According to experts at Romance Writers of America (RWA) , the two non-negotiable features of any romance are a and an emotionally satisfying, optimistic ending .
Creating Romantic Tension in Your Novel - Between the Lines Editorial According to experts at Romance Writers of America
To build a narrative that resonates, consider these key structural features: " "fake dating
: Characters should have personal "wounds" or fears—often called "strengths and weaknesses"—that make falling in love feel risky or difficult. According to experts at Romance Writers of America
: Modern studies in Psychology Today suggest that successful romantic arcs should mirror the real-world pillars of responsiveness, connection, and stability to feel authentic to the audience.
: Use tropes like "enemies to lovers," "fake dating," or "second chances" to force characters into proximity and provide a framework for their development.