Source
r/writing•
Areedee

How do you do romance as a subplot?

So I have had basically no experience with the romance genre, but I want to add some romance as a subplot into my book. For reference, it is a post-apocalyptic dystopian sci-fi book. Any tips, Do's and Don'ts?

Posted Feb 25, 2019, 6:56 PM UTC

68
[deleted]•

[deleted]

8
apocalypsegalSelf-Published Author•

And look for books about writing romance. There are a few of them out there. Most writing books will cover this in general, I believe. And a web search will find loads of web sites about romance sub plots, which I know because someone has asked almost this exact question today.

4
AllThoseSadSongs•

And if you do it, commit to it. Dont add it just because you think its what people want.

I thought the romance sub plot was unnecessary. I think it detracted from the overall plot, nor to i think she realistically would have chosen either of them to marry. I would have rather it been left out entirely.

6
BitchspotBlogAuthor•

Honestly, first, make sure it's necessary. There are far too many really terrible romance subplots in books where it makes no sense, just because the writer or their publisher wanted to put it in. It has to mean something, not just fill up pages. If it doesn't add something worthwhile to the story, don't do it.

3
iro_leviathan•

i've been wanting to ask the same question and been figureing it out slowly for myself.
i'm also not a romance writer of any kind but its needed for two short scenic subs that
will transform my concepts.

this is not a true list but things i've figured out for myself also /w using this subreddit.

  1. don't push them to kiss
    this essentially means how you engage matters and the entrance timing matters.
  2. follow through in a subtle manner.
    considering its a subplot, the plot itself should intensify this and not the other way around.
    since the romance is not your main focus but lingers.
  3. process;
    essentially the romance should be slice-of-life, it must just go with the limits of your setting
    and not limits of romance though you should know romance do have their own devices.

​

there's also a climax, so it starts looking like it should fit in an outline.

i would say keep it subtle and to the tone of your writing so it just gel, don't worry too much
about the mechanics of romance, too little is better than too much

3
One_snek_•

Do's

Have the romance subplot be an example/counter-example of the novel's underlying theme.

3
Shirahou•

Don't put any two characters together just for the sake of the subplot.

Romance is slowly built up, so the characters need to fit together properly for it to work out. That said, there are times were characters with bad chemistry can develop feelings for each other, but only if they share plenty of experiences.

Also, doing research is great. YouTube has some pretty nice videos. I suggest you try this one: https://youtu.be/sMbch47oz2c

I hope this was helpful, and good luck with writing!

2
writecute•

Like Mulder and Scully! Always almost getting together but never quite!

1