Another characteristic is a strong focus on the romantic relationship. It's not just about the sexual aspect. The characters usually have a deep emotional connection. In "Bared to You", the main characters' love for each other is as important as their physical relationship. They have to deal with their own insecurities and past traumas while being in love.
Well, smut manga typically features a lot of sexual imagery and scenarios. Regular manga, on the other hand, can be about anything from superheroes to school life and doesn't focus mainly on sexual themes. The main difference is the emphasis on sexuality in smut manga.
One example could be 'Love Hina'. It has a great story about a young man and his relationships with various female characters in a boarding house. There are some romantic and comical situations that border on the more 'smutty' side at times. The character development and the overall plot of the protagonist trying to find his place and love make it engaging.
The plot itself should be engaging. It can't just be a series of sexual scenes. Take 'Nana' for instance. It has a story about two girls named Nana who are on different paths in life. There are some romantic and passionate relationships in it. The overall plot about their friendship, career aspirations, and love lives holds the story together, and the 'smutty' elements are just part of the bigger picture of the characters' lives.
Another is "Bared to You" by Sylvia Day. This novel also delves into the passionate relationship between two main characters. It has a similar theme of intense attraction and a relationship filled with steamy scenes and emotional turmoil. The characters are well - developed, and the story line keeps readers engaged.