Introduction:
In the realm of paranormal romance and romantic fantasy, few tropes are as captivating as "fated by the gods." This trope revolves around the idea that the destinies of the main characters are intertwined or predetermined by divine forces. It adds an extra layer of intrigue and often serves as a driving force for the plot, as characters grapple with their predetermined fates and the challenges that come with them.
What is the "Fated by the Gods" Trope?
At its core, the "fated by the gods" trope involves the intervention of divine beings in the lives of the main characters. Whether through prophecy, divine matchmaking, or shared destiny, the gods play a central role in bringing two characters together and shaping their journey.
Ways to Use the "Fated by the Gods" Trope:
Here are 10 ways this trope can be used effectively in paranormal romance and romantic fantasy stories:
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Prophecy: Characters must come together to fulfill a prophecy that will save their world from destruction.
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Cursed Union: The gods curse two characters to be bound together for eternity, despite their initial reluctance or animosity toward each other.
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Divine Matchmaking: The gods themselves intervene to bring two characters together, often causing chaos or conflict in their mortal lives.
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Forbidden Love: The gods decree that two characters from rival factions or species are fated to be together, despite the laws or norms forbidding their union.
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Shared Destiny: Characters' fates are linked, making it impossible for one to fulfill their destiny without the other.
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Immortal Bond: The gods bind two characters together with an unbreakable bond that transcends time, space, and even death.
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Divine Trials: Characters must undergo a series of trials or challenges set by the gods to prove their worthiness.
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Sacrifice for Love: One character must make a great sacrifice to fulfill their fated union, often at great personal cost.
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Eternal Reincarnation: The gods decree that two characters are destined to find each other in every lifetime, no matter the circumstances or obstacles.
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Divine Intervention: The gods directly intervene in the lives of the characters, manipulating events to ensure they come together and fulfill their destinies.
Why Readers Love It:
The "fated by the gods" trope adds an element of destiny and inevitability to the romance or adventure, keeping readers hooked as they eagerly follow the characters on their journey. It provides a sense of grandeur and importance to the love story, as the characters are not just bound by their own desires, but by the will of higher powers.
Why Writers Use It:
For writers, the "fated by the gods" trope offers endless possibilities for conflict, drama, and world-building. It allows them to explore themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the power of love in the face of adversity. By weaving divine intervention into their stories, writers can create intricate plotlines that keep readers engaged from beginning to end.
Examples in Popular Literature:
- Sabrina A. Fish’s “Children of Hades” series
- J.R. Ward's "Black Dagger Brotherhood" series
- Sherrilyn Kenyon's "Dark-Hunter" series
- Sarah J. Maas's "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series
- Cassandra Clare's "The Mortal Instruments" series
Conclusion:
Whether you're a reader looking for your next paranormal romance fix or a writer seeking inspiration for your next fantasy epic, the "fated by the gods" trope offers endless opportunities for adventure, romance, and divine intervention. So why wait? Dive into a world where destiny is written in the stars and love knows no bounds.