Romance for guys?
Hello! I've been trying my hand at writing my own romance, and I've realized I just haven't read much in the way of published romantic fiction. But as a straight dude, every time I read a synopsis, it just doesn't even come close to appealing to me.
I have no real issue with female POVs (though I would appreciate at least partial male POV), but I'm just looking for stuff that is a little less obviously targeted at women and girls. No shame to said works or the people who enjoy them.
I know there's a "romance for men" subreddit but frankly it is probably even farther away from what I want. Most of it is harem garbage with barely any conflict, pining, or any of that good angst that I love so much.
It doesnt need to be purely romance, but there should be a strong romantic angle. I just want to see a realistic feeling guy in love trying his best to make it a reality. With some trials and tribulations on the way (again, pining and angst are great).
Contemporary is fine, but I'm not particularly into sports focus. I'd rather not go full fantasy or sci-fi, but a modern/supernatural mix is cool. Historical is also fine. Coming of age themes are great. High school setting is fine by me
If anyone could rec some stuff that might fit the bill, I'd appreciate it. I've tried several times in the past few years to find some appealing stuff and just come up completely blank
Thank you 🙏