Saturday, June 9, 2012

Love Triangles


by Vanessa Barger

I have an important question for you, the readers. As a writer, and someone who loves a good romance, I have to wonder, has the sudden trend in young adult fiction bothered you? (No, I’m not talking about sparkly vampires) I mean the Love Triangle. Every time I pick up a YA book now, 9 times out of 10, there’s a love triangle. Personally, I’m kind of over them.

Usually it’s between the “good guy” who’s not really good and the “bad boy” who’s not all bad. Or some variation thereof. However, mostly, it kind-of makes the heroine look weak and wishy-washy. Like she can’t even make up her own mind. What’s so wrong with picking one and sticking with it? You can have an awesome story just by picking someone that maybe you aren’t supposed to. Or maybe because she picked the wrong one.

I’m not saying a triangle can’t work. I’m just saying that anymore, unless it’s awesome, I quit reading. Or don’t even start, if I’m honest.
What about you?  Love them? Hate them?

4 comments:

VS Morgan said...

Yeah, I'm not a fan of love triangles. Characters often seem flaky to me as they go back and forth with their affections.

TK Anthony + www.scotianrealm.com said...

The only triangle set-up that gives the heroine an "out" from wishy-washy is when she knows what she wants, but she's backed into a corner to choose the other (societal pressure, somebody's Last Will and Testament, the fate of the planet). Then the story's less about the triangle, and more about love overcoming obstacles.

Casea Major said...

I love a good love triangle in any shape or form. LOL Nothing conflicts me more than having to chose between two equally compelling heroes. Thanks for sharing.

Barbara Elsborg said...

I don't mind them but I have noticed the YA books I've read - have ALL had them. That does get boring.