Why choose ‘why choose’?

It feels like the whole world is talking about tropes, and whether it’s the ‘chosen one’ trope or ‘there’s only one bed’, we can’t get enough of them. But, as a trope which is still rising in popularity, why should a ‘why choose’ novel be your next read?

The ‘why choose’ trope focuses on the question ‘why choose one of your gorgeous potential love interests when you could have a happy ever after with them all?’ (something anyone who grew up on fanfiction has probably wondered about their favourite characters already).

However, the focus of ‘why choose’ stories isn’t just getting to have multiple out-of-this-world partners, although it may sound like it on the surface. At its heart, ‘why choose’ is about empowerment, with books that use the trope often featuring female main characters whose multiple partners enable her to fully explore different aspects of her personality, wants and needs. As part of their core dynamic, these relationships also often demonstrate great communication skills and a lack of toxic masculinity, creating a safe space for readers to discover plenty of spice!

Ready to try a ‘why choose’ novel? Here are some of our top picks:

The Never List by Jade Presley: The ultimate ‘why choose’ romantasy, when the kingdom of Lumathyst finds itself on the edge of chaos, its four princes must find their fated mate. But the woman they choose as their potential, Rylee, has secrets of her own . . . ones big enough to damn them all.

Kiss of the Basilisk by Lindsay Straube: Twenty-year-old Temperance has never been kissed, but when she’s sent to learn the art of seduction from a basilisk so that she can charm the prince into marrying her, she finds herself torn in this extremely NSFW spicy snake romantasy!

Jacksonville Rays by Emily Rath: Our very own Emily Rath (author of North is the Night)’s bestselling ‘why choose’ hockey romance series, which follows a different main character in each book as she meets the players that will capture her heart.

Bonded by Thorns by Elizabeth Helen: A Beauty and the Beast retelling with four incredibly hot fae princes and one awkward bookworm, this one is for all the ACOTAR fans looking for more spice in their next read.

The Never List publishes on 1^st April 2025 and is available to pre-order now!

Gaby

Assistant Editor, Arcadia Books