Writing gay fiction novels with a purpose

Hey Booklovers,

I’ll self-publish my first novel very soon. As a gay male author, I am often asked about my motivation behind writing a young adult (YA) coming out story. For me, the decision to delve into this genre and topic stems from a deeply personal place – a place of authenticity, empathy, and the desire to give voice to the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth.

Growing up, I struggled with my own identity and the fear of societal judgment. Because I was different from my peers, I was constantly bullied. My journey to self-acceptance was tough. I felt completely alone. I didn’t know any other queer people and there was no queer representation in the media. Thankfully, this has changed.

My motivation extends beyond simple storytelling, it’s about representation and empowerment. LGBTQ+ youth deserve to see themselves reflected in literature, to know that they are not alone in their experiences, and to feel validated in their identities. Through my writing, I hope to provide a mirror for them to see their struggles, triumphs, and the beauty of embracing who they are.
I strive to take my readers on a fun journey while not leaving out the difficult moments that a queer person who is coming of age encounters. I aim to reflect the emotional turbulence and resilience that many LGBTQ+ individuals have to face during this pivotal moment in their lives.

I firmly believe that literature has the power to create understanding and compassion. By sharing authentic narratives of coming out, I hope to cultivate empathy among readers, regardless of their sexual orientation. Through empathy, we can bridge divides, challenge stereotypes, and build a more inclusive society!
Stories have the potential to spark meaningful conversations and offer guidance to both LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies.

Writing a YA coming out story allows me to explore themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery trough the gripping narrative of a love story with mystery elements. My first book is also a story of first love and the earth-shattering feelings that come with it.

I’m currently writing more stories. All of them share the same important aspects: my own experiences (#ownvoices), my deeply personal journey of self-discovery, a commitment to representation, and a desire to foster empathy and understanding. Through literature, we have the power to uplift, inspire, and create change – one story at a time! 🏳️‍🌈😊✍️

Stay bookish and fabulous,
Felix