Is There A Love Triangle In 'Onyx And Ivory'?

I just finished 'Onyx and Ivory' last week, and the love dynamics are intense but not your typical triangle. Kate and Corwin have this deep, complicated bond that's more about trust issues than romantic competition. The third wheel isn't another person—it's their duties. Kate's loyalty to the rebellion and Corwin's royal obligations constantly pull them apart, creating tension thicker than any rival suitor could. There's a moment where Rime, Kate's shadow horse, almost feels like the third point of a triangle because of how much he influences her choices. The book cleverly avoids clichés by making external conflicts replace what would normally be jealousy fodder in other YA novels. If you want messy relationships without the usual tropes, this delivers.

'Onyx and Ivory' plays with romantic tension in a way that feels fresh. While there's no traditional love triangle with two people vying for the protagonist's affection, the emotional landscape is far from simple. Kate's past with Corwin is layered with betrayal and class differences, which creates more drama than any new character could. Their connection rebuilds slowly, interrupted by political schemes and life-or-death situations that force them to prioritize survival over romance.

The closest thing to a third point is the magic system itself. Kate's bond with animals, especially Rime, often takes precedence over human relationships. There's a scene where she chooses to heal a wounded drake instead of staying with Corwin during a critical moment, which highlights how her abilities create emotional distance. The novel's strength lies in making magical and societal obstacles replace the overused 'two lovers' trope. For readers tired of predictable romance arcs, this approach feels satisfyingly different.

What surprised me is how the author uses secondary characters. While none form romantic rivals, figures like Bonner or the rebel leader Dal add pressure that tests Kate and Corwin's loyalty to each other. Their love story isn't about choosing between people—it's about choosing between love and duty, which gives the relationship real stakes.

As someone who devours fantasy romances, I appreciate how 'Onyx and Ivory' sidesteps the tired love triangle trope. Kate and Corwin's relationship burns slow because of history, not because some new hottie appears to muddy the waters. The tension comes from whether they can overcome past betrayals, not who will win her heart. Even the secondary characters who could've been set up as rivals—like the charming rogue Bonner—are firmly in friend territory.

The real conflict stems from their opposing worlds. Kate's a commoner with outlaw magic; Corwin's a prince bound by duty. Their attraction feels dangerous because of societal consequences, not jealousy. When they do have moments alone, half the time they're arguing about ethics or strategy rather than whispering sweet nothings. It's refreshing to see a YA fantasy where the central couple's biggest obstacle isn't another love interest but their own principles and the brutal world they live in.