43. 16 (and a half) Microtropes

what is a microtrope? what are some examples? how is that a reflection of society today?

I’ve seen microtropes running rampant online, and they’ve become some selling points for authors. These are particularly found in romance books, but I definitely think some of the ones I have below can be found in all different types of genres.

What is the difference between a trope and a microtrope?

A trope is a plot device used in a book whereas a microtrope is a character trait that emphasizes or shows the trope in action. These are usually tailored (or can be) to what readers are liking and wanting at the time. Below are a list of a few that first came to mind and that were sent in on my Instagram story!

1. MMC leaning against a wall

2. MMC cooking

3. MMC wearing glasses

4. Forehead kisses

5. MMC rolling up sleeves

6. Senior citizen peanut gallery (second first impressions)

7. Child peanut gallery (the very secret society of irregular witches or the house in the cerulean sea)

8. Nicknames

9. One bed (note: is this a trope or a microtrope? Not really sure)

10. Mementos

11. Feelings Overheard

12. “Why did you do that?” “Why do you think?”

13. Remembering specific details

14. Mental health rep (note: I think this is becoming a trope, but it used to be a microtrope!)

15. Adopting someone when they have no one

16. When the MMC reaches for the FMC but stops himself

    1. bonus points: the Pride and Prejudice fist

It’s interesting that most of these are things the MMC does in a romance for or to the FMC. Little things like remembering specific details that show that the FMC is cared about. What does that say about our society - specifically the scene - right now? That was a rhetorical question, but answer it if you’d like! Also, do you have any other microtropes to add to this list?

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I had to scour the internet for these - sorry if I missed anything! Also: affiliate links

1. Triangle by Danielle Steel (Romance): Oct 1, 2024

2. One Big Happy Family by Susan Mallery (Romance, Family): Oct 1, 2024

3. The House at Watch Hill by Karen Marie Moning (Fantasy, Romance): Oct 1, 2024

4. The Great When by Alan Moore (Historical Fantasy): Oct 1, 2024

5. The Kiss of the Nightingale by Adi Denner (Fantasy, Performing Arts): Oct 1, 2024

6. The Boyfriend by Frieda McFadden (Thriller): Oct 1, 2024

7. The Mighty Red by Louise Erdrich (Literary, Thriller): Oct 1, 2024

Books I’ve compiled from mainly the NYT Bestsellers List, but also the B&N Top 100 and Amazon Bestsellers in no particular order. I’ve decided to simply add the books I haven’t before, since I’ve caught up to the new additions. If you’re curious, last week’s post can be found here.

1. We Solve Murders by Richard Osman (Mystery)

2. The Butcher Game by Alaina Urquhart (Horror, Thriller)

3. The Night We Lost Him by Laura Dave (Thriller)

I’m sorry. No author this week. I’m writing this last minute and already late! A lot of travel and unexpected maintenance left me with little time to pre-write. Feel free to drop any authors you would like me to cover!

Just a reminder to comment any recommendations or email me: thesundayreads@gmail.com!

1. Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors

   1. I am only halfway in, but oh my gosh. What a beautifully written story. The characters we follow are all incredibly flawed and therefore incredibly human. I can’t wait to see where we go.

That’s all for today. Much love

Izzy