First is the protagonist, whom the story is all about. Most stories typically have only one protagonist, but in love stories, you may find the couple sharing that title.

The Idealist
The type of character believes in “true love” and “soul mates” and has been desperately waiting to find theirs.

The Charmer
This character may have plenty of romantic experience with a long history of using their charm and self-confidence to pursue (and possibly manipulate) their love interests. Often witty and creative. However, it is someone who also has a vulnerable, even soft-hearted side that few ever see, which makes them appear sympathetic. (Without the vulnerable side, they would make a better villain than a protagonist!)

The Lone Wolf
Possibly someone with a dark past and history of emotional pain who has become distrusting of people as a result and must let their guard down in order to experience love and deep connection.

The Knight in Shining Armor
A protective, loyal, and competent character who may attempt to rescue their love interest in the story's process.

The Rebel or "bad boy/girl"
A character who is independent, unconventional, and perhaps cynical, and challenges the expectations of society and potentially the love interest. This type often blends with other archetypes.

Of course, for it to be considered a love story, the protagonist must also have a love interest. This may be a co-protagonist in some stories.

The Girl or Boy Next Door
A familiar, yet somehow newly exotic, character has recently emerged to capture the protagonist’s attention.

The Out-of-Reach Love Interest
A character who, because of their status, wealth, or other factors, seems unattainable (but of course, they eventually fall for the protagonist, since this is a love story!).

The “Best Friend”
A longtime friend who, in or before the story, fosters romantic feelings.

Almost all love stories have a rival, either a second love interest to make the protagonist’s choice more complicated, or someone also pursuing the love interest, which increases the obstacles. The presence of the rival creates a love triangle, one of the central elements of love stories.

The Ex
A former romantic partner who reappears just at the right time to cause emotional mayhem.

The Annoying One
A charming, but manipulative, character who attempts to seduce either the protagonist or love interest for selfish reasons.

The Unrequited Love
Someone likes someone else, but they don't feel the same way. Oh, the drama!

The “Perfect” Match
A character who seems perfect for the protagonist, but who just doesn't have the right “spark.”

Nearly all love stories have a sidekick character, a friend of the protagonist who characterizes and aids the protagonist and usually gives some humor to the story. Often these sidekick characters will even have their own subplot.

The Promiscuous Sidekick
The promiscuous sidekick, someone who is more experienced (or at least more interested) in romantic pursuits, particularly of the more carnal variety, usually accompanies a less experienced protagonist to push them out of their comfort zone and provide a challenge.

The Idealist Sidekick
This type of character believes in “true love” and “soul mates”. The idealist is best paired with a protagonist who is a tad more cynical.

The Funny and Supportive Sidekick
Caring, kind, and always supportive, this sidekick is best paired with a protagonist with a difficult past.