Ep 228: Grumpy or Black Cat – Exploring the Tropes We Love
What’s the difference between a Grumpy Sunshine romance and a Black Cat-Golden Retriever pairing?
In Buzzing About Romance Episode 228, we break down these two beloved tropes, exploring what makes them so irresistible to romance readers. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of grumpy heroes or you can’t get enough of a guarded, standoffish heroine, this episode dives into why these tropes work—and why we keep coming back for more.
Grumpy Sunshine vs. Black Cat-Golden Retriever
💭 Grumpy Sunshine:
The classic opposites-attract trope where one character (the grump) has a stormy demeanor and the other (the sunshine) brings light and optimism into their life. This dynamic is all about balance, personal growth, and plenty of tension-filled banter.
💭 Black Cat-Golden Retriever:
A newer way to frame opposites, this trope typically features:
The Black Cat: A reserved, cautious, and slightly prickly character who’s slow to trust.
The Golden Retriever: An open, enthusiastic, and endlessly loyal partner who’s determined to win them over.
Books We Discussed
During the episode, we highlighted some of our favorite Grumpy Sunshine and Black Cat-Golden Retriever romances:
Grumpy Sunshine Picks:
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan
Black Cat-Golden Retriever Picks:
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
Morning Glory Milking Farm by C.M. Nocasta
We also explored how these tropes redefine traditional romance dynamics and why they resonate so deeply with readers.
Where to Listen
Want to hear all our thoughts? Catch the full episode:
🎧 On YouTube: Books on YouTube
🎧 On your favorite podcast app
🎧 Or read more on our blog: Ep 228: Grumpy or Black Cat.
What’s your favorite romance trope, and do you gravitate toward grumpy heroes or guarded heroines? Let us know in the comments or join the conversation on social media! Don’t forget to tag us with your favorite book recommendations for these tropes. 🖤✨🐾