Things to Look For in a Dystopian Romance

Dystopian young adult romance is a subgenre that combines elements of dystopian fiction with romantic relationships, often aimed at a teenage audience. As a reader, when looking for or evaluating a dystopian young adult romance, there are several key elements to consider: 1. Unique Dystopian Setting: The setting should be a future world or society that is significantly different from our current reality. This could involve political upheaval, environmental disasters, technological advancements, or other major societal changes.​ 2. Strong Protagonists: The main characters should be relatable and well-developed. They might possess qualities that make them stand out in the dystopian world, such as resilience, bravery, or resourcefulness.​

3. Romantic Tension: The romantic aspect is a central theme, so the chemistry and tension between the love interests should be palpable. The characters' interactions, emotions, and conflicts should drive the romantic arc. 4. Worldbuilding: A successful dystopian young adult romance should have detailed worldbuilding that explains how the dystopian society works, its rules, norms, and how the characters navigate it. 5. Social Commentary: Dystopian fiction often serves as a reflection of real-world issues. Look for themes and commentary on topics like government control, inequality, environmental concerns, or other societal problems. 6. Conflict and Challenges: The dystopian setting should introduce obstacles and challenges that both the romantic relationship and the characters' personal growth must overcome. This could include physical dangers, moral dilemmas, or ethical conflicts. 7. Action and Suspense: Dystopian stories tend to have an element of action and suspense. Exciting and perilous situations can heighten the tension and keep readers engaged. 8. Character Growth: The protagonists should evolve over the course of the story, facing adversity and learning from their experiences. Their personal growth should be interconnected with the progression of their romantic relationship. 9. Supporting Characters: Secondary characters can add depth to the story and provide different perspectives on the dystopian world. Friendships, alliances, and rivalries can impact the main characters' decisions. 10. Resolution: A satisfying conclusion is essential. Whether it's a hopeful or bittersweet ending, the story should address the romantic relationship's fate and the characters' overall journey. 11. Writing Style: The writing should be engaging, immersive, and suitable for the target audience. Dialogue, internal thoughts, and descriptions should all contribute to the reader's emotional connection with the story. 12. Avoiding Clichés: While dystopian romance often includes familiar tropes, a fresh spin or unique take on these elements can set a story apart from others in the genre. ​ Ultimately, the appeal of a dystopian young adult romance lies in the balance between the intense romantic emotions and the exploration of the dystopian world's challenges. When these elements are skillfully combined, it can create a captivating and emotionally resonant reading experience. I'd love to know what you think a Dystopian Romance should have to make it an exciting read for you. It would be great if you left your suggestions below in the comment section. Looking forward to reading your ideas... Eliza Douglas