The protagonist wants the partner, but they need something else (a promotion, revenge) that the partner stands in the way of. 3. The Relationship Beats
Even great writers fall into traps with link relationships.
We see how characters behave in different contexts—as a friend, a colleague, and a lover—making them feel like three-dimensional humans rather than archetypes. Common Tropes to Watch For The Shared Secret:
❌ – If a link forces romance, character agency disappears, reducing emotional payoff. ❌ Emotional Shortcut – Writers sometimes use a link instead of building genuine chemistry through dialogue and shared values. ❌ Unequal Power Dynamics – Bonds that are one-sided (e.g., a master-slave magical tie) can unintentionally romanticize coercion. ❌ Predictability – Linked romances often telegraph endings (e.g., “break the bond or die together”).
For a post that digs into the weight of romantic connections and the "storylines" we build with others, here are a few deep options depending on the vibe you want to strike. The Evolution of Us