By Hudson Lin (@hudsonlinwrites)
February is the month of romance, and this year, we’re featuring romances by queer male authors. One age-old debate in the world of queer romance—specifically male/male romance where both protagonists are men—is the question of who is allowed to write the stories of queer men.
The vast majority of authors writing m/m romance are women. They’re usually cis, sometimes straight, sometimes queer, but they are still women writing about the experiences of men. And as with other marginalized communities, there is concern that women writing about queer men may detract from queer men writing about their own experiences.
So this month, we are highlighting four queer male authors who are crafting extraordinary romances. Some are fantastical, some are realistic. All are swoon-worthy with guaranteed happily ever afters.
1) Triad Blood by ‘Nathan Burgoine (Bold Strokes Books)
Set in Ottawa, Triad Blood is the first book in ‘Nathan Burgoine’s urban fantasy/romance series featuring a vampire, a demon, and a wizard. All three have been cast out by their own kinds, so they band together for protection, community, and eventually, love. The book and the series explore the ideas of being different, of belonging and chosen family, and of beating the odds when all the cards are stacked against you. With complex characters and intricate world-building, Triad Blood takes you on an adventure where the stakes are high, relationships run deep, and good triumphs over evil.
2) Heartthrob by Noah Steele
Heartthrob by Noah Steele is your quintessential new adult small town romance featuring two college students who are figuring out who they are in the messiest way possible. As they explore their sexuality and venture into uncharted territory, the two protagonists have to challenge not only their own perceptions of their identity, but also the expectations of family and the larger community. Do they conform? Or do they throw caution to the wind and follow their hearts? This low angst, feel-good romance will draw you in and give you all the warm fuzzies you need.
3) Hexes and Foes by CD Rachels
Enemies to lovers might be one of the most popular romance tropes there is. And if you’re a fan, then you should read Hexes and Foes by CD Rachels. Former classroom rivals are all grown up and partnered together in an elite agency tasked with protecting the magical world. They annoy each other to no end, but their sizzling chemistry is impossible to resist. As they fight a new, unparalleled threat, they learn how to move past their history and accept each other for who they are today. Equal parts heartwarming, hilarious, and spicy, this paranormal romance hits all the right notes.
4) Primal Urges by Matthew Dante
If you like your romance dark, then check out Primal Urges, the first book in Matthew Dante’s biker gang series. Chock full of morally gray characters who will stop at nothing to protect the one they love, the book delves into ideas around masculinity and sexuality in traditionally masculine spaces. The story also touches upon intimate partner violence against men, the challenges of starting fresh in a new place, and the importance of found family. With just the right mix of dark, spice, and sweetness, Primal Urges is the perfect escape for a dark romance reader.
The FOLD Admin