Wattpad Group Chat

Why are we so obsessed with forbidden love stories?

November 24, 2023

You always want what you can't have. This is the heart of what makes forbidden love so enticing; the idea that when you're not supposed to do something, you want to do it even more. When told "no," the temptation becomes almost unbearable, paving the way for a spicy, secretive and, at times, scandalous love story, like the Wattpad series My Brother's Best Friend, written by Deanna Faison (@Believeeexoxo). These tales, often intertwined with the delicate nuances of coming-of-age experiences, unravel the complexities of love that defy social norms. So, what is it about the mysterious magnetism that draws us to forbidden love narratives?

The allure of forbidden love

Forbidden love stories wield a timeless allure rooted in the very essence of human nature. The rebellion against societal norms and the audacious pursuit of love against all odds provide a narrative canvas painted with tension, drama, and a visceral connection to the characters. The My Brother's Best Friend series follows this tradition, weaving a tale that explores the depth and intensity of love, positioning it against the backdrop of societal expectations.

Unraveling the crush element

At the heart of many coming-of-age forbidden love stories lies a nuanced exploration of the crush—an emotion that transcends the superficial and delves into the profound. In My Brother's Best Friend, we watch Maddie and Cameron navigate the delicate terrain of their initial attraction, all while steering clear of clichéd tropes and delving into the emotional complexities that underpin a burgeoning connection. To drive the message of secrecy home, their crush begins while playing a blindfolded game of seven minutes in heaven, but of course, lasts much longer than seven minutes in a closet. The crush, a catalyst for the narrative, becomes a lens through which the two protagonists navigate their evolving identities and desires.

From crush to lifelong love

From fleeting infatuation to lasting love, Maddie and Cameron evolve from the initial crush to a deep, enduring love. Beyond the initial flush of lust, the story unfolds as a testament to their growth and maturation, capturing the essence of coming-of-age, where they have to navigate the complexities of their emotions. And complex they are—especially when Cameron introduces his new girlfriend to Maddie at a family Christmas party, putting the strength of their connection to the test. The idea that a crush will turn into something more, something meaningful, is a fantasy many of us cling to, but rarely comes true. But anything can come true in a story; the ultimate escape into a reality we long for. Being able to witness their love as it ripens and matures over the years gives hope that this can happen in real life, too.

Exploring family dynamics

Where there's forbidden love, there's usually clashing family dynamics (Romeo and Juliet, anyone?). The tension between personal desires and familial expectations adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, creating a rich and textured backdrop against which the characters' love story unfolds. It's within this crucible of family dynamics that the true strength of Maddie and Cameron's love is tested, and where the reader can feel a real sense of relatability. The real test comes when the duo has to navigate the challenges of harboring a very big secret, all while dealing with the fallout from past family conflicts that threaten to tear them apart.

The emotional resonance

At their core, forbidden love stories resonate with readers thanks to their ability to tap into universal emotions. The series delves into the emotional landscape of desire, sacrifice and self-discovery, offering readers a mirror to reflect on their own experiences. The emotional resonance, heightened by the authentic portrayal of the characters' struggles, creates a connection that transcends the fictional realm. When it rains, it pours, and all of us resonate with the juggling of multiple challenges at once—like an ex seeking revenge, a nanny with bad intentions, and a paparazzi intrusion, perhaps?

A great escape

Forbidden love stories provide a gateway to escapism and fantasy, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a world where love conquers all, from societal norms to familial expectations. My Brother's Best Friend offers this escape, inviting us to navigate a realm where the characters' enduring affection becomes a beacon of hope. The suspension of reality in favor of an idealized love story makes these kinds of stories absolutely irresistible. Who doesn't love a bit of spice and romance to escape into every now and then (or every day)?

Here's what we want to know: What is it about forbidden love stories that draw you in?

- - -

Love a forbidden love story? Catch up on the My Brother's Best Friend series before indulging in the NEW season. 

Season 1: My Brother's Best Friend

Season 2: In Five Years

Season 3: The Perfect Timing - FREE for a limited time from November 24-December 1 (It's the perfect time to catch up!)

Season 4: The Final Countdown - Launches TODAY! Time to get reading (and swooning... 💋). 

And while you're swooning, stay tuned to Community Happenings next month for more information on how you can read Season 4 and win Coins to read more stories FREE. 👀

— Wattpad HQ