these old shades gender bender romance novels

The unique setting in 'These Old Shades' contributes to its uniqueness as a gender bender romance. It's often set in a historical backdrop which adds an extra layer of charm. The characters are well - developed, and the way the gender - bending aspect is woven into the romance makes it stand out.

You might also like 'Sorcery and Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot' by Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer. It's a regency - era fantasy with a touch of romance where the female characters often take on non - traditional roles for the time period, much like in 'These Old Shades'.

One common theme is identity discovery. As the characters change their gender presentation, they often learn more about themselves. For example, they might find new strengths or weaknesses.

One great gender bender romance novel is 'Middlesex' by Jeffrey Eugenides. It tells a complex story that involves elements of gender transformation and family saga. Another is 'The Danish Girl' which is based on the true story of Lili Elbe, exploring themes of identity and love. And 'She's Not There' by Joy Fielding is also a notable one, with its engaging plot of a woman who wakes up in a man's body and the relationships that unfold from there.

Love and attraction are also key themes. The fact that the love interest may be attracted to the character despite their gender masquerade shows that love can be more about the person inside. It challenges the traditional ideas of what attracts people to each other.

Some of the best gender bender novels include 'Tipping the Velvet' by Sarah Waters. It follows the story of a young woman who has a journey of sexual and gender discovery. It shows how she moves from one form of self - expression to another, often defying the norms of her time. 'The Passion' by Jeanette Winterson is also a good one. It features a character who blurs the lines between genders, and the story is filled with beautiful prose and deep exploration of love and identity. Additionally, 'Boy Meets Boy' by David Levithan is a modern take on gender and relationships. It's set in a world where being gay is normal and where characters often play with and subvert traditional gender roles.

The novelty. In historical settings where gender roles were very rigid, seeing a character break those norms in a gender - bender way is exciting. It adds a new layer of complexity to the romance.

The classic 'Twelfth Night' by Shakespeare can also be considered in a way. Viola disguises herself as a man, Cesario, and there are complex romantic entanglements. It has been adapted into many forms, and reading the original play gives a great taste of a gender - bender romance in a historical context.

The concept of transformation is also key. Just as ashes can be transformed in the wind, the characters go through a transformation when they change their gender roles. This transformation affects not only their relationships but also their place in society. And in the romance aspect, it can lead to a more profound and unique connection between the characters as they witness and are part of each other's growth.

Well, one characteristic is the subversion of traditional gender roles. For example, a female character might take on a typically male - dominated role like a powerful leader or a skilled warrior. Another is the exploration of different gender identities. It can make readers think about how gender is constructed in society and in fiction.