How To Avoid Clichés In Romance Novel Structure?

Writing romance without clichés requires a mix of creativity and realism. I start by thinking about the relationships in my own life—how they formed, the conflicts, and the small moments that mattered. Real love isn’t always dramatic; sometimes it’s quiet and built over time. I avoid the 'grand gesture' trope because it’s overdone. Instead, I focus on small, meaningful interactions. For instance, in 'Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine,' the romance is subtle and grows from friendship, which feels more authentic.

I also pay attention to side characters. Too often, they exist just to push the main couple together. I give them their own arcs and personalities, which adds depth to the story. Another tip is to explore unconventional conflicts. Not every romance needs a love triangle or a jealous ex. Maybe the conflict is internal, like one character struggling with self-worth or career pressures.

Lastly, I read widely outside the genre. Sci-fi, historical fiction, and even mysteries can inspire fresh ways to frame a love story. For example, 'The Time Traveler’s Wife' blends romance with sci-fi elements, making it stand out. By borrowing techniques from other genres, I keep my writing from feeling stale.

Avoiding clichés in romance is about breaking patterns. I don’t let my characters fall into predefined roles. The 'cold billionaire' or 'manic pixie dream girl' are tired archetypes. Instead, I ask: What makes my characters human? Maybe the love interest is kind but struggles with anxiety, or the protagonist is confident but terrible at cooking. These quirks make them feel real.

I also avoid predictable plot structures. Not every romance needs a third-act breakup. Some relationships grow stronger through shared challenges, like in 'The Flatshare,' where the bond forms through handwritten notes. I love using unconventional formats—epistolary storytelling, dual timelines, or even non-linear narratives—to keep readers engaged.

Dialogue is another area where clichés creep in. I steer clear of overly poetic declarations. Real people don’t speak in perfect metaphors. Instead, I focus on how people actually talk, with interruptions, humor, and awkwardness. For inspiration, I watch indie films or listen to conversations in cafes. Authenticity is key. Finally, I remind myself that love isn’t just about passion. It’s about partnership, growth, and sometimes, mundane moments. That’s where the real magic happens.

I love romance novels, but clichés can make them feel predictable. One way to avoid them is to focus on character depth. Instead of relying on tropes like love at first sight or the bad boy with a heart of gold, I try to create characters with flaws and complexities that feel real. For example, maybe the protagonist isn’t just 'quirky' but has a specific hobby or fear that shapes their decisions. Another trick is to subvert expectations—like having the 'misunderstanding' trope resolved through communication instead of grand gestures. I also pay attention to setting. A unique backdrop, like a niche profession or an unconventional location, can make the story feel fresh. Lastly, I avoid overused dialogue. Phrases like 'I’ve never felt this way before' can be replaced with more authentic expressions of emotion. It’s all about making the story feel grounded and personal, not like a copy of every other book out there.