Hidden Affections Brings Black LGBTQ+ Romance to the Page

Debut novel by Zaire Anwar explores love, identity, and belonging for African-American same-sex couple

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Global Book Publishing is spotlighting Hidden Affections: Two Sides of Love, the debut novel by Zaire Anwar, a romance-drama that centers on an African-American M/M love story with emotional depth, self-discovery, and real-world pressure. The book continues to gain attention among LGBTQ+ readers and allies looking for a story that treats love and belonging as a human need, not a debate.

Why it matters

The story speaks to readers who understand that love can be life-giving and complicated at the same time, especially when outside judgment becomes part of the relationship. The book also expands representation in romance by highlighting Black men in a relationship without leaning on violence or shock to drive the plot, and by keeping the focus on identity, tenderness, and choice.

The details

At the center of Hidden Affections is architect Tyler Deveaux, whose life takes an unexpected turn after he enters a design contest and finds himself drawn to Edward Branch, a celebrated football star. Their relationship becomes public fast, and the attention forces both men to decide what they will protect, what they will risk, and what they truly want.

  • Hidden Affections: Two Sides of Love was first released on June 29, 2025.

The players

Zaire Anwar

A lifelong educator and storyteller whose work blends lived experience, careful observation, and a deep respect for the emotional truth of relationships. Hidden Affections: Two Sides of Love is his debut novel and the first in a planned trilogy.

Tyler Deveaux

The central character, an architect whose life takes an unexpected turn after entering a design contest and becoming drawn to Edward Branch.

Edward Branch

A celebrated football star who becomes involved in a relationship with Tyler Deveaux.

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The takeaway

Hidden Affections offers a romance that entertains while also making room for empathy, expanding representation in the genre by highlighting a Black same-sex couple's journey through love, identity, and belonging.