Five Tropes I Love in Fantasy Romance
(and How I Use Them in Embers of Fate)
As both a reader and writer of fantasy romance, there are certain tropes that always tug at my heartstrings—those delicious, dramatic moments that make you hold your breath and turn the page a little faster. When I sat down to write Embers of Fate (releasing February 14, 2025!), I knew I wanted to explore some of my favorite tropes. From forbidden love to hidden magic, this story is packed with the kind of romantic tension and emotional depth that I can’t resist.
Today, I’m sharing five of my all-time favorite fantasy romance tropes and how I’ve woven them into Gwen’s journey in Embers of Fate.
1. Forbidden Love
There’s something utterly heartbreaking and intoxicating about two characters who want to be together but can’t. Whether it’s due to societal expectations, personal duty, or dangerous consequences, forbidden love always raises the stakes and makes every stolen glance or secret touch feel electric. It’s the “will they/won’t they” that gets me every time.
In Embers of Fate, Gwen is a princess, heir to the throne, while Tyreal is her loyal guard. Their relationship is strictly forbidden—royalty on the continent of Valine are legally obligated to marry from one of the other royal families on the continent. Yet Gwen and Tyreal simply cannot stay away from each other. Their whole lives have been intertwined since they were children.
2. Touch Her and Die
There’s something about the overprotective hero that really makes my heart swoon. Whether it’s a silent warning or a full-on, sword-drawn defense, the idea of “touch her and die” will always have me kicking my feet and giggling. The hero doesn’t just care—he’s willing to burn everything to the ground to keep his love safe.
Tyreal is fiercely protective of Gwen. While he’s bound by duty to guard her, his obsession with her safety goes far beyond mere orders. No one—and I mean no one—will lay a hand on her without facing the consequences. This possessiveness doesn’t just come from duty; it’s personal, and it grows more intense the deeper their bond becomes. Even if he can never claim her, he’ll make sure she’s safe… no matter the cost.
3. Found Family
Fantasy worlds are full of loners, outcasts, and people who don’t quite fit in, which is why the found family trope is one of my favorites. It’s about creating bonds with those who choose you, rather than just the family you’re born into. In Embers of Fate, Gwen is surrounded by people who stand by her, not because of her title, but because they see her for who she truly is.
While Gwen’s close with her family, it’s her inner circle—a fiercely loyal group of friends and allies—who truly know her heart. This support system becomes essential as she faces threats, both to her throne and her heart.
4. Strong Female Friendship
Romance is at the heart of Embers of Fate, but I also wanted to highlight the importance of strong, empowering female friendships. There’s something magical about women supporting women, especially in a genre that often focuses on the romantic connection. Gwen’s journey wouldn’t be the same without the fierce bonds she shares with her best friend.
In this story, Gwen’s closest confidante is Anya, a fellow princess from another country. Their friendship is based on trust, shared secrets, and mutual understanding. These moments of laughter, sass, and emotional connection bring depth to the world of Embers of Fate and remind us that while romantic love is powerful, friendship can be just as magical.
5. Hidden Magic
The mystery of hidden magic is one of my favorite fantasy tropes because it adds layers to both the characters and the world. There’s always something more lurking beneath the surface, whether it’s a secret power, a lost ability, or a magic that hasn’t been fully realized.
In Embers of Fate, Gwen harbors a magic few even know exists. As danger closes in and the stakes rise, this hidden power becomes more crucial to her survival—and to the fate of the realm. But magic, as always, comes with a price. How can Gwen protect the people and country she loves, when her secret could change everything?
Why These Tropes?
These tropes bring the tension, heart, and magic to a story that keeps me coming back to fantasy romance. In Embers of Fate, I think I’ve woven together the thrill of forbidden love, the fierce loyalty of found family, and the magic of a bond that transcends duty and honor. Gwen’s journey is one of courage, heartache, and discovery, as she tries to protect her kingdom—and her heart.
If you love protective heroes, secret magic, and emotional journeys full of romance, I think Embers of Fate will be right up your alley. I can’t wait for you to experience Gwen and Tyreal’s story when it releases on February 14, 2025. In the meantime, let me know in the comments which of these tropes makes your heart race the most!
Stay Enchanted,
Dani