To love the Alpha-Hole

Character Archetype – Alpha Hole

In romance literature, especially within the subgenre of contemporary romance or erotic romance, authors often play with character archetypes. The term “alpha hero” typically describes a dominant, assertive, and confident male character who takes charge of situations and exhibits leadership qualities. They are often protective and may display traits that some readers find appealing, such as confidence and assertiveness.  

But there has to be more. The Alpha Hole Hero needs to have a part of them that lacks consideration. They want the people around them to conform to their way of thinking. There has to be a level of perfectionism to their view.  

The term “alpha-hole hero” is a playful or critical twist on the traditional alpha hero archetype. It is used to describe a male character who possesses the traits of an alpha hero but also exhibits negative qualities or behaviors that make them more challenging to relate to or empathize with. This could include arrogance, rudeness, or even manipulative behavior. 

I’m drawn to alpha-hole heroes, even though I’m aware that many readers find them challenging. To me, an alpha hole goes beyond just being a grump. They must exude an air of superiority and fully embrace their arrogance. 

Here are some of my favorite Alpha Hole Heroes of Romance  

First Up is the Gorgeous Monster hero from Charity Ferrell, Cristian Marchetti. He is the head of a Mafia Family. He is rich and powerful. He holds influence over his world. He is lethal in his dealings, but he has this strong sense of care to those who are loyal to him. His children and the heroine of his book Natalie. (full review)  

Before We Fall by Aurora Rose Reynolds features Tucker Beckett. He is a rule follower and natural protector. He demands the best from those in is sphere of influence. He is truly the Fuck around and find out hero. He has zero time to play games. But when it comes to Miranda Owens and her little boy- he would die for them! Protecting in loving them is first in his mind and reflected in every action he takes.  Review

Prey Tell by Amanda Richardson show a great character arc of going from Alpha Hole to Cinnamon Roll- with crispy edges. Chase Ravage is a jerk. He is overshadowed by his father’s legacy. The toxicity that comes with his family name. He absolutely makes choices for himself the benefit him, expect when it comes to Juliet. If you want a steamy sexy read that show big character growth that isn’t cheesy and has the perfect balance of swoon this is a must read!  

I do not love every Alpha Hole Hero I read. Sometimes they fall short and I am left wondering what I just read.  

“Man Cave” by Vanessa Vale, touted as an Alpha Hole Romance, unfortunately didn’t resonate with me as much as I had hoped. The main character, Theo, who is portrayed as the hero, comes across as incredibly myopic and disconnected from his surroundings. Despite the heroine Mallory’s strong and admirable qualities, Theo’s consistent failure to gauge social cues and situations left me grappling with the story’s dynamics. The lack of his ability to read the room and respond appropriately significantly impacted my engagement with this particular title. 

Marni Mann’s novel “The Intern” features an Alpha Hero who, in my perspective, lacked the qualities that typically make such characters attractive. His appeal as a swoon-worthy figure remained elusive to me. Instead of exuding charm, he consistently displayed a rude and abrasive demeanor towards those around him. Unfortunately, he failed to ascend to the level of genuine infatuation with the story’s heroine, leaving me unconvinced by their supposed connection