LGBTQ+ thrillers offer readers the excitement of mystery, suspense, and drama, all while representing diverse voices and relationships. If you’re looking for intense plot twists, complex characters, and heart-pounding action, this list will introduce you to the best LGBTQ+ thrillers available. From psychological games to political corruption, these novels deliver in every way, making them must-reads for any thriller enthusiast.
By: Casey Monroe
Casey Monroe is a passionate thriller reviewer with a special focus on LGBTQ+ stories. With a decade of experience in journalism, Monroe brings sharp insights into the world of mystery, suspense, and crime novels.
10. Thirst Quenched (The Unwilling Adventures of Harlow and Foxx Book 4)
Author: Shelby Rhodes
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
207 Ratings
In Thirst Quenched, Harlow and Foxx find themselves caught up in a supernatural mystery. As the duo navigates through a world of magic and deceit, they must confront their own personal demons to survive. Shelby Rhodes delivers a captivating blend of thriller and fantasy.
Why We Chose It:
The combination of suspenseful thriller elements and supernatural themes sets this novel apart. Its rich characters and world-building make it an exciting read for any lover of LGBTQ+ thrillers.
Fun Fact:
The Unwilling Adventures series was inspired by Shelby Rhodes’ love for adventure stories and paranormal mysteries.
Get Thirst Quenched here on Amazon.
Category: LGBTQ+ Thrillers
9. The Starving Saints: A Novel
Author: Caitlin Starling
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
1,139 Ratings
The Starving Saints is an intense thriller that delves deep into the dangerous world of cults and fanaticism. As the protagonist tries to escape from the grasp of a sinister religious group, she uncovers deadly secrets that challenge her beliefs and put her life at risk.
Why We Chose It:
Caitlin Starling masterfully balances tension and emotional depth in this haunting thriller. The exploration of religion and power dynamics adds complexity to the plot, making it a standout among LGBTQ+ thrillers.
Fun Fact:
Starling spent months researching cult behaviors to accurately portray the psychological manipulation depicted in the novel.
Grab The Starving Saints here on Amazon.
Category: LGBTQ+ Thrillers
8. And There He Kept Her: A Novel (Ben Packard Book 1)
Author: Joshua Moehling
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2/5)
1,428 Ratings
In this gripping novel, Ben Packard investigates a small-town mystery with horrifying consequences. The tension builds as secrets come to light, and Packard must navigate through deception and betrayal. Moehling creates a layered thriller that keeps readers on edge until the final page.
Why We Chose It:
This book is a true page-turner, with unexpected twists and a compelling LGBTQ+ lead. Its engaging plot and chilling atmosphere make it a top choice for fans of psychological thrillers.
Fun Fact:
Joshua Moehling drew inspiration from real-life cold cases when writing And There He Kept Her.
Buy And There He Kept Her here on Amazon.
Category: LGBTQ+ Thrillers
7. A Lonely Broadcast: Book One
Author: Kel Byron
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4/5)
497 Ratings
In a post-apocalyptic world, one man broadcasts his life to the remnants of humanity. As he navigates the dangers of a collapsing society, he becomes entangled in a web of violence and political intrigue. Byron’s writing is dark, thrilling, and packed with tension.
Why We Chose It:
This book’s unique premise and bleak atmosphere make it a standout among LGBTQ+ thrillers. Its thought-provoking commentary on survival and media keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
Fun Fact:
Kel Byron originally wrote A Lonely Broadcast as a short story, which was expanded into a full novel after popular demand.
Get A Lonely Broadcast here on Amazon.
Category: LGBTQ+ Thrillers
6. Intersection (Alex and Cassidy Book 1)
Author: Nancy Ann Healy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
1,162 Ratings
Intersection is a captivating political thriller that introduces readers to Alex and Cassidy, two women caught in a world of espionage, danger, and conspiracy. As they navigate treacherous political landscapes, they must also confront their complicated relationship.
Why We Chose It:
Healy’s ability to blend action, political drama, and romance into a seamless narrative makes this book a top pick for LGBTQ+ thrillers. The chemistry between the leads adds an emotional depth to the high-stakes plot.
Fun Fact:
Nancy Ann Healy worked as a political journalist before turning to fiction, which is why her political thrillers feel so authentic.
Buy Intersection here on Amazon.
Category: LGBTQ+ Thrillers
5. They Never Learn
Author: Layne Fargo
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2/5)
6,750 Ratings
In They Never Learn, we follow the story of a professor-turned-vigilante who targets sexual predators. As her murderous spree continues, her carefully constructed double life begins to unravel. Fargo’s writing is sharp, fast-paced, and full of moral complexity.
Why We Chose It:
This book is a refreshing take on revenge thrillers with a strong LGBTQ+ protagonist. The ethical dilemmas and unflinching portrayal of justice make it an intense, thought-provoking read.
Fun Fact:
Fargo was inspired by true crime stories and the #MeToo movement when crafting the protagonist’s vigilante arc.
Grab They Never Learn here on Amazon.
4. Commitment (Alex and Cassidy Book 3)
Author: Nancy Ann Healy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
806 Ratings
Commitment continues the thrilling saga of Alex and Cassidy as they dive deeper into international intrigue. This time, their relationship is tested by the ever-increasing dangers they face. Healy excels in creating both tension and tenderness, making this a compelling read.
Why We Chose It:
The emotional stakes in this third installment are higher than ever, with a perfect blend of action and romance. It’s an absolute must-read for fans of political and LGBTQ+ thrillers.
Fun Fact:
Nancy Ann Healy has described Alex and Cassidy as her favorite characters to write, due to their dynamic relationship.
Get Commitment here on Amazon.
3. Fingersmith
Author: Sarah Waters
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.1/5)
8,339 Ratings
Fingersmith is a historical thriller that takes readers through a labyrinth of deception and betrayal in Victorian England. Sarah Waters’ intricate plotting and vivid characterization make this novel a gripping exploration of crime and identity.
Why We Chose It:
This book stands out for its richly detailed world and unpredictable twists. Waters masterfully combines historical fiction with the suspense of a psychological thriller.
Fun Fact:
Fingersmith was adapted into an award-winning BBC series and later inspired the South Korean film The Handmaiden.
Buy Fingersmith here on Amazon.
2. The Senator’s Widow
Author: Aoibh Wood
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
232 Ratings
This political thriller plunges readers into a world of corruption, power, and secrets. As a widow uncovers shocking truths about her late husband’s career, she must decide how far she is willing to go to expose the truth.
Why We Chose It:
Wood’s novel delivers a gripping plot that explores moral ambiguity and political intrigue. The tension builds as readers are kept guessing until the end.
Fun Fact:
Aoibh Wood consulted with political insiders to ensure the authenticity of the novel’s political backdrop.
Get The Senator’s Widow here on Amazon.
1. Concealment (Alex and Cassidy Book 8)
Author: Nancy Ann Healy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
122 Ratings
The eighth book in the Alex and Cassidy series, Concealment, takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with espionage and personal revelations. The stakes are higher than ever as Alex and Cassidy must uncover a plot that threatens national security.
Why We Chose It:
Healy’s ability to keep her characters fresh and exciting after eight books is a testament to her skill as a writer. This installment is one of the best LGBTQ+ thrillers, combining emotional depth with high-octane action.
Fun Fact:
Nancy Ann Healy’s Alex and Cassidy series has been praised for its realistic portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships in high-stakes environments.
Buy Concealment here on Amazon.
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