In what romance novels do best friends become lovers?

One common theme is the element of surprise. Often, the characters themselves are shocked when they start to feel romantic feelings for their friend. For example, in many novels, they might be in denial at first, thinking it's just a passing phase.

Well, it could be through mutual understanding, support, and realizing that their feelings for each other go beyond friendship. Maybe a life-changing event triggers this transformation.

One great example is 'The Rosie Project' by Graeme Simsion. It tells the story of a genetics professor who sets out on a quest to find a wife but ends up falling for his best friend, Rosie. The characters are endearing and the journey from friendship to love is both funny and heartwarming.

Sometimes it just happens gradually. For instance, my friends Jack and Jill were best friends. They used to go jogging together every morning. Over time, they started holding hands while jogging without really realizing it. Their closeness as friends had slowly turned into a romantic relationship.

'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters is a classic. It's a complex and rich story that involves a relationship between two women that evolves from a more practical arrangement to deep love. It's set in Victorian England which adds an interesting historical backdrop to the love story.

One characteristic is the slow - burn aspect. Since they start as friends, the transition to lovers often takes time, with small moments of realization and growing attraction. For example, in 'Love and Other Words', there are years of shared memories that gradually shift into romantic feelings. Another characteristic is the deep emotional connection. Because they were friends first, they already have a strong bond based on trust, understanding, and shared experiences, like in 'The Hating Game' where the characters know each other so well before love blooms. And often, there's a sense of familiarity and comfort that adds to the charm of the relationship.

One popular 'best friends to lovers' romance novel is 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne. It tells the story of two coworkers who start as rivals but are actually best friends in a way, and then their relationship turns into love. Another is 'Friend Zone' by Abby Jimenez, which beautifully portrays the journey from friendship to love.

Often, it starts with a change in perspective. They might initially see each other as threats in a competition, whether it's for a job, a social position, or something else. But then, something happens. Maybe one of them helps the other out in a difficult situation. In 'A Court of Thorns and Roses', the main characters are from different groups that are at odds. But when they are forced to rely on each other for survival, they start to see each other in a new light. This shift in perception gradually turns their rivalry into love. It's a slow burn that builds as they learn to trust and respect each other more.

Another challenge is adjusting to the new dynamic. As friends, they were used to a certain level of casualness. But as lovers, there are new expectations. For instance, they need to be more sensitive to each other's feelings in a romantic way, which can be difficult when they were so used to the easy - going friendship.

There's the story of Jane and Mark. They were best friends for years, often going to the movies or having dinner together. One day, Mark got sick and Jane took care of him. During that time, they grew closer than ever and their friendship evolved into love. Also, consider the case of Emma and David. They were friends at work. They had a lot in common and always made each other laugh. After a company party where they danced all night, they knew there was something more between them. Their friendship took a romantic turn and they are now happily together.