're writing and what scenes readers will crave. And sometimes scanning the list sparks an idea you didn't know you had. If neither happens, skip it with a clear conscience.
Your romance directionYour story direction
In plain words: what's the push and pull you can't wait to write?
When a reader closes this book, what should they feel was earned?
Browse the trope list (completely optional)
Check any that spark something — one, five, or none. These are saved as planning notes for your outline, nothing more.
Nothing matches that search — but you can add your own below.
If what you're writing isn't on the list — or is a twist on something — describe it here.