A sense of secrecy or forbidden love is common. Since in many historical and some current contexts, same - sex relationships have faced challenges. This adds an element of tension and 'heat' to the story. For instance, the characters might have to hide their relationship from family or society.
The exploration of intense emotions is a key characteristic. The love, lust, and longing between the characters are often described in great detail. The way they interact physically and emotionally can be very passionate, like in some stories where a simple touch between the two women can convey a world of unspoken feelings.
They often have strong character development. For example, the characters might start as shy or unsure about their feelings but grow to be more confident in their relationship. This evolution makes the story engaging.