The exploration of themes is key. In 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe', themes like identity, family acceptance, and first love are explored in a profound way. This kind of in - depth exploration of important themes elevates a gay romance novel to be among the best.
The setting can play a big role. A gay romance novel set in a unique or interesting place, like a small European town or a big city during a festival, can add a lot to the story. The plot also matters. It could be a simple love story or one with a lot of twists and turns. For instance, a story about two men from different social classes falling in love can be really engaging. And of course, the writing style. If it's too flowery or too dry, it might not be the 'best gay for you'. A balanced and engaging writing style is what makes a novel stand out.
First, the connection between the gay characters has to be strong. It should be something that readers can root for. In 'They Both Die at the End', the bond between the two male characters is so pure and full of hope despite the impending doom. Second, the horror has to be more than just jump scares. It should be something that seeps into the bones of the story. For a gay horror romance, it might be the horror of society's rejection of their relationship in addition to the more traditional horror elements like the supernatural. This combination of relationship - centric and horror - centric elements makes a novel the best in this genre.
A great high school gay novel is often one that can break stereotypes. It doesn't just focus on the fact that the character is gay but also on their other aspects like their dreams, their friendships with all kinds of people. Take 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' again. Ari is not just defined by his sexual orientation. He has a complex family situation and his own set of insecurities. Also, the writing style matters. If it's engaging and easy to read, like 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda', it can draw in more readers. And if it can teach something about acceptance and love in a high school setting, like all of these novels do in different ways, it becomes one of the best.
A great mob romance novel often has a strong, complex male lead. For example, in many of these novels, the male character is a powerful figure in the mob, with a dark and mysterious side. This creates a sense of danger and allure.
A great teen romance novel often has relatable characters. Teens need to see themselves or someone they know in the characters. For example, in 'The Fault in Our Stars', Hazel and Augustus are complex and real, making readers care about their relationship. Also, a good plot is key. It should have the right amount of drama, like in 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' with its letter - sending mishap that sets off a chain of romantic events. And the writing style matters. If it's engaging and easy to read, like in 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda', it can really draw readers in.
A strong emotional connection between the characters is key. For example, in 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Bronte, the intense, almost obsessive love between Heathcliff and Catherine makes it a heartbreaking romance. Their love is thwarted by social class and pride, leading to a cycle of revenge and despair.
A great mystery romance novel often has a strong plot. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the mystery of what happened to Amy is so gripping. The characters also need to be well - developed. In 'The Rosie Project', the main character's quirks make the story interesting. And there has to be a good balance between the mystery and the romance. If it's too much mystery, it might overshadow the romance, and vice versa.
A great plot is key. For example, in 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne, the enemies - to - lovers plot is well - executed. The constant banter and the slow - burn of their relationship make it engaging. Good character development is also important. In 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte, Jane is a strong and complex character, and her relationship with Mr. Rochester is full of depth.
The writing style also matters a great deal. A good author can create a sensual atmosphere with words. In 'Nine and a Half Weeks' (the novel that inspired the movie), the author uses a very descriptive and evocative writing style to bring out the erotic and romantic elements, making it a memorable read.
Unconventional settings can make a gay romance novel 'weird'. For example, if it's set in a post - apocalyptic world where the rules of society are completely different and the relationship has to develop within those strange new rules. Another factor could be the characters themselves. If they have very unique personalities or abilities that are not commonly found in typical romance characters, like one character being able to see the future and how that affects their relationship.