LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction has blossomed into a rich and diverse literary genre, offering readers a wide range of stories that explore identity, love, and personal struggles. These books, written by some of the most celebrated authors, deliver emotionally resonant tales that capture the LGBTQ+ experience across various genres. Whether you’re looking for romance, drama, or fantastical worlds, this list of the top 10 best books in LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction has something for everyone.
Jordan Hayes
Jordan Hayes is an experienced journalist and literary critic with a deep passion for exploring diverse narratives. Specializing in LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction, Jordan provides thoughtful insights into the most impactful books in this space. With over 15 years of experience, Jordan brings a fresh and informed perspective to every review.
Must-Read LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction for Every Reader
From contemporary classics to new voices, LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction offers an eclectic mix of stories. Whether you’re new to the genre or a seasoned reader, these 10 books will take you on an unforgettable journey, shedding light on different perspectives and experiences. Let’s dive into the list of top LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction books, ranked from 10th to 1st.
10. We the Animals
Author: Justin Torres
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2 out of 5 stars, 1,764 reviews)
Why You’ll Love It: We the Animals is a raw, poetic exploration of family, identity, and the struggles of growing up in a chaotic household. Torres presents an emotionally charged narrative centered on three brothers, one of whom discovers his queerness amidst the turmoil of their upbringing. The book’s intensity and lyrical prose make it a standout.
Fun Fact: We the Animals was adapted into a film in 2018, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to rave reviews.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
9. The Unfinished Line
Author: Jen Lyon
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9 out of 5 stars, 122 reviews)
Why We Chose It: The Unfinished Line is a heartwarming yet intense romance between two athletes navigating their careers and personal lives. Lyon’s storytelling excels in portraying the internal conflicts of identity and acceptance within the framework of competitive sports.
Fun Fact: This book is part of a larger series that delves into various LGBTQ+ narratives within different professions and personal journeys.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
8. The House in the Cerulean Sea
Author: TJ Klune
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 56,104 reviews)
Why You’ll Love It: This whimsical, heartwarming fantasy takes readers into a magical orphanage where a government worker tasked with assessing the facility learns more about himself than he ever expected. Klune’s writing masterfully blends magic with themes of acceptance and love.
Fun Fact: Klune was inspired to write this novel after the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage, and the themes of love and acceptance shine through every page.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
7. The Once and Future Witches
Author: Alix E. Harrow
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5 out of 5 stars, 9,927 reviews)
Why We Chose It: Harrow’s spellbinding tale combines feminist themes with LGBTQ+ elements, blending historical fiction and fantasy. It tells the story of three witch sisters fighting for their rights in a patriarchal society, while love, both straight and queer, plays a central role.
Fun Fact: Harrow is known for her love of fairytales, and this book intertwines traditional stories of witches with a unique, modern twist.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
6. Somewhere Beyond the Sea: Cerulean Chronicles, Book 2
Author: TJ Klune
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 2,356 reviews)
Why You’ll Love It: Klune’s talent for creating magical worlds with deep emotional connections shines again in this installment of the Cerulean Chronicles. It’s an enchanting read that combines LGBTQ+ themes with a fantastical adventure, making it a compelling sequel to his previous works.
Fun Fact: TJ Klune has become a powerhouse in LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction, winning multiple awards for his contributions to the genre.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
5. The Goldfinch: A Novel
Author: Donna Tartt
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1 out of 5 stars, 126,871 reviews)
Why We Chose It: This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel dives deep into themes of loss, obsession, and the complexities of identity. Though not primarily an LGBTQ+ book, it offers significant queer undertones that resonate with many readers, making it a notable entry in the genre.
Fun Fact: The Goldfinch was adapted into a feature film in 2019, further broadening its impact and readership.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
4. The Mercenary’s Guide to Mishaps and Romance (The Hitman’s Guide, Book 7)
Author: Alice Winters
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8 out of 5 stars, 187 reviews)
Why You’ll Love It: Winters delivers another knockout romance with this thrilling and humorous entry in the Hitman’s Guide series. Mixing comedy with action, it’s an irresistible page-turner that offers both LGBTQ+ representation and an engaging plot.
Fun Fact: The Hitman’s Guide series has garnered a cult following, particularly for its laugh-out-loud humor and lovable characters.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
3. The House in the Cerulean Sea
Author: TJ Klune
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 56,104 reviews)
Why We Chose It: It’s hard not to include Klune twice on this list. The House in the Cerulean Sea remains one of the most beloved books in LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction. Its story of a man discovering both love and a found family in an unusual orphanage captures the heart.
Fun Fact: This book has won several LGBTQ+ fiction awards and remains a fan favorite across multiple genres.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
2. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: A Novel
Author: Alma Cuervo
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 239,868 reviews)
Why You’ll Love It: A glamorous and scandalous Hollywood love story that reveals the deeply hidden truth about Evelyn Hugo’s relationships, particularly her life-defining same-sex love affair. This novel is a rich, emotional read that touches on bisexual identity, fame, and self-discovery.
Fun Fact: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is being adapted into a Netflix film, which has already created huge anticipation among fans.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
1. Somewhere Beyond the Sea: Cerulean Chronicles, Book 2
Author: TJ Klune
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6 out of 5 stars, 2,356 reviews)
Why We Chose It: Topping our list is Klune’s brilliant sequel to the Cerulean Chronicles. Somewhere Beyond the Sea is an enchanting tale that mixes romance, fantasy, and deeply resonant LGBTQ+ themes. The writing is filled with warmth, humor, and profound insights into human connection.
Fun Fact: Klune’s works have been optioned for TV adaptations, and fans are eager to see these beloved characters come to life on screen.
Category: LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction
Find Your Next LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction Favorite
Whether you’re looking for your next great read or a gift for a friend, LGBTQ+ Genre Fiction has something for everyone. Explore the rich, diverse world of stories that celebrate love, identity, and adventure.
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