Another notable one is 'Giovanni's Room' by James Baldwin. Although not strictly a traditional vampire romance, it has elements of forbidden love and the exploration of identity in a way that can be related to the genre. The story is set in Paris and delves deep into the main character's struggle with his feelings for another man.
One great 'gay vampire romance fanfiction' is 'Blood and Roses'. It has a really engaging plot where the vampire character has a complex personality and the relationship development between him and his male love interest is beautifully written.
One characteristic is the exploration of forbidden love. Since vampires are often seen as outsiders, their gay relationships add an extra layer of taboo. Another is the blend of the supernatural and the romantic. For example, the immortality of vampires can create unique relationship dynamics.
I think 'Twilight' is a must - mention. It became a huge phenomenon and introduced a lot of readers to the vampire romance genre. The love story between Bella and Edward is very intense. There's also 'Interview with the Vampire' which is more of a dark and brooding exploration of vampirism and love. It gives a different perspective compared to more mainstream vampire romances.
Another good one is 'Giovanni's Room' by James Baldwin. While not strictly a vampire story in the traditional sense, it has elements of the dark and the 'other' that can be associated with vampire fiction. It's a beautifully written exploration of love, identity, and homosexuality.
The 'Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter' series by Laurell K. Hamilton has elements of gay vampire romance among other complex relationships. It's a long - running series with a lot of supernatural elements and different kinds of romances.
Well, first, they often have a rich historical setting. For example, they might be set in Victorian England or some other period with a distinct social and cultural flavor. Second, the vampire element brings in the supernatural. Vampires are often depicted as alluring yet dangerous. And of course, the gay romance aspect adds a unique layer. It can show relationships that were often hidden or taboo in the historical periods they are set in, exploring themes of love, acceptance, and the struggle against society's norms.
Another one to consider is 'The Gilda Stories' by Jewelle Gomez. It tells the story of a black lesbian vampire, but also has elements of historical exploration and themes that can be related to gay vampire historical romances in terms of the supernatural and relationship building over time.
Stephenie Meyer's 'Twilight' series is a very popular one. It's mainly a love story between a human girl, Bella, and a vampire, Edward. The series is filled with the tension and longing that comes with their forbidden love. The vampire world Meyer created has its own rules and the relationship between the two main characters is central to the story.
Another excellent choice is 'A Discovery of Witches' by Deborah Harkness. Diana Bishop, a witch, falls in love with Matthew Clairmont, a vampire. The novel combines elements of history, magic, and romance. It takes the reader on a journey through time and different cultures while exploring the relationship between the two main characters.