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7 Mistakes You’re Making with Bisexual Representation (and How to Fix Them)

Read with Pride - LGBTQ+ blogs and articles February 28, 2026

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Bisexuality is one of the most misunderstood identities in LGBTQ+ fiction. While bisexual characters make up a significant portion of the community, their representation in MM romance often falls into repetitive traps. At eBooks by Dick Ferguson, we prioritize authentic, nuanced storytelling that moves beyond stereotypes. Below are seven common mistakes writers and publishers make with bisexual representation and the professional solutions to fix them.

1. Bi-Erasure and the Invisible Label

One of the most frequent errors in gay fiction and MM romance is the refusal to use the word "bisexual." Characters may express attraction to multiple genders, but the narrative often avoids the label, opting for "fluid" or no label at all. This contributes to bi-erasure, making the identity feel invisible even when the character is present.

The Fix: Explicitly identify your characters. If a man in an MM romance identifies as bisexual, let him say it. Acknowledging the identity as a central part of the character's journey provides the "Emotionally Invested Reader" with the representation they crave. Explore our latest news on authentic representation for more insights.

Two men in an MM relationship sharing a book, showing authentic bisexual representation and emotional validation.

2. Portraying Bisexuals as Inherently Untrustworthy

The "heartbreaker" or "cheater" trope is a tired stereotype that suggests bisexual individuals are incapable of monogamy or are perpetually "confused." In many gay novels, a bisexual love interest is framed as a risk because they might "leave for a woman."

The Fix: Create bisexual characters who are loyal, committed, and emotionally stable. Their capacity to be attracted to more than one gender does not dictate their moral character or their ability to maintain a dedicated male/male relationship. In Dick Ferguson's work, such as The Price of Desire, attraction is handled with depth rather than suspicion.

3. The "Straight to Gay" Binary Transition

Many stories follow a trajectory where a character identifies as straight, encounters a male love interest, and then immediately identifies as gay. While this is a valid experience for some, it often ignores the possibility that the character is bisexual. This "binary" view of sexuality suggests that any attraction to the same sex automatically invalidates previous attractions to other genders.

The Fix: Acknowledge that a character can enter an MM relationship while maintaining their bisexual identity. The shift from a "straight" life to a "gay" relationship doesn't have to mean the character's past was a lie; it can mean their understanding of their bisexuality has evolved.

MM couple holding hands on a winding path, symbolizing the fluid journey of bisexual identity in gay novels.

4. Using Bisexuality as a Plot Device for Villainy

There is a long history in literature and media of the "depraved bisexual" villain. This trope associates sexual fluidity with a lack of a moral compass, using a character's sexuality to signal that they are manipulative or "dangerous."

The Fix: Develop bisexual characters across the full moral spectrum. They can be heroes, protagonists, or everyday people. If you are writing a thriller or a psychological romance, ensure the character's bisexuality isn't the "reason" for their antagonistic behavior. For examples of complex, high-stakes character development, see our MM thrillers and fantasy titles.

5. Fetishization vs. Emotional Depth

In some corners of the MM romance market, bisexuality is used solely to increase "steam" levels without providing any narrative substance. This fetishization treats the identity as a performance for the reader rather than a lived experience for the character.

The Fix: Focus on the emotional weight of the relationship. Whether you are writing literary MM romance or steamy fiction, the connection between the two men should be grounded in raw emotion and genuine connection. Check out our discussion on literary MM romance vs. pure erotica to see how we balance these elements.

Intimate moment between two men, emphasizing emotional depth and vulnerability in gay romance fiction.

6. Treating Bisexuality as a "Phase"

Characters are often told their bisexuality is just a "stepping stone" to being fully gay or a temporary rebellion before returning to a "straight" lifestyle. This dismisses the identity as a core part of the individual.

The Fix: Present bisexuality as a stable, lifelong orientation. Even if a character spends the rest of their life in an MM relationship, they are still bisexual. Validation from other characters and the narrative voice is key to fixing this mistake.

7. Queer-baiting and Lack of Follow-Through

Sometimes, authors hint at a character's bisexual feelings to attract a queer audience but never actually follow through with a meaningful storyline or a same-sex relationship. This creates a sense of inclusion that is ultimately empty.

The Fix: Commit to the representation. If you introduce bisexual themes or same-sex attraction, allow it to play out authentically within the plot. Readers of LGBTQ+ eBooks are looking for stories that deliver on their promises.

MM couple embracing under trees, representing committed and authentic bisexual representation in queer books.

Why Authentic Representation Matters

At eBooks by Dick Ferguson, we believe that gay literature and MM romance should reflect the diversity of the queer community. Our commitment to sensitivity and nuance ensures that our gay love stories resonate with readers who are tired of the same old tropes. Whether it's the raw emotion in The Redwood Heart or the complex dynamics in Unleashed: A Life in Fur, we strive for excellence in every page.

Explore our full catalog of gay fiction, MM historical romance, and gay psychological thrillers today at readwithpride.com.

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