Having originally appeared in The New Yorker, Annie Proulx’s short story, Brokeback Mountain, is a restrained yet sweeping piece of sharply crafted fiction. The narrative explores the relationship between two ranchers set against the picturesque backdrop of the West.
The short story served as the basis for the 2005 Oscar-winning film of the same name, directed by Ang Lee. Although gay and lesbian romances have continued to capture mainstream attention, it’s safe to say that the hype surrounding Brokeback Mountain has yet to be matched.
If you’re still searching for a work of fiction that parallels the artistic prowess of Proulx, these five indie titles may be a suitable alternative.
Widdershins (Whyborne & Griffin) (Volume 1) by Jordan Hawk
Jordan L. Hawk’s Widdershins, a 2013 Rainbow Award Finalist, concerns an academic intellect and an ex-detective. On the surface, Percival Endicott Whyborne and Griffin Flaherty have nothing in common. When Griffin requests Percival’s impeccable translation services, the former is eager to finish the assignment and get on with his life. Naturally, Percival and Griffin become closer than they originally intended, in more ways than one.
With a subplot brimming with the occult and magical curses, Hawk’s Widdershins is a combination of hard-won romance and mystical intrigue.
Texas Pride by Kindle Alexander
As a member of Hollywood royalty, Austin Grainger just can’t get the privacy he desires. After deciding to retire from the industry, he opts for self-isolation in the middle of Texas. Without the constant presence of paparazzi, Grainger is grateful for his newfound anonymity. When he meets the alluring rancher Kitt Kelly, all of Austin’s plans for a life of low-risk idleness are tossed out the window.
Will the conservative Texas ranching community ever accept their budding romance?
Collide (Blackcreek Series Book 1) by Riley Hart
As friendly rivals from an early age, Noah Jameson and Cooper Bradshaw formed a surprising alliance. Yet their boyhood camaraderie was abruptly cut short when Noah and his family left town without a trace. Seventeen years pass; Noah returns to his hometown of Blackcreek hoping for a second chance at a normal, drama-free existence.
As fate would have it, Noah bumps into Cooper. Feelings that appeared long buried rise to the surface with undeniable clarity. Can Noah and Cooper put aside the past?
Try (Temptation Series) by Ella Frank
The first novel in the Temptation series, Ella Frank’s Try stars Logan Mitchell, a self-proclaimed libertine, and Tate Morrison, a damaged and broken bartender.
After escaping a rocky marriage from a less-than-sympathetic ex-wife, romance is the last thing on Tate’s mind. Unfortunately, he’s caught the eye of Logan, who is determined to win Tate at any cost. Will Tate give in to Logan’s crude yet aggressive courtship?
McFarland’s Farm (Hope Book 1) by Cardeno C.
Lucas Reika is used to living the good life–exciting parties, men and alcohol flowing in abundance.
Although born into wealth, Lucas turns down the opportunity to join the lucrative family business and decides to chase after Jared McFarland, a stern-faced farmer residing in the desolate town of Hope, Arizona.
Will Lucas and Jared overcome their differences to fight for their relationship? Or is love just a form of short-lived rebellion?
These indies contain shades of Proulx and, like Brokeback Mountain, not only discuss complicated relationships that are “taboo,” but nearly insurmountable obstacles that threaten a chance at true happiness.