I'd recommend 'Fifty Shades of Grey'. Christian Grey has his moments of being mean, and it adds to the tension and drama of the story. However, it's a controversial choice for some readers.
Well, 'Pride and Prejudice' comes to mind. Mr. Darcy is initially seen as mean but undergoes character growth.
In 'Pride and Prejudice', Mr. Darcy initially comes across as a mean hero. His pride makes him seem cold and aloof, and his first proposal to Elizabeth is rather rude. However, as the story progresses, we discover his true nature and the love that lies beneath his somewhat prickly exterior. This transformation is a key part of the classic romance.
One such novel could be 'The Wicked Duke' where the duke's initial behavior towards the heroine is quite harsh, but their relationship evolves over time.
The best mean heroes are complex characters. They might be gruff or act coldly, but it's usually because they've been hurt in the past. Take Rhett Butler from 'Gone with the Wind'. His mean - ness was partly a defense mechanism, but his love for Scarlett was real and full of passion. They also tend to be very passionate in their relationships once they let their guards down.
One such novel could be 'The Betrayed Hearts.' In this story, the hero cheats, causing a lot of drama and emotional turmoil for the couple.
One such novel could be 'The Broken Hearts of Summer' where the male lead has a vulnerable side due to past traumas.
One such novel could be 'The Protector's Promise' where the hero is fiercely protective of the heroine throughout the story.
One such novel could be 'The Scarred Heart.' In this story, the hero has endured a traumatic past that leaves him emotionally shattered. His journey of healing and finding love is both touching and captivating.
Well, 'The Fault in Our Stars' could be one. The male lead has gone through a lot of emotional turmoil.
One such novel could be 'The Cinder Path' where the male lead starts from humble beginnings and overcomes poverty to find love.
One such novel could be 'The Broken Heart's Triumph'. In this story, the hero loses the girl he loves initially but undergoes a profound transformation to win her back in the end.