The hate-to-love storyline in romance is popular, but there are subtle variations in the trope. It can range from enemies to rivals to clashing personalities.
In the enemies-to-lovers romance, the two main characters are out to destroy each other. Think revenge romance or the epic love stories when they are supposed to kill each other.
A classic example is Bond of Hatred by Lynne Graham. Sarah blames Alex for the death of her sister and she will make him pay, starting with a marriage of convenience.
Another version of this trope is the rivals to lovers. The two main characters are after the same goal or prize. You’ll often see this in workplace romances or if there’s a bet/wager between the two.
A good example of this is Must Love Coffee by Sarah Mayberry. Daniel and Cassidy are competing for the same prize in their favorite coffeeshop. The lighthearted rivalry is distraction for both of them as they overcome setbacks and loss in their lives.
Then there’s the adversaries to lovers. They aren’t after the same prize, but they are on opposing sides of a situation.
Want to find a sexy contemporary romance with this trope? Get Anything But Sweet by Candis Terry. Charlotte is assigned to give a small-town a much needed makeover, but Reno wants to keep the old traditions alive.
And, finally there’s the hostility to love. The two main characters have a personality clash. You’ll often find this is the good girl / bad boy pairings. The couple enjoys antagonizing each other.
If you’re looking for a romance with this trope, try Carpool by Noelle Adams. Jennifer must share a long commute with the man who has annoyed her for years.
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This post was first published August 25, 2021. Last updated: March 3, 2022.