MM romance covers a wide range of themes and settings, but the central element is exploring a romantic and sexual relationship between men. Like all romance novels, the primary focus is on the romantic relationship between the main characters. The stories typically revolve around their emotional journey towards finding love and happiness with each other. They are set in various contexts, from contemporary, historical, and fantasy to science fiction settings. This allows for a wide range of storytelling and exploring different social, cultural, and imaginative environments.
These novels contribute to the representation of LGBTQ+ relationships and experiences in literature. They focus on the nuances of gay relationships, addressing issues like coming out, societal acceptance, and the dynamics specific to relationships between men. Moreover, you see deep character development, exploring their protagonists’ complexities, struggles, and joys. This can include dealing with internal and external conflicts related to their sexual orientation, personal growth, and relationship dynamics.
As an avid reader and a passionate advocate for diversity in literature, I have found myself drawn to MM romance novels. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of MM romance novels, exploring their rise in popularity, the diversity and representation they bring to the literary landscape, the various subgenres within the genre, the themes they explore, their impact on readers, and even some recommendations for those looking to dive into this captivating genre.
15 Best MM Romance Novels (Male-Male Relationship)
One of the most compelling aspects of MM romance novels is the diversity and representation they bring to the literary world. These books go beyond the traditional romance narrative and provide a platform for exploring relationships that transcend gender norms and societal expectations.
Now, I will discuss the 15 best MM (male-male/gay) romance novels. They provide insights into the lives, challenges, and joys of gay relationships. This will broaden your understanding and empathy towards diverse experiences and perspectives, enriching your worldview. Let’s begin!
| Name | Storyline | Tropes |
|---|---|---|
| Us by Sarina Bowen | The complexities of love and relationships in the backdrop of professional sports. | Friends-to-lovers, secret relationship, sports romance, coming out, gay romance, relationship challenges, fame and privacy, emotional vulnerability, character growth, teamwork, overcoming adversity. |
| Damaged Like Us by Krista Ritchie | The intricacies of forbidden love amidst the pressures of fame and family legacy. | Forbidden romance, celebrity life, bodyguard-client relationship, LGBTQ+ themes, family dynamics, emotional healing, personal growth, wealth and privilege, secrets and revelations, loyalty and trust, internal conflicts. |
| Try by Ella Frank | A passionate relationship between two men, challenging their previous understandings of love and desire. | Gay romance, self-discovery, erotic exploration, unexpected attraction, emotional vulnerability, sexual awakening, overcoming past traumas, identity struggles, internal conflict, passion and intimacy, personal growth. |
| Henri by Ella Frank | A story about finding love and self-acceptance, revolving around the life of a charming and charismatic bartender. | LGBTQ+ romance, bartender-client dynamic, self-discovery, age gap, emotional healing, overcoming past pain, sensuality and passion, character growth, acceptance and belonging, trust and vulnerability, community support. |
| Aced by Ella Frank | A blooming romance between a famous actor and a model, facing the challenges of fame, public scrutiny, and personal insecurities. | Celebrity romance, gay love story, Hollywood setting, media and public pressure, coming out, age difference, emotional vulnerability, fame and privacy issues, overcoming insecurities, personal growth, resilience. |
| Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid | A passionate and complex story of a secret romance between two rival professional hockey players. | Enemies-to-lovers, sports romance, secret relationship, gay romance, professional rivalry, emotional vulnerability, sexual tension, hidden feelings, personal growth, overcoming societal expectations, dual perspectives. |
| A Seditious Affair by KJ Charles | A historical romance that intertwines a clandestine relationship with political intrigue in Regency-era England. | Historical romance, forbidden love, class differences, BDSM elements, political conflict, secret identities, intellectual debates, emotional complexity, societal norms, personal sacrifice, moral dilemmas. |
| The Lightning-Struck Heart by TJ Klune | A whimsical and humorous fantasy adventure, centered around a young wizard’s journey of love, magic, and self-discovery. | Fantasy romance, gay love story, comedic elements, magical adventure, wizards and mythical creatures, young adult themes, hero’s journey, unrequited love, friendship dynamics, coming-of-age, quest and adventure. |
| Captive Prince by C. S. Pacat | A gripping tale of political intrigue, power struggles, and unexpected romance set in a complex, alternate medieval world. | Enemies-to-lovers, political intrigue, master-servant dynamic, LGBTQ+ themes, power play, moral ambiguity, captivity narrative, cultural differences, strategic maneuvering, royal intrigue, character evolution. |
| Rule Breaker by Lily Morton | A contemporary romance about challenging workplace norms and finding love where it’s least expected, set in the high-stakes world of corporate London. | Office romance, enemies-to-lovers, gay romance, humor and banter, age gap, emotional vulnerability, overcoming personal barriers, workplace dynamics, power imbalance, character growth, breaking societal norms. |
| Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston | A charming and heartfelt story exploring a secret romance between the First Son of the United States and a British prince, blending politics, duty, and love. | Enemies-to-lovers, LGBTQ+ romance, political backdrop, royal and celebrity dynamics, secret relationship, cultural differences, coming-of-age, humor, public scrutiny, personal growth, national identity. |
| Hot Head by Damon Suede | A contemporary romance about Brooklyn firefighter Griff Muir, who struggles with his feelings for his best friend and firefighting partner, Dante Anastagio, in a setting where such feelings are complicated. | Internal conflict, forbidden love, firefighting backdrop, best friends to lovers, emotional journey, self-discovery, societal norms, professional camaraderie, bravery, personal growth, urban setting, overcoming obstacles, secret feelings, friendship dynamics. |
| Kidnapped by the Pirate by Keira Andrews | A May-December gay romance featuring a tough alpha pirate and a plucky virgin captive, evolving from enemies to lovers. | Alpha pirate, virgin captive, enemies to lovers, age difference (May-December romance), first-time sexual discovery, forbidden love, high seas adventure, emotional growth, power dynamics, historical setting, overcoming societal norms, hidden desires, personal liberation. |
| True Colors by Anyta Sunday | A poignant exploration of love, friendship, and self-acceptance, centered around the complex relationship between two childhood friends. | Friends-to-lovers, gay romance, childhood friends, emotional healing, coming out, second chance romance, small-town setting, character growth, overcoming past trauma, self-discovery, family dynamics. |
| Heat Stroke by Tessa Bailey | A steamy, contemporary romance that delves into the intense and evolving relationship between two lifeguards during a sizzling summer. | Workplace romance, friends-to-lovers, age difference, summer fling, emotional vulnerability, sexual tension, character development, coming-of-age, mentor-protégé dynamic, overcoming personal barriers, beach setting. |
1. Us (Him)
This was about two boys, Ryan and Jamie. They had been friends and went to hockey camp together. Then, one night, they get drunk, and things go too far. Ryan realizes that he’s gay. So, he breaks up their friendship and never talks to Jamie. But Jamie is also gay. A few years later, Ryan runs back into Jamie. Jamie asked him, Why did you stop being my friend?
Ryan admits that he liked that night, that they went too far together, and he was worried that he’d ruin their friendship. Then Jamie appreciated his feelings. It was consensual. So they become friends again. Jamie starts to have feelings for Ryan, and Ryan is worried that Jamie wants to fool around with him. It starts a whole homosexual relationship that is awesome. So, it gave me warm and fuzzy feelings and started me down a rabbit hole.
Author: Sarina Bowen
Average Rating: 4.7/5
Category: Contemporary Sports Romance
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Hardcover | Kindle | Audio CD
2. Damaged Like Us (Like Us)
The story deals with Maximoff and his bodyguard, Farrow. Maximoff has been in love with Farrow for a while. They are already both gay when it starts. Farrow gets reassigned to be the bodyguard, and Maximoff is like, I’m in love with this guy and going to have to be around him all the time. Also, Farrow likes him and is willing to push it, even though it’s against the rules.
They’re super attracted to each other, and they go for it. This MLM romance book led to other books in the series, too. I discovered it’s a sequel to another series I’ve started. They give me all the feelings, so you should check them out.
Author: Krista Ritchie
Average Rating: 4.4/5
Category: Family Fiction & Romance
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle | Audio CD
3. Try (Temptation)
This book is about Logan Mitchell and Tate Morrison. Tate is straight, divorced his wife, and things suck. He’s a bartender at this bar. On the other hand, Logan works for the firm that handled his divorce but is on his wife’s side. He comes in and thinks Tate is a fine hunk of a man, and he starts to pursue him.
So, Logan is a little bit bossy and pushy personally. He’s pushing Tate into this, but Tate is asked if he wants to continue every step of the way. So, it ends up being a good story. The book is a bit controversial because it is called Try. Logan is trying to get Tate to give him a try. There are six books in this series, so check them out.
Author: Ella Frank
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Category: LGBTQ+ Literature & Fiction
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle | Audio CD
4. Henri (Confessions)
Henri had been in love with Logan for a long time. They grew up together in a dangerous situation. But he and Logan stayed friends as benefits when they were older. Logan fell in love with Julien. Logan’s with tape with a priest. His name is Joel. So Henri is depressed when these guys get married, and they invite Henri. Bailey is a police officer who also stays at this marriage party.
Henri is from the wrong side of the tracks, but these two are instantly attracted. It’s so beautiful because it’s one of those where there aren’t a ton of obstacles in the way. But there is a lot of stuff in their way based on who they are. Nothing is keeping them apart. So, it was a beautiful gay romance.
Author: Ella Frank
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Category: Mystery & Crime Fiction, Erotica
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle
5. Aced (PresLocke)
The main character’s name is Ace Locke, and the guy’s name is Dylan Prescott. Ace’s been gay his whole life. He’s had a beard and covered girlfriends. Then we have Dylan, an up-and-coming model, and he gets a part in Ace’s newest movie. It’s a war movie, and he has loved Ace forever. Ace almost runs Dylan over with his car, hops out, and he’s all pissed off. Then he sees that Dylan is the model from the poster he’s been staring at every day for two months and is obsessed with.
So, these two are completely in love with the other’s actions, and one loves the other’s body. They start this relationship even though they try to fight it. Ace has come out but isn’t ready to have a boyfriend because it could ruin his career. Dylan is so in love and doesn’t want to do anything to mess it up. They are such sexy and sweet people.
Author: Ella Frank
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Category: Contemporary M M Romance
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle
6. Heated Rivalry (Game Changers)
This is the second book in the Game Changers series, all gay hockey romances. However, they can all be read as standalone as they’re not so much a series as they are loosely interconnected stories within the same wider hockey world. It is a hate-to-love romance that spans about ten years and focuses on famous hockey rivals Ilya Rozanov and Shane Hollander. These two have been rivals since their working years on their respective teams. But they’ve also been battling a very intense pull towards each other since very early.
The story explores how these two negotiate their blossoming relationship within the wider context of the hockey world. Rachel Reid is a wonderful author. She is great at imbuing emotion in the simplest of sentences and phrases and does a good job illustrating these two separate characters. They’re very different. Ilya is very bold and outspoken, whereas Shane is much more sensible. But there is so much heat and rivalry when they come together.
Author: Rachel Reid
Average Rating: 4.7/5
Category: Sports Romance
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle
7. A Seditious Affair (Society of Gentlemen)
This is the second book within the Society of Gentlemen series. Charles writes many LGBT+ romances, specifically historical romances set across varying periods from the Regency to the Victorian era. In this book, the two main characters are a radical bookseller named Silas and a politician named Dominic.
In ironic contrast to his name, Dom ends up being dominated, which is how they come together in a sexual relationship. But they end up finding their political discussions and debates deeply rewarding. So romance begins to tentatively blossom between them despite operating on completely different rungs of society and political realms. It’s a romance that should not work. Yet the two men treat each other with such genuine respect and interest that it does.
Author: KJ Charles
Average Rating: 4.5/5
Category: Historical Romance
Available: Audiobook | Kindle | MP3 CD
8. The Lightning-Struck Heart (Tales From Verania)
This parody comedic fantasy focuses on a young wizard’s apprentice named Sam of Wilds, who must go on a quest to retrieve the prince of his kingdom. He is also engaged to the very dashing and immaculate Sir Ryan Foxheart. While this story sounds like a very typical fantasy setup, it’s anything. But Sam’s two sidekicks are a gay unicorn named Gary and Tiggy’s emotional giant.
While the world operates in that typical pseudo-European medieval world, they use modern language and phrases. So, that tells you a lot about the language that is being used throughout this book. Author Klune has dirty and cheeky humor, focusing on puns and rudeness.
Author: TJ Klune
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Category: LGBTQ+ Literature & Fiction
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle
9. Captive Prince
Captive Prince Trilogy is one of my favorite series of all time. It follows Damen, who is the prince of a Pseudo-Greek kingdom. After the death of Damen’s father, Damen’s half-brother seizes power across to the enemy kingdom disguised as a sex slave to the Prince of Laurent. It creates huge chaos, and Damen is responsible for overcoming this issue.
This trilogy is a master when it comes to perspective. The romance that develops between our two mains is the slow burn. It is one of the most emotionally rich and rewarding love stories I’ve ever read. If you like historical MM romance, then try this.
Author: C. S. Pacat
Average Rating: 4.4/5
Category: Erotic Fiction
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle | Audio CD
10. Rule Breaker (Mixed Messages)
Lily Morton is one of the famous rom-com authors. She started in fiction but now writes almost exclusively romantic comedies, and all her books have such delightfully British humor. Rule Breaker follows Dylan, whose snarky banter is characterized by her relationship with his boss, Gabe. Dylan has long since decided that his crush on Gabe has only casual relationships and doesn’t commit to anything.
Throughout the book, these two men find themselves drawn to each other. It is charm personified from the first-person perspective of Dylan, who is delightfully cheeky to the icy exterior of Gabe. It’s pitch-perfect, and I recommend this to any rom-com lover.
Author: Lily Morton
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Category: Adult Fiction, Gay Romance
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle
11. Red, White & Royal Blue
The story follows a fictional person from the United States who has to fabricate a media friendship with the Prince of England. They slowly develop into a genuine friendship and maybe more. Casey McQuiston writes such pitch-perfect dialogue and internal monologues. She has this wonderful writing style.
This book is a very cute gay romcom. It also looks deeper into the political systems of the UK and the USA and how they’re perpetuating silence surrounding sexuality. Also, it presents this lovely vision of what the future could be if everyone were a little bit more accepting.
Author: Casey McQuiston
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Category: Romantic Comedy
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Library Binding | Kindle
12. Hot Head (Head)
This book deals with Griff Muir, a firefighter during nine-eleven, alongside Dante’s best friend. Griff has had feelings for Dante for years but represses them quite heavily, knowing that it probably wouldn’t be accepted within their community. But he can no longer avoid his feelings when Dante approaches him and asks Griff to perform some pornographic scenes with him for a sex website called Hot Head.
I wasn’t sure how Damon Suede (author) would write such a fabricated situation as acting in porn and make it romantic. Yet he manages to do it extremely well. You are always aware that while these two are acting up for the cameras, there is a deep current of emotion underneath it. Beyond that, the mediation on how many men and women within the services have felt the need to cover up their sexuality is a very emotional one to read about.
Author: Damon Suede
Average Rating: 4.4/5
Category: Adult Fiction
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Hardcover | Kindle | Mass Market Paperback
13. Kidnapped by the Pirate
We have Nathaniel Bainbridge, who is being shipped to a colony to marry a woman. He is very aware of his sexuality because he has only ever been interested in men romantically or sexually. But he also knows there is no way his father or wider society would accept this. So he’s kept it quiet and is resigned to his fate on the overseas journey to this colony.
However, the ship is overtaken by pirates led by Captain Hawk, who takes Nathaniel hostage as revenge on his father, with whom the Captain has a very dark history. It’s deeply romantic and is infused with interesting historical detail.
Author: Keira Andrews
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Category: Sea Adventure Fiction, LGBTQ+ Romance
Available: Audiobook | Paperback | Kindle | Audio CD
14. True Colors (True Love)
Anyta Sunday is better known for her Signs of Love series, romantic comedies based on zodiac signs. But True Colors remains my favorite one of hers, despite being a more angsty and emotional read. It follows Marco and Oskar, who are childhood best friends. Oskar said something deeply betrayed Marco’s trust and scarred his self-esteem for years.
Following that event, Marco essentially cut Oskar out of his life for years, which was made easier because Osckar moved away for university. But at the start of this novel, Oskar is back, and Marco is forced to engage with him as they are both involved in the plays his father puts on annually to honor the death of Marco’s mother. This book is a deeply emotional read. Marco has severe burns covering his skin due to the accident that killed his mother, and his self-esteem and self-image are something he grapples with throughout the entire book.
Author: Anyta Sunday
Average Rating: 4.2/5
Category: Academic Romance
Available: Paperback | Kindle
15. Heat Stroke (Beach Kingdom)
Author Tessa Bailey is primarily known as an M/F romance author. She only has two romances in her entire romance. This book is the second book in her Beach Kingdom series, which revolves around the three Prince brothers attempting to run a beach bar during the busy summer months. The protagonists of this one are the middle brothers, Jamie Prince and Marcus.
Marcus is a lifeguard and bouncer at the bar. In contrast, Jamie has wholly embraced his identity as a gay man following a horrific act of violence against him a few years before the start of the series. Marcus is buckling under the weight of expectations and toxic masculinity. He comes from a male-only household, and he has never felt able to explore his sexuality.
Despite this, from the second, Marcus meets Jamie. He follows the man around an adoring puppy and is fascinated by everything Jamie does. Also, the two of them embark on this tentative but beautiful male-male romance that is so lovely to read.
Author: Tessa Bailey
Average Rating: 4.6/5
Category: New Adult & College Romance
Available: Paperback
5 Steamy MM Romance Books
Steamy MM (Male-Male) romance books are popular for their passionate and intense romantic narratives. Here are five highly recommended steamy MM romance novels that offer compelling storytelling and heated romance:
“Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston – This novel presents a charming and steamy romance between the First Son of the United States and the Prince of Wales. Known for its witty dialogue and heartwarming narrative, it blends emotional depth, humor, and sizzling chemistry.
“Captive Prince” by C.S. Pacat – This is the first book in a trilogy that starts with a prince being sent as a slave to an enemy kingdom and gradually unfolds into an intense and complex romantic relationship. The series is popular for its intricate plot, rich world-building, and steamy moments.
“Him” by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy – A contemporary sports romance between two former friends turned lovers, set in college hockey. The book is praised for its engaging characters, emotional depth, and passionate romance.
“Call Me By Your Name” by André Aciman – This beautifully written novel explores the budding romance between a seventeen-year-old Italian-American boy and a visiting American scholar. It’s popular for its evocative prose, emotional intensity, and sensual scenes.
“The Deal” by Elle Kennedy – Although primarily an MF (Male-Female) romance, this book is part of the “Off-Campus” series that includes “The Understatement of the Year,” which is a steamy MM romance. The series is acclaimed for its engaging characters, college sports setting, and hot romance scenes.
5 Possessive MM Romance Books
Possessive themes in MM (Male-Male) romance novels involve intense, passionate relationships where at least one character displays strong, protective, and sometimes dominant traits. Here are five MM romance novels that feature possessive themes:
“The Alpha’s Warlock” by Eliot Grayson – This novel is part of the “Mismatched Mates” series and features a dynamic between a powerful alpha and a warlock. The alpha character in this story is notably possessive and protective, creating a tension-filled and passionate narrative.
“Axel’s Pup” by Kim Dare – As part of the “Werewolves & Dragons” series, this book explores a human and a werewolf relationship. The werewolf character exhibits classic possessive alpha traits, adding depth and intensity to their relationship.
“Omega’s Fate” by Wolf Specter and Rosa Swann – This story centers around an omega in a relationship with a possessive alpha. The novel shows destiny, control, and passionate love in a paranormal setting.
“His Consort” by Mary Calmes – This novel features a human involved in the world of vampires. The vampire character is possessive and protective, leading to a steamy and intense romance with a unique supernatural twist.
“Captive Prince” by C.S. Pacat – Although not a traditional possessive romance, this series features complex dynamics between the two male leads, with themes of power, control, and intense emotional and physical connections that evolve.
5 Enemies to Lovers MM Romance Books
“Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston – This novel features the son of the President of the United States and the Prince of Wales. They are initially rivals and forced to spend time together and eventually develop a deep bond, turning their animosity into a secret and passionate romance.
“The Soldier’s Scoundrel” by Cat Sebastian – Set in Regency England, this historical romance pairs a gentleman and a criminal who initially distrust each other. As they work together, their mutual animosity turns into attraction and love.
“Wolfsong” by TJ Klune – In this paranormal romance, an intense relationship develops between a werewolf and a human who initially dislike each other. Their journey from enemies to lovers is set against a backdrop of family, loyalty, and supernatural elements.
“Hate to Want You” by Alisha Rai – While not exclusively MM (it features both MM and MF relationships), this book has a compelling enemies-to-lovers storyline involving complex family dynamics and a long-standing feud that complicates the protagonists’ relationship.
“The Magpie Lord” by K.J. Charles – This historical fantasy novel combines magic, mystery, and a romance between a lord and a magician. Initially, they are at odds due to their different backgrounds and beliefs, but their mutual disdain turns into a deep, passionate connection.
5 MM Fantasy Romance Books
“The Captive Prince Trilogy” by C.S. Pacat – This trilogy, starting with “Captive Prince,” is set in a fantasy world reminiscent of historical empires. It follows the complex and intense relationship between two princes from rival kingdoms.
“Wolfsong” by TJ Klune – A poignant and beautifully written story that combines fantasy with a deeply emotional romance. It’s a tale of werewolves, family, and the unbreakable bonds that form between the main characters, offering a mix of action, drama, and heartwarming moments.
“The Magpie Lord” by K.J. Charles – Set in a Victorian-era inspired world with magic, this book introduces a dangerous lord and a magician who comes to his aid. Their initially antagonistic relationship evolves amidst a backdrop of mystery and magical peril.
“Lord of the White Hell” by Ginn Hale – This two-part series is set in a unique fantasy world and follows a young man sent to an academy where he meets a noble feared for his mystical powers. The story is a blend of romance, magic, and coming-of-age themes.
“The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller – Though not a traditional romance novel, this book retells the story of Achilles and Patroclus, offering a deeply moving and romantic interpretation of their relationship set against the backdrop of the Trojan War. It’s a blend of historical fiction and mythological fantasy.
5 MM Mafia Romance Books
“The Hitman’s Guide to Making Friends and Finding Love” by Alice Winters – This novel blends humor with romance in a mafia setting. It follows a hitman who unexpectedly falls for a man whose life he was supposed to end, leading to a quirky and suspenseful romantic journey.
“A Righteous Man” by Jaime Reese – Set in the world of the Russian mafia, this story revolves around two men from vastly different worlds. Their paths cross unexpectedly, leading to a dangerous but passionate romance fraught with challenges and secrets.
“Santino: The Sinner’s Series” by Serena Akeroyd – This book is part of a series that delves into the lives and loves within a mafia family. The story features intense characters, high-stakes drama, and a steamy romance between two powerful men entrenched in the mafia world.
“Guns n’ Boys” by K.A. Merikan – This series is popular for its dark themes and intense relationships. It follows the lives and tumultuous romance of two men deeply involved in the mafia, combining elements of danger, passion, and loyalty.
“Criminal Intentions: Season One, Episode One” by Cole McCade – Though not strictly a mafia romance, this series features a criminal profiler and a homicide detective who team up to solve crimes. Their relationship evolves amidst a backdrop of suspense and intrigue, with a tension-filled romantic undertone.
5 MM Historical Romance Books
“The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue” by Mackenzi Lee – Set in the 18th century, this novel follows a young British lord embarking on a Grand Tour of Europe with his best friend (and secret crush). It’s a tale of adventure, historical detail, and a heartfelt romance.
“The Soldier’s Scoundrel” by Cat Sebastian – A Regency-era romance between a gentleman and a thief. The story weaves elements of mystery, societal constraints of the time, and the developing love between two men from very different worlds.
“The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller – Although not a traditional romance novel, this book beautifully reimagines the relationship between Achilles and Patroclus, set against the backdrop of the Trojan War. It’s a mix of historical fiction, mythological fantasy, and romance.
“Hither, Page” by Cat Sebastian – This novel is a post-World War II romance involving a doctor and a spy in a small English village. The story combines historical fiction, mystery, and a slowly unfolding romance.
“The Magpie Lord” by K.J. Charles – Set in Victorian England, this book mixes romance, magic, and mystery. It follows a lord and a magician who initially clash but gradually develop a deep, passionate connection amid magical dangers.
5 MM Shifter Romance Books
“Wolfsong” by TJ Klune – This novel is a deeply emotional and beautifully written story about werewolves. It focuses on the relationship between a young man and a werewolf, exploring themes of family, belonging, and the transformative power of love.
“Omega’s Pack” by D.J. Heart – Part of the “Mated to the Alpha” series, this book explores the dynamics within a werewolf pack. It combines romance and drama, focusing on the relationships between the pack members and their romantic interests.
“Axel’s Pup” by Kim Dare – Set in a world where werewolves and humans coexist, this story focuses on the relationship between humans and dominant werewolves.
“The Alpha’s Warlock” by Eliot Grayson – This novel blends magic and shifter themes. It features a romance between a warlock and a werewolf alpha, with suspense, humor, and emotional depth.
“Jumping In” by Cardeno C. – A short and sweet story about a shifter finding his mate in an unexpected place. The novel is part of the “ALPHAS” series and is popular for its heartwarming romance and engaging narrative.
5 MM Sports Romance Books
“Him” by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy – Set in college hockey, this novel follows two former friends who reconnect at a summer training camp. Their rekindled friendship soon turns into a deeper, romantic relationship.
“The Understatement of the Year” by Sarina Bowen – Also part of the Ivy Years series, this book focuses on two hockey players at Harkness College. It explores themes of coming out, acceptance, and the complexities of a secret relationship in the competitive world of college sports.
“Illegal Contact” by Santino Hassell – Part of the Barons series, this novel centers around a professional football player under house arrest and his relationship with his assistant. It’s a story of unexpected love with a good balance of sports and romance.
“Running with Lions” by Julian Winters – This young adult novel explores the dynamics of a high school soccer team. It focuses on the blooming romance between two teammates, balancing the excitement of sports with the complexities of teenage love and identity.
“Heated Rivalry” by Rachel Reid – A hockey romance that follows the relationship between two rival players from competing teams. Their on-ice animosity hides a secret, passionate affair that spans years.
5 MM Military Romance Books
“Beyond the Sea” by Keira Andrews – This novel tells the story of two men, a Navy SEAL and a Marine, stranded on a deserted island. Their struggle for survival leads to a deep emotional and physical connection, exploring themes of isolation, resilience, and unexpected love.
“Out of Uniform” series by Annabeth Albert – This series features various stories about military men finding love. Each book explores different aspects of military life and the unique challenges faced in forming and maintaining romantic relationships in this environment.
“At Attention” by Annabeth Albert – Part of the “Out of Uniform” series, this novel focuses on a former SEAL dealing with losing his husband and finding love again. It’s a touching story of healing, resilience, and the power of love to provide a new direction.
“Strength & Courage” by M.A. Innes – Set in the world of the military, this book explores the relationship between two men as they face the challenges of military life and the discovery of deeper feelings for each other, offering a blend of emotion, strength, and vulnerability.
“The Heart’s Invisible Furies” by John Boyne – While not exclusively focused on military themes, this novel spans the life of a gay man born in post-war Ireland. It includes elements of military life and provides a poignant exploration of love, identity, and societal challenges over several decades.
5 Angsty MM Romance Books
“Call Me By Your Name” by André Aciman – This novel is a profound exploration of first love and heartbreak, set in the Italian Riviera. The story follows the passionate summer romance between a young man and a visiting scholar, marked by intense emotions and a lingering longing and melancholy.
“Captive Prince” by C.S. Pacat – This series starts with a prince being betrayed and sent as a slave to an enemy nation. The intricate political plot, power dynamics, and the evolving, intense relationship between the main characters create a story rich in angst and emotional depth.
“Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston – Although it contains many light-hearted and humorous moments, this novel also focuses on the angst of a secret relationship between the First Son of the United States and the Prince of Wales, set against the high-stakes backdrop of international politics and familial expectations.
“Wolfsong” by TJ Klune – A tale of werewolves, family, and first love. The story is emotionally charged, focusing on the intense relationship between a young man and a werewolf, filled with themes of belonging, change, and the pain of separation.
“The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller – This retelling of the story of Achilles and Patroclus in the Trojan War is filled with emotional turmoil and the tragedy of love and loss, offering a deeply moving perspective on their relationship.
These novels explore the complexities of relationships and the unique challenges gay couples face, providing a nuanced look at interpersonal dynamics. They also offer entertainment, emotional depth, and diverse perspectives. Whether you’re looking for compelling love stories, wish to support diverse narratives, or simply enjoy the romance genre, they are worth exploring. So, why not dive into the world of MM romance and discover the captivating stories that await you?
Note: Reading MM romance is a way to support LGBTQ+ authors and the production of more diverse literature. It encourages publishers to continue investing in stories representing a wider range of human experiences.
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