Hey, gang! I’m lucky to have nine male beta readers for my novels, but from time to time I get comments like the following, from a successful lawyer and father: “This is very romantic. (Damn it. I’m going to lose my man card, aren’t I?)” While it made me laugh, it was also a little sad.
I think Romance gets a bad rap among men, in part because of all the ripped torsos on the covers, and also because some of the heroes are so perfect—let’s face it, chiseled, rich, smart, talented, and amazing in bed is a LOT to live up to!—but also because many Romances are nothing but one long feelings-fest, and men haven’t been encouraged to allow themselves to do more than note their feelings and drive on.
I use male beta readers because I want my heroes to sound like men. Ever read a book in which the woman was so obviously, laughably written by a man? I don’t want to commit the same sin with my male characters!
I also want stories that appeal to men, too! Most of mine have plots that are much more complex than Boy Meets Girl, Loses Girl, and Gets Girl Back. My goal is to leave readers richer, having exposure to new worlds and subcultures. My heroes, however sizzling, still have challenges and obstacles to overcome.
Lastly, Romance novels can be a glimpse into what women want, and that can pay dividends in one’s love life! I’ve heard some scoff at this, saying “Give me a break. That’s like saying that men who read thrillers want to blow up buildings and kill people.” While it’s true that most men probably don’t crave those things, the underlying themes still appeal to people: honor, courage, loyalty, self-sacrifice. Similarly, it’s the underpinnings beneath those ripped abs we really want: loyalty, honesty, a sense of humor, attentiveness.
Here’s to all Real Men who are man enough to read Romance, to my Chloe Bro Rad Readers, and to all the women who encourage men to give Romance novels a try!
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