Gay romance novels are more than just narratives about relationships between male characters; they are a dynamic exploration of the complexities of love, identity, and societal norms. So why is it so impossible to find gay romance written by male authors?
As part of the wider LGBTQ+ literary spectrum, these novels offer valuable insights into the human condition through the prism of gay experiences, addressing themes of acceptance, conflict, and diversity. They not only cater to the romance aficionados but also challenge and enrich the genre by introducing varied perspectives and emotional depths.
Beyond that, they provide much needed representation of the gay community as main characters rather than sidekicks and disposal friends or love interests. For far too long gay characters have been relegated to the sidelines, first by a lack of inclusion, then as token inclusions as political correctness demanded their presence. The oft-joked about trope that the black guy (or girl) is always the first to die gave way to the ‘gay best friend’ trope that saw gay characters included, but never centre-stage.
Gay romance as a genre has evolved from the needs of readers and the changes we’re seeing in society as a whole as we (hopefully!) become more inclusive and less judgemental. It used to be impossible to find books featuring LGBTQ characters, but now queer protagonists are a (little) less elusive. The genre’s evolution reflects broader cultural shifts toward inclusivity and provides a mirror to the changing dynamics of societal attitudes toward gay relationships. And yet, despite all that progress, it’s still alarmingly tough to find gay romance written by male authors.
As women were frustrated for years that female characters were written (often shallowly!) by men, gay men now face similar issues as many if not most gay romances are penned by women.
The Significance of Authorship in Gay Romance Novels
Identifying gay romance novels written by male authors can be surprisingly challenging, which brings to light significant considerations about representation in literature. The perspective of male authors in crafting these stories is invaluable for authenticity and diversity. After all, the experiences and, sadly, prejudices, experienced by gay men are not the same as those experienced by women of any orientation. And while straight male authors of gay romance may not have the experiences of being gay, they still have the experience of being male. Lesbian authors may have comparable experiences to some extent, but it’s important to acknowledge that there are distinct differences between writing from one’s lived experience and writing about the experiences of another gender. You might argue that to say gay women can write about gay men as well as the men themselves is like saying women need to sit down and stop whining about all the female characters written for men.
Sorry, I meant by men. Because we’ve all read books in which the heroine seems more concerned with inexplicably stroking her hands down her own breasts and considering how sexual she is. And we all know, without looking, those characters were written by men, for the sake of male readers, and not the female audience to represent the female experience.
Gay romance narratives penned by men offer different nuances and a depth of understanding that not only ensures true representation, but also boosts the reader’s engagement and empathy.
Diversifying the voices behind these stories not only broadens the scope of depicted experiences but also deepens the genre’s appeal, allowing for a richer exploration of themes related to gay relationships.
So where are all the gay romance novels written by men?
I’m telling you, finding them is like searching for a fricking unicorn.
The Gay Romance Genre
Before we delve into this a bit further, it’s worth understanding a bit of history. The LGBTQ+ fiction landscape, particularly in the realm of gay romance, has witnessed remarkable growth, reflecting a burgeoning demand for these narratives. The genre’s market presence has strengthened, with sales figures showing a significant uptick—LGBTQ fiction book sales have surged by 39% in just one year, a testament to its rising popularity and acceptance. Novels like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo have (finally) started presenting us with bisexual perspectives, and other LGBTQ narratives have helped the genre break into the mainstream.
The trajectory of gay romance novels in mainstream publishing has mirrored societal transformations. Up until the late 2000s, same-sex romances were scarcely represented by major publishers. This scarcity has been dramatically overturned in recent years. From a near absence before 2010 to widespread acceptance and publication today, every major U.S. publisher now features romances with same-sex couples. This shift is not only a reflection of changing societal norms but also marks a significant step towards inclusivity in the literary world, catering to an increasingly diverse reader base looking for stories that resonate with or reflect their own experiences.
Where Are All The Gay Male Writers?
Despite the increasing prominence of gay romance novels, there is a notable gender disparity among authors within this genre. The overwhelming majority of gay romance narratives are penned by women, even though these stories focus on male/male relationships.
This phenomenon is not just a trivial observation but highlights a significant gap in representation and perspective.
Several factors contribute to this disparity. Market dynamics and reader demographics play pivotal roles. Historically, the readership for gay romance has been predominantly heterosexual women. This audience has influenced the type of content that gets published, with a preference for certain romantic or erotic elements that may not necessarily align with authentic male perspectives on gay relationships. Additionally, the romance publishing industry itself has traditionally seen higher participation rates from female authors, which extends into its subgenres, including gay romance. This trend reflects broader publishing industry patterns where women are more likely to read and write romance, a trend that has shaped the narrative style and focus of the genre as a whole.
The authenticity of voice is crucial, as it affects the depth of character development and the realism of the relationships portrayed. Supporting male authors in the gay romance genre is essential not only for fostering diversity but for enriching the genre with authentic experiences that resonate more deeply with all readers, particularly those seeking reflections of their own lives and challenges.
Gay Romance Written By Male Authors
Yep, I found us some unicorns! While male authors in the gay romance genre are less prevalent, those who contribute bring profound insights and unique narratives that enrich the genre…
Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin
A profound exploration of the complexities of sexuality and identity against the backdrop of societal expectations, offering a raw and powerful exploration of love and betrayal.
What Belongs to You by Garth Greenwell
Known for its lyrical prose and intense emotional depth, this novel offers a modern look at desire, alienation, and the search for connection.
Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman
Celebrated for its beautiful, evocative language and the intense relationship at its core, this novel captures the exhilarating and heartbreaking nuances of first love.
Less by Andrew Sean Greer
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a satirical and tender story about love and loss, filled with humour and a poignant look at the joys and sorrows of love and ageing.
Something Like Summer by Jay Bell
A series that follows the life of Benjamin Bentley and his relationships from high school into adulthood, offering a detailed and enduring look at growth and enduring love over time.
They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
This young adult novel explores the final day of two young men who meet and form a deep connection knowing they only have one day left to live, providing a moving contemplation on mortality and love.
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
A warm, humorous exploration of LGBTQ+ themes in a fantastical setting, this novel is celebrated for its charm, wit, and heartfelt storytelling.
Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan
This novel is a landmark in LGBTQ+ literature for young readers, offering an optimistic depiction of gay teenage love in a supportive community.
Last Summer by Michael Thomas Ford
A contemporary story that captures the essence of gay life and romance, blending humour, emotion, and the complexities of relationships.
Adrien English series by Josh Lanyon
A blend of mystery and romance, this series features a bookseller and amateur sleuth navigating crimes and romantic entanglements.
The Future of Male Authorship in Gay Romance
The potential benefits of increasing male authorship in gay romance are immense. By broadening the spectrum of storytellers, the genre can only become richer and more varied in its storytelling. This diversity would not only enhance the authenticity of the narratives but also expand the genre’s appeal, offering new perspectives and experiences. Encouraging publishers and readers to support and promote novels written by gay men can help balance the narrative scales and provide a platform for voices that need to be heard.
Embracing diversity and authenticity in the authorship of gay romance novels is crucial for the evolution of the genre. As society progresses toward greater inclusivity, so too should the literature that reflects and informs our culture. The future of gay romance lies in celebrating and promoting a diverse range of voices, particularly those that can speak directly to the nuances of gay relationships and identities. By doing so, the genre not only stays relevant but also becomes a powerful tool for cultural reflection and change.
If you’re aware of any unicorns (by which I mean gay romance novels written by men!) I’ve missed off this list PLEASE do tell me, I would dearly love to add more!
