LGBTQ+ Romance Novels
The literary world is full of stories that explore the complexities of love and relationships. And with the growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals and their stories, there are now more LGBTQ+ romance novels than ever before. These books offer a diverse range of characters and experiences that speak to the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community. Here are 10 LGBTQ+ romance novels that will melt your heart and leave you wanting more.
1. Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Red, White & Royal Blue is a witty and charming romance novel that explores the relationship between the son of the US President and the Prince of Wales. The book is a delight from beginning to end, with its quirky characters, fun dialogue, and heartwarming moments. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves a good romance novel.
2. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a beautifully written novel that follows the life of an aging Hollywood actress as she reflects on her past loves and relationships. It’s a story that explores the complexities of love and the sacrifices we make for the people we care about. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys character-driven stories.
3. Call Me By Your Name by Andre Aciman
Call Me By Your Name is a breathtakingly beautiful novel that explores the intense, passionate relationship between two young men in Italy. The book is a masterpiece of storytelling, with its evocative prose and vivid descriptions of the Italian countryside. It’s a story that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
4. The Price of Salt by Patricia Highsmith
The Price of Salt is a groundbreaking novel that was originally published in 1952. The book follows the story of a young woman who falls in love with an older, married woman. It’s a story that was ahead of its time, and it’s still relevant today. The Price of Salt is a must-read for anyone who wants to explore the history of LGBTQ+ literature.
5. The Gravity Between Us by Kristen Zimmer
The Gravity Between Us is a captivating novel that explores the relationship between two childhood friends who reconnect as adults. The book is a beautiful exploration of love, friendship, and the power of attraction. It’s a story that will leave you feeling hopeful and inspired.
6. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a beautiful coming-of-age novel that follows the friendship and romance between two teenage boys. The book is a moving exploration of identity, family, and the search for meaning in life. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to experience the power of young love.
7. The Color Purple by Alice Walker
The Color Purple is a powerful novel that explores the lives of African American women in the early 20th century. The book features a lesbian relationship between two of its characters, and it’s a beautiful exploration of love and the struggle for self-acceptance. The Color Purple is a must-read for anyone who wants to explore the intersectionality of LGBTQ+ identity.
8. Annie on My Mind by Nancy Garden
Annie on My Mind is a groundbreaking young adult novel that was first published in 1982. The book follows the relationship between two teenage girls in New York City, and it’s a beautiful exploration of first love and the struggles of coming out. Annie on My Mind is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth.
9. The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne
The Heart’s Invisible Furies is a sweeping epic that follows the life of a gay man in Ireland from the 1940s to the present day. The book is a beautiful exploration of love, loss, and the search for identity. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the history of LGBTQ+ rights in Ireland.
10. The Price of Everything by Russell Smith
The Price of Everything is a smart and sexy novel that follows the lives of a group of young artists and intellectuals in Toronto. The book features a gay romance between two of its characters, and it’s a witty exploration of love, art, and the cost of ambition. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to experience a fresh and modern take on the LGBTQ+ romance novel.