Many of these novels feature vivid settings. Take 'Boy Meets Boy' for instance. It's set in a very accepting high - school environment which is quite different from the usual high - school settings in many other novels. This unique setting allows for a different exploration of gay relationships, free from the typical bullying and ostracism often associated with the topic in other works.
Many in the list, such as 'Love is Love', are inclusive. They bring together different voices and perspectives within the gay community. The art in these novels can range from highly detailed and realistic to more simplistic and stylized, but all serve to enhance the storytelling. They might also use color in interesting ways. For instance, warm colors could be used to represent love and connection.
Some of them focus on complex relationships. For example, in 'Me Before You', the relationship between the two main characters is not just about love but also about sacrifice and self - discovery. The female character grows a lot through her time with the disabled man.
One characteristic is the cultural clash. The Amish way of life is very traditional and conservative, so a gay relationship goes against their norms. Another is the setting, often in rural Amish communities with beautiful landscapes. And there's usually a strong theme of love conquering all, despite the difficulties.
One characteristic is the exploration of same - sex relationships. These novels often focus on the unique challenges and joys that gay couples face, such as coming out, acceptance by family and society. For example, in many novels, the characters have to deal with homophobia in different forms.
In 'Jane Eyre', the strong - willed and independent nature of the protagonist is a key feature. Her love for Mr. Rochester is based on mutual understanding and respect despite their differences. In 'Sense and Sensibility', the contrast between the two sisters' approaches to love, with one being more sensible and the other more emotional, is a main characteristic.
Many of them have complex characters. For example, in 'Me Before You', the main characters have very different outlooks on life at first. The female lead is very positive while the male lead is rather cynical due to his situation. This contrast makes their relationship development interesting.
Some of these novels often have a bit of conflict to drive the story. Take 'Romeo and Juliet' for instance. The feud between their families is a huge obstacle to their love. This conflict creates a lot of drama and tension throughout the story, making it both tragic and interesting.
The characters in gay fantasy romance novels are often complex. They have to deal with not only the normal challenges of a fantasy adventure like fighting monsters or solving mysteries but also the internal and external challenges related to their sexual identity. The settings can be very diverse, from a medieval - like world full of knights and magic to a modern - day world with a touch of the supernatural. And the romances are intense. The connection between the two male characters is often described in a way that makes the reader really feel the passion and the love, like in 'Red, White & Royal Blue' where the political backdrop adds an extra layer of tension and excitement to the relationship.
New gay romance novels often feature more diverse characters. They may include characters from different ethnic backgrounds, different social classes, etc. For example, some novels might have a gay character who is also an immigrant, adding another layer of complexity to the story.
Good gay romance novels often have well - developed characters. The protagonists need to be complex and relatable, with their own hopes, fears, and dreams. For example, in 'Call Me by Your Name', Elio is a young man full of passion and confusion about his feelings, which makes him very real to readers.