Often, these novels are set in grand or aristocratic backdrops. They may feature palaces, balls, and other elements of high society. The relationships in them are complex, as the characters have to deal with not only their feelings for each other but also the expectations and social norms of the royal or upper - class world they inhabit.
Sure. 'Red, White & Royal Blue' is a great one. It's about the relationship between the son of the US president and a British prince. The story is full of humor, political intrigue, and of course, a sweet love story between the two main characters. There's also 'Giovanni's Room' which is a complex exploration of love and identity through the relationship of the main characters in a European - influenced setting.
Often, there is a sense of grandeur and opulence. Royal palaces, elaborate balls, and luxurious lifestyles are common settings and elements. In novels like 'A Court of Thorns and Roses', the faerie courts, which have a royal - like structure, are described with great detail in terms of their magnificent architecture and sumptuous feasts. The lovers are usually in the midst of such grandiosity, which sets the stage for their love story.
The 'Twilight' series by Stephenie Meyer also has elements that can be related to the royal lovers theme. Edward, as a vampire, has an almost 'royal' status within his coven. The intense love story between him and Bella is filled with passion, danger, and a sense of the extraordinary, similar to the grandeur often associated with royal lovers in fiction.
The 'best' gay historical royal fiction is one that can transport the reader to the time period effectively. It should be able to make you feel like you're in the court of a 17th - century French king. The plot needs to be engaging. A story about a secret gay relationship among the royals that has political implications and love - related drama is far more interesting. Also, the way it challenges or conforms to the historical views on homosexuality of that era is important. If it can show how a gay royal overcame the prejudices of his time, it can be very powerful.
Character growth is a key characteristic. The characters start off with negative views of each other. But as the story progresses, they learn to see past their differences. In 'Red, White & Royal Blue', the two main characters grow from being political rivals to lovers, and in the process, they become more understanding and empathetic.
'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' can be considered in this category. Ari and Dante have a complex relationship at first. They don't understand each other but over time, they develop deep feelings for each other. It's a beautifully written novel about friendship evolving into love.
One great example is 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe'. It's not strictly about royalty but has themes of self - discovery in a historical context that can be related to the exploration of gay identity. Another could be 'Maurice' by E. M. Forster which is set in a period - piece England and deals with a gay relationship within the upper - class society which has elements of royalty - adjacent settings. And 'The Song of Achilles' which is based on Greek mythology and has a relationship between two men, and in the context of Greek mythology, there were figures with royal - like status.
The novel 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' also has elements of this trope. Ari and Dante meet and initially don't really understand each other. But over time, their connection deepens into a powerful and loving relationship.
Often, these novels also deal with themes of acceptance, not just of their relationship but also of themselves. Since they start as enemies, they have to overcome their own prejudices. In a gay romance context, this can also be related to coming out and dealing with society's views, which adds depth to the story.