The genre of LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers has grown significantly, offering suspense-filled plots that bring representation to the forefront. Whether you’re seeking a mystery to keep you on edge or a thriller that dives deep into complex characters, this top 10 list will introduce you to the best LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers. Explore a range of plots and characters that break boundaries while providing gripping, heart-pounding stories. LGBTQ+ Mysteries and Thrillers rocks!
By: Dana Carter
Dana Carter is a crime fiction enthusiast with a particular passion for inclusive literature. With a background in LGBTQ+ studies and mystery writing, Dana brings years of expertise in curating the best reads in the genre.
10. I Was A Cheerleader for the FBI
Author: Melanie Brown
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
44 Ratings
This thrilling, fast-paced novel is filled with intrigue and surprising twists. Melanie Brown crafts a suspenseful world where a young FBI recruit infiltrates an underground criminal organization while grappling with her queer identity.
Why We Chose It:
I Was A Cheerleader for the FBI blends an exciting storyline with rich, multidimensional characters. Brown’s writing pulls you in from the very first page, making it a must-read in LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers.
Fun Fact:
The author drew from real FBI cases and weaved them into the fictional plot, giving the story an extra layer of authenticity.
Get I Was A Cheerleader for the FBI here on Amazon.
9. Consort of the Crime Queen (The Underworld Duet: A Sapphic Mafia Romance Book 2)
Author: Persephone Black
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
680 Ratings
This intense, mafia-themed thriller is the sequel to Captive of the Crime Queen. In this book, the characters delve deeper into the dark world of organized crime, where love and loyalty collide.
Why We Chose It:
Persephone Black’s writing is sharp and thrilling, with a focus on strong female leads. The romance is powerful, but the mystery and suspense steal the show, making this a standout in LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers.
Fun Fact:
This book has garnered a massive online following, with fans particularly obsessed with the dynamic between the two lead characters.
Buy Consort of the Crime Queen here on Amazon.
8. The System (Fire Universe Book 4)
Author: Nicole Pyland
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
228 Ratings
This dystopian mystery set in a not-so-distant future involves a world where everyone is constantly under surveillance. Pyland weaves an intricate plot of deception, rebellion, and unexpected love.
Why We Chose It:
The System keeps you hooked with its fast pace and unique take on a surveillance society. The characters are well-developed, with LGBTQ+ representation throughout, making it a solid choice for LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers.
Fun Fact:
Nicole Pyland is known for creating vivid dystopian worlds, with The System being a fan favorite in her LGBTQ+ thrillers series.
Grab The System here on Amazon.
7. Two Marlboros: A Slow-Burn M/M Romance
Author: Simona Francini
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4/5)
47 Ratings
Two Marlboros combines mystery and romance in a story about a detective who must solve a murder case in a small town while balancing a budding romantic relationship with a key witness. The book is rich in tension, both romantic and suspenseful.
Why We Chose It:
The slow-burn romance, coupled with a compelling murder mystery, creates a perfect mix for fans of LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers. Francini’s pacing is excellent, making this book a gripping read from start to finish.
Fun Fact:
Simona Francini based the small-town setting on her own hometown, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the story.
Buy Two Marlboros here on Amazon.
6. Captive of the Crime Queen (The Underworld Duet: A Sapphic Mafia Romance Book 1)
Author: Persephone Black
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
846 Ratings
The first in the Underworld Duet, this book follows two women from opposing sides of the law. It’s a gritty, high-stakes thriller filled with passion and intrigue, perfect for fans of sapphic romances.
Why We Chose It:
Persephone Black brings a unique voice to the world of LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers with her mafia-centric plots and fierce protagonists. The tension is palpable in both the action and romance.
Fun Fact:
The Underworld Duet is one of the best-selling sapphic mafia series, with readers praising the balance between crime drama and romance.
Get Captive of the Crime Queen here on Amazon.
5. Power of the Mind (Shadowy Solutions Book 2)
Author: Nicky James
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
356 Ratings
The second book in the Shadowy Solutions series, Power of the Mind explores a complex relationship between two detectives investigating a series of bizarre crimes while wrestling with their own demons.
Why We Chose It:
Nicky James knows how to balance tension and emotion, making this an intense read in LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers. The characters are relatable, and the mystery is both unique and haunting.
Fun Fact:
Nicky James has a dedicated fan base who eagerly await each new installment in the Shadowy Solutions series.
Buy Power of the Mind here on Amazon.
4. Concealment (Alex and Cassidy Book 8)
Author: Nancy Ann Healy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
122 Ratings
Nancy Ann Healy delivers a fast-paced espionage thriller that follows two secret agents navigating a web of lies, betrayal, and unexpected romance.
Why We Chose It:
Concealment stands out for its intricate plot and engaging characters. It’s a refreshing mix of political intrigue and romance, making it a must-read for lovers of LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers.
Fun Fact:
Nancy Ann Healy based parts of this book on real-life espionage cases, adding authenticity to the suspenseful narrative.
Get Concealment here on Amazon.
3. Death in Douglas Glade (The Milverton Mysteries Book 3)
Author: G B Ralph
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5)
26 Ratings
This cozy mystery centers around a small town shaken by a murder. G B Ralph mixes humor with tension in a story about two amateur detectives uncovering dark secrets.
Why We Chose It:
This book adds a lighter tone to the list, combining humor with an intriguing mystery, making it a standout in LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers. Ralph’s writing is sharp, and the characters are loveable.
Fun Fact:
Death in Douglas Glade is part of a series, with each book offering a standalone mystery, but fans recommend reading them in order.
Buy Death in Douglas Glade here on Amazon.
2. Sweet: An MM Romance Thriller
Author: Howl Avery
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4/5)
88 Ratings
This romantic thriller follows two men thrown together by a dangerous situation. Sparks fly, but so do bullets, in this pulse-pounding mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Why We Chose It:
Howl Avery’s combination of action and romance creates a compelling read for fans of LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers. The chemistry between the characters is undeniable, making it a thrilling ride.
Fun Fact:
Sweet was initially written as a standalone, but due to popular demand, Avery is planning a sequel.
1. Jones
Author: Gerri Hill
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
86 Ratings
This gripping mystery follows a seasoned detective who must uncover the truth behind a series of high-profile murders while confronting her own personal struggles. Gerri Hill’s masterful storytelling will keep you hooked until the last page.
Why We Chose It:
Hill’s ability to intertwine personal narratives with a captivating mystery makes Jones a top pick for fans of LGBTQ+ mysteries and thrillers. It’s a perfect balance of character development and suspense.
Fun Fact:
Gerri Hill is a prolific author in the genre, with over 30 published works, making her a well-known name among fans of LGBTQ+ fiction.
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