Paranormal romance has no shortage of swoon-worthy, heart-racing, edge-of-your-seat moments—but let’s be honest, it’s the tropes that keep us hooked. Whether it’s a brooding immortal, a fated connection, or enemies destined to become lovers, these classic storylines make our hearts race every time.
So, let’s dive into the ultimate Paranormal Romance Trope Showdown! Which one is your favorite?
Forbidden Love – “We Can’t Be Together… But I Want You Anyway”
This is the trope of love against all odds. Maybe they belong to rival supernatural factions, maybe one of them is mortal while the other is eternal, or maybe loving each other could literally bring destruction. The tension, the longing, the secret meetings—chef’s kiss.
📖 Examples: Edward & Bella (Twilight), Claire & Jamie (Outlander—hello, time travel counts as paranormal, right? Plus it is my favorite book series EVER!-thanks Diana Gabaldon)
🔥 Love this trope? Then my book might just be for you!
Fated Mates – “It’s Written in the Stars”
The moment their eyes meet, their souls recognize each other. This is the ultimate soulmate trope—destined lovers bound by fate. But here’s the twist: fate doesn’t always make things easy. Sometimes one (or both) of them resists, leading to delicious slow-burn romance and undeniable chemistry.
📖 Examples: Feyre & Rhysand (A Court of Thorns and Roses), Elena & Raphael (Guild Hunter series)
💫 Do you believe in destiny? Let me know in the comments!
Enemies to Lovers – “I Hate You… But Also, I Want You”
There’s a fine line between love and hate, and these characters walk it like a tightrope. Whether they start as rivals, hunters and prey, or supernatural enemies, the tension is always sizzling. Betrayal, reluctant alliances, and moments of weakness (followed by passionate make-ups) make this one of the most intense tropes.
📖 Examples: Karou & Akiva (Daughter of Smoke and Bone), Bryce & Hunt (Crescent City)
🔥 Love a good fight-turns-kiss moment? Tell me your favorite enemies-to-lovers couple!
The Brooding Immortal – “I’m Dangerous, But I’ll Protect You”
Ah, the timeless appeal of the tortured, immortal being who has seen centuries of war, pain, and loneliness—until they meet you. They warn you to stay away, they insist they’re no good for you… but we all know how that turns out.
📖 Examples: Damon Salvatore (The Vampire Diaries), Wrath (Black Dagger Brotherhood)
💀 Would you fall for a brooding supernatural? Or would you make them do the chasing?
🖤 Which Trope Owns Your Heart?
I want to hear from you! Drop a comment below and tell me which paranormal romance trope is your favorite—or better yet, which ones you love and which ones you’d rather avoid.
Also… want to know which trope plays the biggest role in my upcoming novel? Stay tuned—I’ll be revealing more soon!