Hi! You have an interesting question that I would like to answer. Readers are drawn to the alpha male archetype in young adult literature. To understand the reason for this, we must consider the fact that most readers of young adult fiction are teenagers or young adults who are usually drawn to an idealized version of masculinity. This archetype is typically seen as dominating, powerful and protective. They have control over their emotions unless it is anger or jealousy triggered by the heroine. The idea of a powerful and well-disciplined man having a weakness that is exclusively attached to the heroine is attractive to most readers. The contrast of extreme power and weakness makes the alpha man more alluring because it sets an unrealistic standard that is not seen in the real world. It is human nature to be attracted to the impossible, the fantastic and the paradox. This is why sometimes, the readers find villains more interesting than heroes. Think about it. A powerful man who possesses superior intelligence, resources and charisma but has a soft spot only for you. Exciting, right?

However, there is a difference between being assertive and abusive. The actual archetype of an alpha male is a leader and not a tyrant. While reading young adult literature, an abusive or vain male lead would disappoint many readers.