The transformation aspect is also really appealing. Watching two people who were once just friends realize they have deeper feelings is really interesting. In 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before', Lara Jean and her childhood friend go through this process. It's like seeing a new side of a relationship you already knew, and it gives hope that love can be found in unexpected places, especially with someone you've known for a long time.
It's the sense of familiarity. Readers like the idea that the two people have a shared past. In 'Anna and the French Kiss', Anna's connection with her childhood friend is based on years of knowing each other. This makes the romantic development feel more natural and real.
They're appealing because of the built - in history. The characters already know each other deeply, which adds a layer of authenticity. For example, in 'The Summer I Turned Pretty', Belly has known the boys her whole life, so when feelings change, it's not just a surface - level attraction.
These novels are appealing because they often have a sense of comfort. Since the characters are friends first, there's a level of trust. In 'Love and Other Words', the main characters' long - standing friendship made the transition to love feel more believable and it was easy to root for them. Also, the anticipation of that shift from friendship to love is exciting for readers.
Childhood lovers romance novels are appealing because they often carry a sense of innocence. The love that starts in childhood is pure and untainted by many of the worldly concerns that come later. It gives a feeling of first love, which is something many people cherish and can relate to from their own experiences.
They're appealing because there's already a strong foundation of trust. In a normal relationship, building trust can take time, but in friends - to - lovers stories, it's already there. For example, in 'The Hating Game', Lucy and Josh were friends (sort of) before falling in love, so they knew they could rely on each other.
It often involves a slow - burn. They don't just jump into love. In many novels like 'Well Met' by Jen DeLuca, the characters gradually realize their feelings over time. This slow realization of love while already having a friendship base makes for a very satisfying read. It's like watching a flower bloom slowly, and the anticipation builds up the tension in the story.
The main reason is the tension. The initial dislike or rivalry creates a lot of emotional tension that is exciting to read. It's like watching two opposing forces gradually come together.
One popular one is 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' by Jenny Han. It beautifully portrays the transition from childhood friendship to a deeper romantic relationship set against the backdrop of beach summers.
The familiarity. In a best friends to lovers novel, the characters already know each other well. They've shared secrets, joys, and sorrows. This deep connection gives the love story a solid foundation. It's like the love grows out of an already fertile ground of friendship.
They are appealing because they often represent a pure form of love. Starting a relationship from a young age means the characters grow together and share a long history. It gives a sense of familiarity and deep connection that many people find romantic.
They are appealing because of the tension. The initial dislike or animosity between the characters creates a lot of drama. It's exciting to see how that negative energy can transform into love.
The familiarity. In best friend to lovers romance novels, the characters already know each other well. They share inside jokes, memories, and a level of comfort that is really appealing. It's like they have a head start in the relationship.