This week's Top Ten Tuesday on The Broke and the Bookish is: Top Ten Things I Like/Dislike About Romances In Books. First of all, I'm not big on romance. If it happens in a book that's about something else, and it's well-executed and not too saccharine, okay. Whatever. But I don't read romances, and I cannot stand when it's too heavy-handed. I'm rarely swoony. I don't have "book boyfriends." That said, I'm going to try and break down what it is I tend not to like and see if I can articulate what I do like. Who knows? Maybe I'll come out of this feeling more romance-inclined just in time for Valentine's Day. Okay, okay, stop laughing.
What I Dislike:
- Overly sweet, very predictable romances (along with any mention of "fate," "meant to be," or "soul mates" and the instalove that usually goes hand in hand).
- Love triangles.
- Cheating (especially when it's "justified" because two people are "soulmates" or "made for each other").
- Love blinders (when the couple suddenly ditch their friends or don't care about anything/anyone outside of their relationship).
- Unrealistic overcoming of obstacles, or putting up with ridiculous behavior because the characters are "blinded by love." Also when a character completely changes their personality to fit their relationship. Like that ever works out well.
- The weakling girl character who needs to be "protected" - similarly the manic pixie dream girl stereotype.
- Disrespect or abuse. OF COURSE.
What I Like:
- Humour (and sarcasm).
- Realistic responses to behavior.
- Loyalty, patience, respect and encouraging one another's success.
So there you have it - my perspectives on bookish romance. I like my romance with a healthy side of reality and a good sense of humor. What about you guys? What kind of bookish romance makes you crazy - either in a bad or good way? Share in the comments!
