In romantasy, few themes are as powerful as love that defies the odds. Whether it's a forbidden relationship between enemies, love that blossoms across class divides, or an alliance between seemingly incompatible forces, the tension and drama of impossible love create the kind of epic tales that capture the heart. In this chapter, explore the concept of forbidden love and the strength of love that emerges in the face of overwhelming challenges. Your characters will face the most difficult of choices, risking everything for love, often breaking societal rules, or defying the very laws that govern their worlds.

The Forbidden Fae

A mortal, tasked with protecting their village from magical threats, discovers that the creature they've been hunting is not an enemy at all, but a fae who has been exiled for defying their own kind. The fae is wounded, weak, and in need of help, and the mortal feels compelled to protect them, despite their sworn duty to destroy all magical creatures. As the mortal cares for the fae, the two begin to form an unlikely bond, one that grows into a forbidden love. But as their relationship deepens, both must grapple with the consequences of loving someone from a race that has been at odds with humanity for centuries. Can they overcome the cultural divide, or will their love tear them apart?

The Prince and the Rebel

A young prince, bound by royal duty, is promised to a noblewoman in an arranged marriage to secure peace between two kingdoms. But when the prince meets a rebellious freedom fighter, leading a faction against the kingdom's oppressive rule, he finds himself drawn to them in a way he cannot ignore. Torn between his duty to his kingdom and his desire for the rebel's passion and ideals, the prince must choose between his love for the rebel and the future of the kingdom. As war looms, the prince and the rebel must decide if they can fight for their love and the cause they believe in, or if their hearts will be the ultimate sacrifice.

The Shapeshifter's Heart

A shapeshifter, bound by a pact with an ancient clan, is forced to live a life of secrecy and deception. Their true form is feared by the people, and they are hunted for their abilities. However, the shapeshifter finds themselves falling in love with someone who is unaware of their identity—a person whose very life would be in danger if they discovered the truth. As their love grows, the shapeshifter is faced with an impossible decision: reveal the truth and risk their lover's safety, or keep their secret and let the love they've found remain in the shadows. But with enemies closing in, the shapeshifter knows that keeping their secret may no longer be an option.

The Witch and the Knight

A young knight, sworn to protect the realm, is ordered to capture and kill a powerful witch who has been accused of treason. But when he finds the witch, he discovers that she is not the monster she's been made out to be. The witch is a victim of political manipulation, and her powers are being used by those in the kingdom to further their own agendas. As the knight and the witch grow closer, they realize that they are not so different after all. Both are pawns in a game of power, and together they must decide whether to fight for the kingdom's rulers or risk everything to expose the truth. Their love, however, could lead to their downfall, as magic and politics make for a volatile mix.

The Star-Crossed Lovers

Two beings from rival worlds—one from the realm of light, the other from the realm of shadows—find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. The laws of their worlds forbid them from ever coming together, and their love threatens the delicate balance between their realms. As they secretly meet and discover the truth of their connection, they must decide whether to defy the ancient laws of their people and risk the destruction of both worlds, or live out their lives apart, knowing they can never be together without facing dire consequences. As the pressure mounts, they must question whether love is worth sacrificing everything they've ever known.

Writing Tip

When writing about forbidden love, it's crucial to create a sense of tension and urgency in the relationship. The very nature of forbidden love makes the stakes higher—your characters know that their love is either impossible or will come at a significant cost. Use this tension to drive the plot forward, making every moment of the romance charged with danger, secrecy, and passion.

Consider the external forces that challenge your characters. Whether it's societal rules, family expectations, or political conflict, these forces should be as present and active as the characters themselves. The love between your characters should feel like an act of rebellion, and every interaction should carry the weight of the consequences that could follow.

Internal conflict is just as important. Show how the characters struggle with their desire for love versus the obligations or beliefs they must uphold. These internal battles will make their love feel even more precious, because it is something they have to fight for, despite the odds.

Remember, forbidden love stories often have bittersweet or tragic endings, but that doesn't mean they have to be completely hopeless. Allow your characters to grow, even if they cannot ultimately be together. The beauty of forbidden love lies in the courage to love despite the obstacles, and in the sacrifices that come with it.

Share your stories of forbidden love in the comments and let readers be swept up in the thrilling, passionate, and heartbreaking tales of romance that defy the rules. Let the impossible love between your characters leave a lasting imprint on the hearts of your audience.