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Tag: Queer romance

  • Vampire Book Reviews: Hollow By Celina Myers & The Fox And The Devil By Kiersten White

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    Vampire books are so back—almost like they never left…just lurked in the shadows. Gather round, lovers of Twilight, Vampire Diaries, and beyond. Because 2026 is shaping up to be a big year for vampire fans, and we’re here to bring you two new vampire novels.

    Celina Myers’ debut novel, Hollow, is a tale about Mia, a young woman who becomes a vampire and finds herself caught between two rival families and their complicated history. Kiersten White‘s new novel, The Fox and the Devil, follows Anneke, the daughter of a vampire hunter who becomes obsessed with taking down an immortal serial killer.

    These two vampire tales feature a bisexual and sapphic romance that we absolutely live for. Not to mention the powerful, unstoppable female protagonists. Here is our dual review of Hollow and The Fox and the Devil!

    Book Overview: Hollow By Celina Myers

    Vampire book: Hollow by Celina Myers
    Image Source: HarperCollins Publishers

    Content warnings: death, parent death, murder, attempted murder, attempted suicide, gore, bodies, corpses, violence, car accident, miscarriage, needles, poisoning, mentions of transphobia

    Summary: Mia Adair isn’t even twenty-five yet, but she’s starting to wonder if her peak has already passed. She’s spent years working at her local bookstore, a job that was supposed to be temporary. As a kid, she experienced a strange sort of fame within the paranormal community thanks to her inclusion in a book that revealed Mia’s ability to talk with the dead. But that was then, and Mia’s “gift” dried up once adolescence set in. These days, she feels like she’s nobody special.

    Until she dies in a tragic car crash and reawakens as a vampire…

    Forced to leave behind everything she knew, Mia must choose to live with one of two rival vampire families. The Bellamy and Sutton clans share a dark, complicated history that spans centuries. As Mia learns about their age-old traditions and extraordinary powers, along with their forbidden romances and betrayals, she’s drawn toward two very different loves. And as she feels her gift returning, more potent than ever before, Mia realizes she’ll need it to protect innocent lives—and save the only family she has left.

    Our Review

    Let’s start with Hollow by Celina Myers. You may know her online as CelinaSpookyBoo or have watched her journey writing this book until now. Maybe you haven’t seen her content but are open to a new vampire book featuring a bisexual protagonist trying to get back her ability to see ghosts. Whatever the case, Hollow is such a quick and easy read that you won’t want to put down. Seriously, we read it all within a few hours.

    Mia Adair’s vampire journey is as rocky as one might expect, given that she didn’t ask to turn. But the method of turning people changes from injecting just one vampire’s blood to injecting the blood of a whole family of vampires. This adds a deeper layer as we meet the members of the Bellamy and Sutton families and hear their stories. With a weakening matriarch at the helm, Mia soon regains her powers and discovers the crucial role she plays in both families.

    We also want to highlight the narrative flow of Hollow. When there are so many characters in play, it can be difficult to remember who someone is and why they’re important. But this novel gives us just enough information about each one before we get into their actions that move the plot. Every character adds to the story. It felt so seamless to read, and we know how much effort it takes to make the narration seem so effortless. We were hooked!

    Release date: January 13
    Order Hollow here!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CELINA MYERS:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

    Book Overview: The Fox And The Devil By Kiersten White

    Vampire novel: The Fox and the Devil by Kiersten White
    Image Source: Penguin Random House

    Content warnings: death, death of loved ones, murder, gore, bodies, corpses, violence, themes of trauma and grief

    Summary: Anneke has a complicated relationship with her father, Abraham Van Helsing—doctor, scientist, and madman devoted to the study of vampires—until the night she comes home to find him murdered, with a surreally beautiful woman looming over his body. A woman who leaves no trace behind, other than the dreams and nightmares that now plague Anneke every night.

    Spurred by her desire for vengeance and armed with the latest forensic and investigatory techniques, Anneke puts together a team of detectives to catch this mysterious serial killer. Because her father isn’t the only inexplicable dead body. There’s a trail of victims across Europe, and Anneke is certain they’re all connected.

    But during the years spent relentlessly hunting the killer, Anneke keeps crucial evidence to herself: infuriatingly coy letters, addressed only to her, occasionally soaked in blood, and always signed Diavola.

    The closer Anneke gets to her devil, though, the less sense the world makes. Maybe her father wasn’t a madman after all. Diavola might be something much worse than a serial killer…and much harder to destroy. Yet as Anneke unearths more of Diavola’s tragic past, she suspects there’s still a heart somewhere in that undead body.

    A heart that beats for Anneke alone.

    Our Review

    Our next vampire book is The Fox and the Devil by Kiersten White. We were drawn in by the sapphic vampire story, and we stayed for the incredible storytelling. Told in two overlapping timelines in the late nineteenth century, we follow Anneke as she devotes years to chasing after her father’s killer. All the while, we start to get closer and closer to the present threat, which was so much bigger than Anneke had assumed.

    We absolutely loved traveling all over Europe, solving murder mysteries alongside Anneke and her chaotic found family: Dávid, Maher, and Igne. They are true ride-or-dies, even when they don’t agree with one another. But Anneke’s target seems to constantly stay two steps ahead and evade them no matter how hard they try. It doesn’t help that Diavola haunts Anneke’s dreams and thoughts every night and day, either.

    The buildup of romantic tension is also done beautifully in this Gothic novel. We really get a sense of intense yearning and curiosity on both sides, as evidenced in the letters that Diavola leaves for Anneke. And Anneke eventually uncovers Diavola’s true identity and reasoning for leading her on this never-ending hunt. We couldn’t see the plot twist or the bittersweet ending coming, but that just made the emotions even more heightened.

    Release date: March 10
    Preorder The Fox and the Devil here!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT KIERSTEN WHITE:
    INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE

    What do you think of these new vampire novels? Have you added Hollow by Celina Myers or The Fox and the Devil by Kiersten White to your reading list? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram!

    Want to hear some of our audiobook recommendations? Here’s the latest!

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    Julie Dam

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  • Sweet Listens: Tune Into These October Audiobooks

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    This month just started, but it already feels like it’s flying by so quickly! We’ve had to pleasure of reading and reviewing so many wonderful fantasies and contemporary novels. And our list of October audiobooks has just as much diversity.

    Are you in the mood for a queer sports romance? What about a quirky whodunit mystery? We’ve got it all in our newest Sweet Listens!

    Content warning: The Honey POP encourages mindful listening and checking the author’s website for any additional content warnings.

    For No Mortal Creature By Keshe Chow

    Image Source: Penguin Random House

    Kicking off our October audiobook recommendations is Kesha Chow’s dark romantasy, For No Mortal Creature! Inspired by the classic Gothic novel Wuthering Heights, this haunting and magical story follows Jia Yi, a girl with the power of resurrection. She can move between the realm of the living and the dead, an ability she must now use to retrieve a long-lost sword and save her grandma. The only ones who can help her are Lin, the boy she had loved before he betrayed her, and Prince Essien, her mortal enemy. Let’s just say we weren’t expecting the love triangle to steal our hearts as quickly as it did…

    Release date: October 7
    Order For No Mortal Creature here!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT KESHE CHOW:
    INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE

    Most Valuable Player By A. M. Woody

    October audiobook: Most Valuable Player by A. M. Woody
    Image Source: Penguin Random House

    Next in our Sweet Listens roundup is A. M. Woody’s swoony YA romance, Most Valuable Player! To his great dismay, Cameron “Cam” Morelli, the school’s cocky star quarterback, gets rejected by the team’s sarcastic water boy, Mason Gray. As fate would have it, Mason is the only person who can help tutor him and get his grades up to go back on the field. The two of them grow closer, each one letting down his defenses and becoming each other’s safe spaces. Cam is so much more than what his jock persona presents. Mason must face an abusive ex and accept the reality that what happened to him was never his fault.

    Release date: October 21
    Preorder Most Valuable Player here!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT A. M. WOODY:
    INSTAGRAM

    The Dysfunctional Family’s Guide To Murder By Kate Emery

    October audiobook: The Dysfunctional Family's Guide to Murder by Kate Emery
    Image Source: Penguin Random House

    Our final October audiobook is a quirky murder mystery with family drama around every corner. A family vacation turns into a crime scene when the family’s matriarch GG dies in The Dysfunctional Family’s Guide to Murder by Kate Emery. Fourteen-year-old Ruth has read enough mystery novels to get started on the case. And with the help of her newfound cousin Dylan, she starts to discover family secrets from everyone in the house that could’ve led to GG’s death. The plot twists and new clues were jaw-dropping, and we gripped the edge of our seats during the big reveal at the end! (We had a feeling but weren’t 100% sure.)

    Release date: October 21
    Preorder The Dysfunctional Family’s Guide to Murder here!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT KATE EMERY:
    TWITTER | WEBSITE

    What do you think of this month’s audiobook recommendations? Which of these October audiobooks are you most interested in listening to? Let us know on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram!

    If you want in-depth book coverage, we got you!

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    Julie Dam

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  • 3 Things We Love About Legend Of The White Snake By Sher Lee

    3 Things We Love About Legend Of The White Snake By Sher Lee

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    If there’s one genre THP can never get tired of, it’s YA fantasy! So today, we’re reviewing Sher Lee’s newest novel, Legend of the White Snake.

    Legend of the White Snake by Sher Lee retells the Chinese legend of the same name, only it’s now an even more swoon-worthy, queer romance between two teenagers: a stubborn prince named Xian and a snake spirit named Zhen.

    We literally finished reading Legend of the White Snake in one sitting, and it may just be one of our favorite fantasies this year. So here are three things we love about it!

    Cover: Legend of the White Snake by Sher Lee
    Image Source: HarperCollins Publishers

    Book Overview: Legend Of The White Snake

    Content Warnings: death, attempted murder, violence, corporal punishment and blood, torture, poisoning, corpses, hunting

    Summary: When Prince Xian was a boy, a white snake bit his mother and condemned her to a slow, painful death. The only known cure is an elusive spirit pearl—or an antidote created from the rare white snake itself. Desperate and determined, Xian travels to the city of Changle, where an oracle predicted he would find and capture a white snake.

    Seven years ago, Zhen, a white snake in the West Lake, consumed a coveted spirit pearl, which gave him special powers—including the ability to change into human form.

    In Changle, Xian encounters an enigmatic but beautiful stable boy named Zhen. The two are immediately drawn to each other, but Zhen soon realizes that he is the white snake Xian is hunting. As their feelings grow deeper, will the truth about Zhen’s identity tear them apart? 

    Elements Of Chinese Culture

    In case you didn’t know, the Legend of the White Snake, also known as Madame White Snake, is one of China’s Four Great Folktales. It has been adapted into several movies, TV shows, and other media. And this retelling by Sher Lee gender-bends the female snake spirit from the original into a young man. We love the nods to Chinese culture, beliefs, and traditions throughout this novel. Recurring themes include the concept of yin and yang, filial piety, divine prophecies, proper temple etiquette, and so many others!

    The Pacing

    We really loved the pacing of Sher Lee’s Legend of the White Snake because the story flows so smoothly. We were so glad that Xian’s identity as the prince did not become a misunderstanding at the beginning. Xian and Zhen also took their time developing their relationship rather than rushing into the instant attraction. We laughed then cried when their romance takes a turn once the truth became known. It was truly such a happy medium, and we couldn’t ask for more.

    They Fight For Their Love

    One of the main things from Legend of the White Snake that we’ll keep in our hearts is that we need to work harder than any fate or destiny. Xian tells Zhen that destiny is for people who don’t fight for what they really want in life. (And we took that personally!) Xian and Zhen’s distant past complicates their blissful present. They fall into incredibly difficult positions because of duty. But they both sacrifice everything to be together in the end, even if it took a little longer than expected.

    Sher Lee’s Legend of the White Snake blesses us with a well-paced, queer retelling of a famous Chinese folktale, and we thoroughly enjoyed this tale from start to finish.

    Legend of the White Snake by Sher Lee will be available October 15th, and you can order a copy of it here!

    What do you think about Sher Lee’s new novel, Legend of the White Snake? Have you already added it to your fall TBR? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram!

    Want to hear some of our audiobook recommendations? Here’s the latest!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SHER LEE:
    INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE

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    Julie Dam

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  • 10 best shows like ‘Heartstopper,’ ranked

    10 best shows like ‘Heartstopper,’ ranked

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    If I don’t get more shows like Heartstopper, my ticker will stop ticking. Netflix has yet to renew the heartwarming show for a fourth season, and unlike Celine Dion, I don’t think my heart can go on without more. What will I watch in the meantime? These 10 best shows like Heartstopper should do the trick.

    10. Genera+ion

    (Max)

    Despite only lasting for one season, Genera+ion is one of the best ensemble shows to tackle queer themes. It’s about a group of queer high schoolers who help each other survive in their conservative town. Like Heartstopper, it’s a show about the importance of queer friendships, and how sometimes family is the one you choose, not the people you’re related to by blood.

    9. Atypical

    Two teenage girls sit one a sofa in a bright room in "Atypical"
    (Netflix)

    Atypical centers around an autistic teenager named Sam, highlighting his successes and struggles in finding love and friendship. The series also revolves around Sam’s sister Casey, who comes to terms with her sexuality and enters into a lesbian relationship. It’s poignant, adorable, and ultimately a show about self-acceptance and growth.

    8. Yuri!!! On ICE

    Yuri and Victor in 'Yuri on Ice' (MAPPA)
    (Mappa)

    If you love queer athletes like Heartstopper’s Nick, you’ll adore Yuri!!! On ICE. It’s the story of a Japanese figure skater named Yuri who suffers a crushing defeat at a national competition. He catches the eye of a famous Russian figure skater named Victor, who agrees to coach Yuri back to greatness. The pair begin to grow close on and off the ice, culminating in one of the best queer romances in anime history.

    7. First Kill

    calliope and juliette in First Kill
    (Netflix)

    First Kill is a show about stopping hearts, both romantically and mortally. The series centers around two teenage girls who find themselves on either side of the supernatural world. One comes from a line of vampires, the other, vampire hunters. Despite their differences, the pair form a forbidden sapphic relationship that’s sure to get your blood pumping.

    6. Sex Education

    Aimee Lou Wood as Aimee, Emma Mackey as Maeve, and Asa Butterfield as Otis in Sex Education
    (Netflix)

    When it comes to sex comedies, Sex Education might be the best on the market. The series revolves around a high schooler named Otis, the son of a famous sex therapist. Discovering that his strait-laced school is sorely in need of a sex education program, he decides to open a clinic and be the one to run it. Characters of all sexualities from all walks of life appear, and Otis painstakingly tries to assist them all.

    5. Heartbreak High

    Amerie, Darren, and Quinni standing at their lockers in Heartbreak High
    (Netflix)

    A reboot of a 1994 Australian teen drama of the same name, Heartbreak High centers around a group of students who get into hot water after a school official finds a secret wall where their sexual escapades have been recorded. It’s essentially Sex Education if teen sex therapist Otis Milburn had never shown up at school, and shows the consequences of a world where queer teens are left without institutional support.

    4. Young Royals

    Omar Rudberg as Simon and Edwin Ryding as Wilhelm in Young Royals
    (Netflix)

    Young Royals is essentially Heartstopper with Swedish nobility. At the prestigious Hillerska boarding school, Prince Wilhelm escapes his highly regimented life and falls in love with his classmate Simon. Things get complicated when Wilhelm, content to turn his back on royalty for good, discovers he is next in line for the throne.

    3. We Are Who We Are

    Two teens side on rocks by the ocean in "We Are We Who Are"
    (Max)

    Directed by Call Me By Your Name’s Luca Guadagnino, We Are Who We Are is the story of Fraser and Caitlin, two queer teens who find themselves drawn to one another while living abroad in Italy. The pair form a fast friendship and help each other navigate their budding sexualities and gender fluidity.

    2. Skam

    Two young men press their foreheads together in "Skam"
    (NRK1)

    The Norwegian drama series Skam features a different protagonist every season. Heartstopper fans will likely resonate with season 3’s addition of Isak and Evan, a teenage gay couple attempting to find their place in a conservative environment. The show has been remade seven times in seven different languages, so you know it’s good.

    1. Love, Victor

    A teenage gay couple stand beside each other in the high school halls in "Love, Victor"
    (Hulu)

    Love, Victor is a spinoff of the queer romance film Love, Simon, and centers around a love story between two teenage boys. After young Victor enrolls in Creekwood High School, he finds himself drawn to the recent graduate Simon (yes, the Simon from the movie!). Victor begins texting Simon to find guidance, and the pair eventually form a bond that goes beyond their initial friendship. If you’re looking for Heartstopper-grade slow-burn queer romance, you’ve come to the right place.


    The Mary Sue is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy

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    Jack Doyle

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  • Platonic Crush — Meaning, Signs, And What To Do

    Platonic Crush — Meaning, Signs, And What To Do

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    Have you ever experienced a platonic crush that caught you off guard, leaving you in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions? I vividly remember a time when I found myself entangled in a platonic crush, a peculiar cocktail of admiration, friendship, and a subtle longing.

    This peculiar episode unfolded when a woman entered my life, effortlessly turning ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. She possessed an undeniable charm that went beyond conventional romantic appeal, sparking a unique connection that left me grappling with my newfound understanding of a platonic crush.

    As I navigated this uncharted territory, I found myself questioning the nature of my feelings and contemplating the significance of this connection that defied easy categorization. Little did I know, this experience would prompt me to explore the meaning, signs, and possible courses of action one takes when confronted with a platonic crush.

    What Is A Platonic Crush?

    A platonic crush, often referred to as platonic attraction or a friend crush, is a fascinating phenomenon that resides in the gray area between friendship and romantic feelings. The term ‘platonic crush’ is often used to describe feelings that go beyond mere friendship, but without developing into a romantic relationship. Unlike a traditional romantic crush, a platonic crush involves experiencing a deep sense of admiration and affection for someone without the romantic or sexual undertones.

    In essence, platonic crush meaning boils down to an attraction that is built on a strong emotional connection. Is there such a thing as a platonic crush while in a relationship? Yes. It’s entirely possible to experience a platonic crush without jeopardizing the commitment to a romantic partner. You must embrace your feelings of platonic attraction and ensure open communication with your partner, in order to maintain a healthy and transparent relationship with them.

    A platonic crush is a strong emotional connection without any sexual undertones

    Significance of platonic crushes for asexual and aromantic communities

    Let’s explore the concept of platonic crushes in the context of romantic and non-romantic inclinations. Within the asexual and aromantic communities, where individuals fall on the ace and aromantic spectrum, the idea of platonic relationships and crushes holds particular significance. Many asexual and aromantic people experience deep and meaningful connections that are non-romantic or non-sexual, highlighting the richness and diversity of platonic love. Within this context, the term ‘queerplatonic relationship’ is often used to describe intense, emotionally intimate connections that surpass the boundaries of traditional friendship.

    Researchers have spoken about sexual and romantic orientations too: “Aromanticism, which is less widely known than asexuality, is most commonly used to describe people who experience low to no romantic attraction … [Asexual and aromantic] people have different experiences of sexual and romantic attraction, which is referred to as “differentiated attraction.” In essence, a platonic crush challenges societal norms. It invites us to recognize the validity of non-romantic affections and appreciate the various dimensions of love that extend beyond the romantic and sexual realm.

    Related Reading: 8 myths about Asexuals (ASE)

    What’s The Difference Between A Platonic Crush And A Romantic Crush?

    The feelings of a platonic crush and a romantic crush may overlap, but they are not the same. A platonic crush, sometimes referred to as a friend crush, involves a deep emotional bond and intense feelings of admiration and affection for someone, akin to the warmth of a close friendship — but without the romantic or sexual elements commonly associated with a romantic crush. So, this kind of emotional attraction is different from crushing on a friend. To illustrate the differences more clearly, let’s examine the key distinctions between a platonic crush and a romantic crush:

    Platonic Crush Romantic Crush
    A platonic crush primarily involves admiration and affection Involves romantic feelings and, at times, sexual attraction
    It often develops within the context of close friendships or even acquaintances  Typically arises in the pursuit of a romantic or physical relationship
    Platonic feelings focus on seeking a deep emotional connection. The aim may or may not be a platonic relationship Encompasses both emotional and physical aspects, aiming for a romantic relationship
    Does not necessarily lead to a romantic partnership or romantic feelings Often involves envisioning a romantic relationship with the person
    Can be experienced within various types of connections and relationships Typically forms with only those you consider your ‘type’ — the kind of people whom you experience feelings of romantic or sexual attraction for
    Can coexist with platonic or romantic feelings that you may experience for others too Often prompts the desire for exclusivity and commitment in a romantic relationship
    Differences between platonic crush and romantic crush

    Related Reading: 10 Signs Of Emotional Attraction From A Man

    One Reddit user talks about platonic crushes and romantic crushes, “Imagine doing something with that person you consider a “partner-only” or “date-only” activity, like kissing or cuddling or going to the movies and holding hands. It doesn’t need to be sexual, but it does need to be something you consider exclusively “romantic,” as in, something you’d not do with the platonic friends you have. If the thought of romantic interludes feels right, it may be a romantic crush. If the thought feels weird, it may be platonic … It’s okay too if you think it’s one thing and it turns out to be the other. Feelings are complicated and weird and often irrational and ineffable.”

    Understanding these differences between a romantic crush and a platonic crush helps individuals navigate the complex landscape of human emotions. And also puts the platonic crush meaning in perspective. It provides clarity in relationships, particularly when addressing feelings of admiration and attraction.

    7 Signs You Have Got A Platonic Crush

    Deciphering whether your feelings for someone are platonic or romantic can be quite a head-scratcher. If you find yourself wondering what is platonic attraction, or whether or not you have a platonic crush, here are seven platonic crush signs that might help you unravel the mystery.

    1. You find joy in their company

    If spending time with this person evokes the same joy and fulfillment you experience with your closest friends, you might have a platonic crush. Whether it’s shared laughter, common interests, or simply enjoying each other’s company, the connection feels akin to the comfort found in strong friendships. But there’s more.

    2. You think about them a lot

    One unmistakable sign of a platonic crush is the persistent nature of thoughts about the person that occupies your mind. It’s a peculiar sensation of daydreaming that unfolds without a trace of a sexual or romantic agenda — a feeling quite different from romantically crushing on a friend. Your thoughts may meander into scenarios where you envision sharing laughter over a cup of coffee, discussing life’s intricacies, or embarking on adventures together.

    Related Reading: 23 Signs Your Soulmate Is Thinking Of You – And They Are All True!

    3. You feel comfortable as you are

    What is platonic attraction? As mentioned before, it is a sense of a deep emotional connection with another person. Unlike the complexities often associated with romantic relationships, a platonic crush tends to bring a sense of comfort and lower stress levels. The dynamics are built on genuine friendship, free from the complications that can arise in romantic entanglements.

    4. You might be aromantic

    The term ‘aromantic’ serves as an umbrella term for those who may experience little to no romantic attraction. In aromantic communities or among individuals on the aromantic spectrum, platonic crushes hold particular significance. These connections allow for deep bonds without the desire for romance. So if you’re aromantic, that’s a pretty good sign that the person you can’t stop thinking about is your platonic crush.

    Related Reading: What Is Platonic Dating? Does It Practically Work Out In Real Life?

    5. You feel happy for them when they find romantic love

    One distinctive trait of someone navigating a platonic crush is the genuine happiness they feel for their crush’s romantic or sexual escapades. In contrast to a romantic crush where such developments might evoke feelings of jealousy or disappointment, many people with a platonic crush revel in the joy of witnessing their friend find happiness in romantic connections. This kind of unconditional love is one of the many ways a platonic crush is different from romantically crushing on a friend.

    Unless, of course, their crush starts neglecting them after getting into a relationship with someone. It’s akin to but worse than when a friend you adore stops investing in your friendship when they find a new support system.

    6. You experience a deeper level of intimacy with them

    A platonic crush often involves a deeper level of intimacy that goes beyond surface-level interactions. This intimacy is characterized by emotional closeness and genuine care for the other person, fostering a meaningful connection without the expectations of a romantic relationship. Engaging in conversations that transcend small talk is a key sign of a platonic crush.

    Related Reading: Platonic Soulmate: What Is It And 11 Signs You’ve Found Yours

    7. You have a genuine interest in the events of their life

    Your interest in the person’s life is sincere, devoid of any romantic or sexual motives. You care about their well-being, aspirations, and experiences on a personal level, showcasing a connection that goes beyond the parameters of a romantic relationship.

    Understanding these signs helps in navigating the boundaries of platonic crushes and platonic relationships, allowing for genuine connections to flourish without the added pressure of romantic expectations or the fear that you’ll lose a friend. It creates a space where both individuals can enjoy a meaningful connection, even though it’s not yet understood by society in general.

    Pros And Cons Of Having A Platonic Crush

    Navigating the terrain of platonic crushes, those intriguing bonds that straddle the line between friendship and something more, involves a rollercoaster of emotions. As we find ourselves drawn to someone in a way that goes beyond conventional friendships and into the realm of aromantic relationships, the landscape is dotted with both pros and cons. The allure of a deep emotional connection and the comfort of a meaningful friendship beckon on one side, while the potential for unrequited feelings and the need to navigate nuanced boundaries loom on the other. As we explore the pros and cons of having a platonic crush, we’ll shed light on the joys and challenges that accompany these unique and sometimes complex relationships.

    Pros of having a platonic crush

    • Deep emotional connection: A platonic crush often leads to a deep emotional connection with the person, fostering a strong bond based on shared interests, understanding, and mutual respect
    • Increased confidence: Recognizing and dealing with a platonic crush can boost your confidence, as it requires self-awareness and emotional intelligence to navigate the complexities of your feelings
    • Diversity of love: Platonic crushes contribute to the overall richness of your social connections and channels of love. This can enhance your support system and create lasting, meaningful friendships
    • No romantic expectations: Unlike romantic crushes, platonic crushes don’t come with the pressure of romantic expectations. This can lead to a more relaxed and enjoyable relationship, allowing both individuals to be themselves without the added complexities of romance
    • Support system: The person you have a platonic crush on can become a reliable source of emotional support. Sharing your thoughts, concerns, and joys with them can contribute to a healthy and supportive connection

    Related Reading: The Yin And Yang Of The Sexuality Spectrum

    Cons of having a platonic crush

    • Unrequited feelings: One of the main challenges of a platonic crush is the possibility of unrequited feelings. If the other person doesn’t share the same level of attraction, it can lead to emotional distress and disappointment
    • Navigating boundaries: Understanding how to navigate the boundaries of a platonic crush can be tricky. It requires open communication to ensure both individuals are comfortable with the nature of the relationship
    • Potential impact on other relationships: If you are in a romantic relationship, having a platonic crush may pose challenges. It’s important to handle these feelings with sensitivity to avoid any strain on existing relationships
    • Emotional turmoil: Dealing with a platonic crush can sometimes be emotionally challenging as it challenges the norms of conventional relationships. Sorting through your feelings, especially if they are conflicting, may require introspection and self-reflection
    • A source of distraction: A strong platonic crush might become a distraction, taking up mental and emotional space that could be directed elsewhere. This distraction could potentially affect other aspects of your life if not managed appropriately
    platonic crush signs
    A platonic crush often leads to a deep emotional connection with another person

    Understanding the pros and cons of having a platonic crush allows individuals to navigate these feelings with greater awareness, making informed decisions about how to approach and manage such relationships.

    What To Do If You Like Someone Platonically?

    If you have platonic feelings for a person, you’ll require a delicate balance of understanding your needs and respecting the boundaries of the relationship. If you find yourself liking someone platonically, consider the following steps:

    • Self-reflection: Take some time to reflect on your feelings and understand the nature of your attraction. Identify whether your emotions are truly platonic or if there are underlying romantic or sexual aspects
    • Acceptance: Embrace and accept your feelings without judgment. Platonic connections are valuable and can contribute to fulfilling friendships. Acknowledge that it’s okay to have deep, non-romantic affections for someone
    • Open communication: If you feel comfortable, communicate openly with the person about your platonic feelings. Honest conversations can strengthen your friendship and help ensure that both parties are on the same page regarding the nature of your relationship
    • Respect boundaries: Be mindful of the other person’s feelings and boundaries. Not everyone may interpret or respond to platonic feelings in the same way. Respect their comfort level and be prepared for varying responses
    • Enjoy the connection: Focus on nurturing the bond without letting platonic feelings overshadow the enjoyment of each other’s company. Embrace shared interests, engage in meaningful conversations, and celebrate the positives of your connection
    • Manage expectations: Keep expectations realistic and in line with the nature of your relationship. Platonic crushes don’t necessarily lead to platonic relationships, so it’s important to manage expectations to avoid potential disappointments
    • Explore other interests: Diversify your social circle and engage in activities that allow you to form connections with a variety of people. This can help balance your emotions and prevent fixation on a single platonic crush
    • Seek support: If needed, confide in friends or seek support from those who can provide guidance. Sharing your feelings with trusted individuals can offer valuable perspectives and help you process your emotions
    • Be mindful of existing relationships: If you are in a romantic relationship, be mindful of how your platonic feelings might impact it. Open communication with your romantic partner is crucial to maintaining trust and understanding
    • Focus on personal growth: Channel your energy into personal growth and self-improvement. Sometimes, platonic crushes can serve as catalysts for self-discovery and personal development

    Related Reading: 18 Types Of Sexualities And Their Meanings

    Remember, platonic feelings are a natural part of human relationships, and understanding and managing them can lead to enriching and fulfilling connections.

    Key Pointers

    • A platonic crush involves feelings of admiration and affection toward someone
    • Unlike a romantic crush, a platonic crush does not have any sexual or romantic undertones
    • If this person brings you joy and allows you to feel comfortable in your skin and you think about them a lot, you may have a platonic crush on them
    • If you do have a platonic crush on someone, it’s a good time for self-reflection and open communication while respecting their boundaries
    • Your feelings may hopefully lead to either a platonic partnership or a beautiful friendship with your crush

    The journey of liking someone platonically is a testament to the multifaceted nature of love and relationships. Embracing the diversity of human bonds, whether romantic or platonic, encourages personal growth, enriches our understanding of others, and adds vibrant hues to the tapestry of our lives. As we conclude this exploration, let us celebrate the beauty of platonic crushes as valuable expressions of human connection.

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