trope
Arranged Marriage
A story where the protagonists are wed by family, political, or financial decree rather than personal choice, often before they've even met or fallen in love.
Why readers love it
Readers love the tension of two strangers forced into intimacy, watching resentment and duty slowly crack open into desire and devotion. The built-in conflict strips away courtship games and throws the couple straight into the deep end of commitment.
Also called
Marriage of convenience
forced marriage
betrothal contract
dynastic marriage
mail-order bride
shot-gun wedding
Want the full breakdown?
What is an arranged marriage in fiction? Explore commitment first, feelings second, and why this trope works. Read the full guide.
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