What is paranormal romance - The Ultimate Genre

A Reader’s Guide to Paranormal romance: books, series, authors and tropes

Few genres offer the same depth of creativity and endless possibilities as paranormal romance. It’s a genre where the boundaries of reality blur and the realms of fantasy come alive. You have your mystical creatures roaming freely, and love transcending the limits of time and space and even species! Most times you’ll get to explore plain old human brutality like in other genres, but with a spin, you’d never see coming! Let me introduce you to the amazing and sexy world of paranormal romance.

What is it first of all?

Paranormal romance is a subgenre of literature. It is a mix of romance and speculative fiction that has captivated imaginations since the late 80’s and early 90's

In fact, the first novel featuring a supernatural love interest with romance as its main plot point was The Ivory Key written by Rita Clay Estrada in 1987 (Ford) and that’s not counting those classics with a more mysterious, gothic main idea like Dracula and Frankenstein.

Turns out humans have had the hots for what goes bump in the night all along!

Defining Paranormal Romance

When one reads the word paranormal they’ll be forgiven for first picturing drone footage hovering over an allegedly haunted asylum and or the frightened mug of a ghost hunter lit up by a neon green night vision camera.

Because paranormal means ghostly figures in white gowns floating around old castles, right? Sure, that’s part of it but also paranormal signifies much more.

In the term “paranormal,” the prefix “para-” originates from Greek and means “beyond” or “beside.” “Paranormal” refers to phenomena or occurrences that are beyond the scope of normal scientific understanding or explanation. (“Supernatural Words — 101+ Words Related To Supernatural”) With this definition, we can include aliens and Ufo’s, shapeshifters and cryptids, all manner of the chilling and mysterious figures of the night.

How PNR got its ravenous fanbase: As a paranormal romance junkie, I have my own theories about this but of course, the internet is loud as usual. The consensus on why paranormal romance fans show up in droves for the likes of Anne Rice and Deborah Harkness are — — well what you would expect. Escapism.

From online forums to journals of psychological experts, the crux of paranormal romance super fandom is this: Paranormal romance provides readers with the ultimate escape into their wildest fantasies.

Societal norms can make stepping outside of your comfort zone and into the unknown a very dicey idea. Many readers live vicariously through their favorite characters! Who would deny there is an obvious thrill (or danger) in falling madly in love with a vampire, Kraken, alien overlord, etc. Paranormal romance is a wild ride on a rocket ship to places we’ll never truly go outside of the covers of a book. Anything could happen, to you.

Common Themes and Tropes found in popular Paranormal Romance:

There are many tropes in PNR romance unique to the genre but these are the top ten most fans will know instantly.

Fated Mates: This trope revolves around the idea that two characters are destined to be together, often due to supernatural or magical forces. Their connection is preordained, and they may have an intense bond that transcends time and space. My favorite example of this trope is Rebecca Zanetti’s Prince of Darkness (Part of the Dark Protectors Series) where mates can share their gifts with their fated.
Forbidden Love: This trope features a romance between characters who face significant barriers to being together, such as societal norms, family expectations, or even supernatural laws. The tension arises from the struggle to overcome these obstacles in pursuit of their love.
Alpha Male: In paranormal romance, the alpha male typically embodies traits of strength, dominance, and protectiveness. He may be a werewolf pack leader, a powerful vampire, or another dominant supernatural being. Despite his tough exterior, he often has a soft spot for the protagonist.
Secret Identity: One or both of the romantic leads harbor a hidden identity, often involving supernatural powers or affiliations. This secrecy adds intrigue and suspense to the romance as the characters navigate trust and deception.
Small Town Secrets: This trope is prevalent in settings where a seemingly ordinary small town hides supernatural mysteries or inhabitants. The romance unfolds against the backdrop of uncovering these secrets, which may threaten the characters’ safety or relationships.
Cursed Love: In this trope, one or both of the romantic partners are cursed, either by a supernatural entity, a family curse, or a spell gone awry. The curse becomes a central obstacle to their relationship, requiring them to find a way to break it to be together.

This one is a favorite amongst paranormal romance fans and as well as the main premise in my own series. Whether writing or reading, cursed love is equal parts electrifying and soul-shattering.

Parallel Worlds: Characters in paranormal romance often traverse between different dimensions or parallel worlds, where they encounter alternate versions of themselves or face challenges unique to each realm. This trope adds an extra layer of complexity to the romance as the characters navigate unfamiliar environments.” A Court of Thorns and Roses” series by Sarah J. Maas: This series follows Feyre Archeron as she navigates a world divided between humans and faeries, with different realms and parallel worlds playing a significant role in the storyline.

Great books and series featuring parallel worlds as a main premise:

Enemies to Lovers: This trope features protagonists who start off as adversaries, often due to their differing allegiances, supernatural species, or personal vendettas. As they overcome their animosity and develop mutual respect and understanding, their enmity transforms into romantic feelings.

This particular trope has a voracious readership perhaps stemming from the atmospheric rise of series like A Court of Thorns and Roses — ACOTAR by Sarah J. Maas — or Holly Black’s The Folk of the Air series

Destined Prophecy: A prophecy foretells the romantic union of the protagonists or hints at their significant role in shaping the supernatural world. The characters may be fated to fulfill a prophecy together, leading to a romance intertwined with destiny and fate.

One of my personal favorites of this trope will be nostalgic to long-term readers of the genre and that is The Fallen Series by Lauren Kate. This young adult series might be the jumping-off point for thousands of adult PNR fans today!

Elemental Magic: In worlds where magic exists, elemental magic focuses on the manipulation of natural elements such as fire, water, air, and earth. Characters may possess innate or learned abilities to control these elements, which often play a significant role in the plot and romance of paranormal stories.

Great places to start reading:

Subgenre Exploration: Introduce subgenres like vampires, werewolves, witches, etc., and highlight their unique characteristics.

1. Paranormal Romantic Comedy: Mixing romance with humor and supernatural elements, this subgenre delivers light-hearted and entertaining stories. Expect quirky characters, witty banter, and fantastical situations that add comedic flair to the romance.

Recommended reading:

2. Gothic Romance: Drawing inspiration from classic Gothic literature, this subgenre features atmospheric settings, brooding heroes, and mysterious heroines. Dark themes, supernatural elements, and romantic suspense characterize these hauntingly romantic tales.

Recommended reading:

3. Shifter Romance: Shifter romances center on characters who can transform into animals, such as werewolves, werebears, or other shape-shifting creatures. These stories explore the dynamics of pack politics, primal instincts, and forbidden love.

Recommended reading:

4. Vampire Romance: This subgenre revolves around romantic relationships involving vampires. From brooding anti-heroes to seductive immortals, vampire romances delve into themes of eternal love, forbidden desires, and the struggle between darkness and redemption.

Recommended reading:

6. Ghost Romance: Ghost romances involve love stories between the living and the dead. Whether it’s a haunted house romance or a ghostly apparition seeking closure, these tales explore themes of love transcending mortality and the supernatural world intersecting with the living.

Recommended reading:

“The Ghost and the Graveyard” by Genevieve Jack
“The Ghost and the Goth” by Stacey Kade

7. Time Travel Romance: In these stories, characters embark on journeys through time, encountering love across different eras or timelines. Time travel adds an extra layer of complexity to the romance as characters navigate temporal paradoxes and historical settings.

Recommended reading:

8. Angel and Demon Romance: This subgenre explores romantic relationships between angels, demons, and humans. Themes of forbidden love, celestial warfare, and moral ambiguity often feature prominently as characters navigate the boundaries between heaven, hell, and earth.

Recommended reading:

9. Fairy Tale Retellings: Drawing inspiration from classic fairy tales, these romances reimagine familiar stories with paranormal twists. Whether it’s a modern-day Cinderella with a vampire prince or a werewolf in Beauty and the Beast, these retellings offer fresh perspectives on timeless tales.

Recommended reading:

The Parts of Paranormal Romance

Exploring the Characters of Paranormal Romance

1. The Bad Boys and Bad Girls:

Vampires: With their timeless allure and dangerous charisma, vampires are a staple of paranormal romance. Whether clad in leather jackets or Victorian attire, these undead heartthrobs exude mystery and magnetism. My favorites are Lestat from Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles and Bram Stoker’s Dracula which imo should be considered romantic!
Shifters: You’ve heard of werewolves, but there is so much more to unpack when it comes to shifter characters. We have the popular bear shifters, dragon shifters, and even mongoose shifters! Usually, these characters share pack dynamics, primal instincts, and rugged charm that define the original werewolf archetype. These shape-shifters often wrestle with inner demons while protecting their loved ones with ferocious loyalty.
Witches: Armed with spells, potions, and a wicked sense of humor, witches bring a touch of magic and mischief to paranormal romance. From green-skinned crones to modern-day enchantresses, they command attention with their supernatural abilities. Don’t you just love the idea of love potions?
Ghosts: Ghosts are prevalent in literary and gothic fiction but paranormal romance found its way to the “other side” a long time ago. Ghosts aren’t just figments of our imagination in paranormal romance — they’re characters with their own agendas, secrets, and sometimes, unfinished business. From lovelorn spirits haunting old manors to vengeful apparitions seeking justice, ghostly conflicts add an eerie, emotional, and sometimes hilarious depth to paranormal romance novels.

2. The Fierce Heroines and Heroes:

Protagonists: Paranormal romance fans are particular when it comes to badass, swoon-worthy characters. Whether wielding magical powers or navigating treacherous supernatural realms, protagonists in paranormal romance are bold, resilient, and unapologetically themselves. They face adversity head-on, armed with wit, determination, and a dash of sass.
Anti-Heroes: Not all heroes wear capes — some prefer leather jackets and smoldering bedroom eyes. Anti-heroes in paranormal romance are complex characters with a dark past and a heart of gold, often walking a fine line between light and shadow. You never know if they’ll pivot at the last minute so keep your eyes glued to their every move!

Protagonists: Common Character Tropes:

The Reluctant Heroine/Hero: These characters often start as ordinary people but are thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Despite initial reluctance, they rise to the challenge, discovering inner strength and hidden abilities.
The Chosen One: Marked by destiny, these characters have unique powers or roles that set them apart. Their journey involves embracing their fate and overcoming obstacles that test their resolve and capabilities.
The Warrior: Skilled in combat and unafraid of confrontation, warrior protagonists are fierce protectors. Their physical prowess is matched by their mental toughness, making them formidable opponents to any supernatural threat.
The Healer: Compassionate and nurturing, healers possess powers that mend both physical wounds and emotional scars. Their journey often involves balancing their empathetic nature with the harsh realities of their world.

Anti-Heroes: Dark and Irresistible

Not all heroes wear capes — some prefer leather jackets and smoldering bedroom eyes. Anti-heroes in paranormal romance are complex characters with a dark past and a heart of gold, often walking a fine line between light and shadow. You never know if they’ll pivot at the last minute, so keep your eyes glued to their every move! Here are some typical anti-hero tropes:

The Brooding Loner: Scarred by past traumas, these characters exude a mysterious allure. Their solitary nature hides a deep well of emotion, and their journey often involves opening up and finding trust in others.
The Rogue: Charming and unpredictable, rogues live by their own rules. They might engage in morally gray activities, but their charisma and underlying sense of justice make them captivating and unpredictable.
The Byronic Hero: Named after the poetic archetype, these characters are tortured souls with a dark edge. They are passionate, and introspective, and often struggle with inner demons that complicate their relationships and actions.
The Redeemed Villain: Once antagonists, these characters seek redemption for past misdeeds. Their path is fraught with guilt and attempts to atone, making their transformation both compelling and heart-wrenching.

World-Building:

Why World-Building Matters in Paranormal Romance:

Ever picked up a paranormal romance novel and felt like you were stepping into another world? That’s the magic of world-building. In these books, the setting isn’t just a backdrop — it’s like a character all its own. It’s where vampires lurk in shadowy alleys, werewolves prowl under the moonlight, and witches brew potions in hidden nooks. Some characters are reared in dark shadowy urban cities, and some in medieval countryside estates.

Urban Paranormal/ Fantasy Settings:

In urban fantasy, the supernatural coexists with the modern world, often in gritty, bustling cityscapes. These settings blend the familiar with the fantastical, making the presence of vampires, werewolves, and witches feel plausible in our everyday lives.

Examples:

Shadowy Alleys and Hidden Clubs: Think of vampires lurking in the shadowy alleys of New York City or secret underground clubs where supernatural beings gather. J.R Ward’s Dark Lover.
Modern Challenges: Characters might grapple with urban challenges like gentrification or gang violence, but with a supernatural twist, such as werewolf packs fighting for territory or witches protecting ancient magical sites.

2. Historical Fantasy

These settings transport readers to past eras, blending historical authenticity with magical elements. This type of world-building often involves meticulous research to ensure historical accuracy, overlaid with a layer of the supernatural.

Examples:

Medieval and earlier: A noblewoman discovering her witch heritage in a sprawling manor or a knight falling in love with a shape-shifter amidst the backdrop of medieval England. These types of paranormal romance books definitely appeal to history buffs.
Victorian Mysteries: A vampire detective in Victorian London or a romance between a human and a ghost in an old manor.

For Optimal Freshness: Read the Parasol Protectorate Series by Gail Carriger

3. Small-Town Paranormal

Small-town settings offer a cozy yet eerie backdrop where the supernatural blends with the charm of rural life. These settings create a sense of intimacy and community, making the presence of supernatural elements feel both startling and believable.

Examples:
Hidden Secrets in Quaint Villages: A witch running a small-town apothecary or a werewolf sheriff maintaining order in a town where everyone knows each other’s secrets. Did you know the small town setting of Mystic Falls, Virginia in The Vampire Diaries is actually the smaller (microscopic) little town of Covington, Georgia! They have beautiful gift shops.
Rural Legends and Folklore: Local legends coming to life, with supernatural occurrences linked to the town’s history. You might be thinking Twilight, and you might be right.

5. Honorable Mention: Alternate Realities

These settings create parallel worlds or dimensions, often accessible through portals or magical means. They blend elements of the real world with entirely new realms, offering limitless possibilities for adventure and romance.

Portal Fantasy: A modern-day heroine who stumbles through a portal into a world where magic reigns, and finds love with a warrior from that realm.
Blended Realities: Characters who can move between a supernatural dimension and our world, dealing with threats and romances in both.

6. Post-Apocalyptic

Post-apocalyptic settings depict a world that has undergone a catastrophic event, leaving it changed and often overrun with supernatural elements. These environments are harsh and unforgiving, making survival a key theme.

Ruined Cities: Survivors in a decimated city infested with supernatural beings, where human and vampire (or other supernatural characters) must work together to survive.
Desolate Landscapes: Love blossoming in a world where magic caused the apocalypse, and now remnants of that magic linger in dangerous forms.

Recommended Readings:

The Immortal Rules (Blood of Eden Book 1) Kindle Edition by Julie Kagawa

A Blood Deep Darkness (The Dark Reunion Series Book 1) by Tish Thomas

The best paranormal romance worlds are like a treasure hunt waiting to be discovered. Keep an eye out for hidden secrets, ancient prophecies, and unexpected twists. The world-building is a huge factor in why paranormal romance and fantasy romance novels have such a huge fan base! That and the sizzling chemistry between the MCS…

Let’s explore the Hottest Topic in PNR: Romantic Arcs!

Enemies-to-Lovers: A tale as old as time just ask Belle!

Picture this: sparks flying, tempers flaring, and enough chemistry to light up the night sky — that’s enemies-to-lovers in a nutshell! In these romances, protagonists start off as fierce adversaries, but as they battle side by side against common foes (or maybe just their own stubborn hearts), they discover a deeper connection that transcends their differences. Here’s looking at Katniss and Peeta from “The Hunger Games,” or Feyre and Rhysand from “A Court of Thorns and Roses.”

2. Fated Mates: Another classic, but this time in a “meant to be” sort of way! In fated mates romances, destiny takes the wheel. Which can be a conflict and an advantage.

Protagonists are usually bound together by ancient prophecies, mystical bonds, or the whims of fate itself. Whether it’s werewolves drawn to their human mates by an irresistible scent or witches bound by their aligned astral charts, these romances are all about embracing the inevitability of love.

Must read Rec of this Trope: “Feral Sins” by Suzanne Wright

3. Forbidden Love: What’s more tantalizing than a love that’s as forbidden as it is irresistible? Forbidden love romances are all about defying the odds and following your heart, even when it leads you down a dangerous path. Whether it’s a vampire falling for a mortal, a witch falling for a witch hunter, or a ghost falling for… well, anyone really, these romances are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Think Romeo and Juliet (minus the tragic ending), or Edward and Bella from “Twilight.” I know Twilight again. It’s just a mainstay or you might try:

“Angel’s Blood” by Nalini Singh

Soulmates Reunited: Sometimes love transcends time, space, and even death itself. In soulmates reunited romances, protagonists are drawn together across lifetimes, bound by a love that’s as eternal as it is undeniable. Whether it’s star-crossed lovers finding each other in every reincarnation or lost souls reuniting in the afterlife, these romances are guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings. Think Luce and Daniel from “Fallen,” or Clare and Jamie from “Outlander.”

What goes down in Paranormal Romance worlds?

Supernatural Conflicts and Plots propellers to expect:

Imagine a world where vampires, werewolves, and witches clash in epic battles that shake the very foundations of reality — that’s the kind of supernatural conflict I’m talking about! In paranormal romance, you can expect a hefty dose of otherworldly showdowns. Fights, car chases, deadly spells wreaking havoc. These books are all about testing the limits of love, loyalty, and bravery in the face of darkness. Magic and mayhem is what keeps the plot burning and the pages turning.

Secret, secrets, secrets:

But wait Paranormal romance isn’t just about creatures prowling dark alleys. Some books, especially those of the hard-building variety can get pretty intricate in their story delivery.

A lot of times your favorite series will feature secret societies, conspiracies, and covert affairs. Many of the plots found in extremely popular paranormal romance series are about uncovering hidden secrets lying beneath the surface of certain worlds. Underworld societies, hidden governments, and shadowy organizations pulling the strings behind the scenes or holding the keys to power, knowledge, and maybe even immortality are common adversaries for PNR characters.

More Common Plot Devices in Paranormal Romance

Vampire hunters societies
Battles between light and dark covens of witches
The protection of sworn ancient secrets
Discord among werewolf (or other shifting creatures) packs
Old books or other artifacts unlocking the secrets of the supernatural world

So where do you start with paranormal romance?

Must-Read: Essential Starter-Kit for paranormal romance books and series.

“Dark Lover” by J.R. Ward

Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book 1
Synopsis: This series introduces readers to a group of warrior vampires. The first book follows Wrath, the last purebred vampire, as he navigates a forbidden romance with a half-breed human, Beth while protecting his species from deadly enemies.

2. “A Discovery of Witches” by Deborah Harkness

Series: All Souls Trilogy, Book 1
Synopsis: Historian and reluctant witch Diana Bishop accidentally uncovers an enchanted manuscript. This discovery brings her into the world of Matthew Clairmont, a vampire geneticist, leading to a romance that defies their respective species’ rules.

3. “Dead Until Dark” by Charlaine Harris

Series: Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood, Book 1
Synopsis: In a world where vampires have come out of the coffin, telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse falls for vampire Bill Compton. Their relationship opens her up to a world of supernatural beings and dangers.

4. “City of Bones” by Cassandra Clare

Series: The Mortal Instruments, Book 1
Synopsis: Clary Fray discovers she is part of a hidden world of Shadowhunters. As she delves deeper into this world, she forms a complicated, forbidden relationship with the enigmatic Jace Wayland.

5. “Angel’s Blood” by Nalini Singh

Series: Guild Hunter, Book 1
Synopsis: Vampire hunter Elena Deveraux is hired by the powerful archangel Raphael to track down a rogue archangel. Their growing attraction is forbidden and dangerous, adding tension to their mission (Reviewgeek recommends)

6. “Halfway to the Grave” by Jeaniene Frost

Series: Night Huntress, Book 1
Synopsis: Half-vampire Catherine “Cat” Crawfield is on a mission to hunt down vampires, seeking revenge for her mother. Her life takes a turn when she meets the vampire Bones, who becomes her partner in hunting and more.

7. “Moon Called” by Patricia Briggs

Series: Mercy Thompson, Book 1
Synopsis: Mercy Thompson, a mechanic and shapeshifter, lives in a world filled with werewolves, vampires, and fae. Her quiet life gets complicated when she gets involved with the local werewolf pack and its charismatic Alpha, Adam.

8. “Darkfever” by Karen Marie Moning

Series: Fever, Book 1
Synopsis: MacKayla Lane travels to Ireland to solve her sister’s murder, only to find herself plunged into a world of fae and magic. She encounters Jericho Barrons, a mysterious bookstore owner, and their chemistry ignites against a backdrop of supernatural intrigue.

9. “Twilight” by Stephenie Meyer

Series: Twilight Saga, Book 1
Synopsis: When Bella Swan moves to Forks, Washington, she meets the enigmatic Edward Cullen, who she discovers is a vampire. Their love story is complicated by their different worlds and the dangers that come with them.

10. “The Darkest Night” by Gena Showalter

Series: Lords of the Underworld, Book 1
Synopsis: This series introduces a group of immortal warriors each cursed with a demon. The first book focuses on Maddox, possessed by the demon of Violence, and his romance with Ashlyn, a human woman with a unique gift.

Additional Resources

Online Communities, Websites, and Forums for Further Exploration

1. Goodreads: Goodreads is an essential platform for readers of all genres, including paranormal romance. It offers book recommendations, reviews, and community groups.

Paranormal Romance Shelf on Goodreads: Discover new books and connect with other readers. Explore here.

2. All About Romance: This website offers reviews, author interviews, and articles about romance novels, including paranormal romance.

3. Romance.io: A website that aggregates reviews and provides detailed information about romance novels, including extensive lists of paranormal romance books.

4. Paranormal Romance Guild: An organization that offers reviews, interviews, and a community for authors and readers of paranormal romance.

Now, I think we’ve answered the question, What is paranormal romance?

Paranormal romance isn’t just a genre — it’s a portal to endless realms of imagination, where love knows no bounds and magic lurks around every corner. We have our forbidden romances to epic battles between supernatural beings. This genre offers something for every reader seeking adventure, intrigue, and, of course, steamy romance.

In this guide, we’ve delved deep into the world of paranormal romance, exploring its origins, defining its key elements, and highlighting its most beloved tropes and themes. We’ve examined the diverse array of characters, from brooding vampires to fierce werewolves, and explored the intricate world-building that brings these fantastical stories to life. But whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the genre, there’s always more to explore. Pick up one of the recommended books or series, join online communities to connect with fellow enthusiasts and immerse in the magic of paranormal romance.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the realms of paranormal romance. May your adventures be filled with passion, mystery, and happily-ever-afters! Happy reading!

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Ford, Deri. “Paranormal Romance: What Is It?” Smashbear Publishing. Accessed 2024, https://www.smashbearpublishing.com/post/paranormal-romance-what-is-it#:~:text=The%20first%20romance%20book%20involving,Rita%20Clay%20Estrada%20(1987)..

Ford, Susan Allen. “Paranormal Romance: A Sizzling History.” The New York Times, 17 June 2010, www.nytimes.com/2010/06/20/books/review/Ford-t.html.
Supernatural Words — 101+ Words Related To Supernatural, https://thecontentauthority.com/blog/words-related-to-supernatural.
10 Enchanting Supernatural Romance Books | TheReviewGeek Recommends, https://www.thereviewgeek.com/10books-supernaturalromance/.