Author: Charlie R. Sinclair
Charlie R. Sinclair is an avid reader and reviewer of all things speculative fiction, with a keen interest in LGBTQ+ Science Fiction. Charlie’s passion for inclusive narratives in sci-fi has led to discovering the best books in this growing genre.
LGBTQ+ Science Fiction blends imaginative futures, otherworldly technology, and explorations of identity and love. These stories create space for characters who challenge norms and embrace diversity in a futuristic or speculative context. Whether you’re looking for space operas, dystopian settings, or inclusive anthologies, these 10 top picks represent some of the best LGBTQ+ Science Fiction. Here’s a breakdown from 10th to 1st.
Table of Contents
10. Little Mushroom: Judgment Day
Shisi
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9 out of 5 stars (874 ratings)
Little Mushroom: Judgment Day is the final book in this heart-wrenching LGBTQ+ science fiction series, where survival and loyalty are tested in an apocalyptic world. The storyline delves into the complex relationship between two men as they navigate the human and the inhuman.
Why You’ll Love It: With compelling character arcs and stunning world-building, this book offers a thought-provoking journey through a future dystopia, driven by emotional and romantic undertones.
Fun Fact: Little Mushroom has become a cult favorite among fans of slow-burn sci-fi romances. Its popularity has spurred fan translations and artwork across social media.
Buy Little Mushroom: Judgment Day on Amazon
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
9. Little Mushroom: Revelations (Little Mushroom, 2)
Shisi
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (553 ratings)
The second installment of the Little Mushroom series continues to explore survival in a post-apocalyptic world, with a deeper focus on the evolving relationship between the protagonists. Shisi paints a bleak yet hopeful world full of complexities.
Why We Chose It: The depth of character development and immersive plot makes Revelations stand out. It’s the perfect follow-up for readers who enjoyed the first book’s balance of emotional stakes and survival.
Fun Fact: This series has become a runaway success in the niche LGBTQ+ Science Fiction genre, amassing fans from around the globe.
Buy Little Mushroom: Revelations on Amazon
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
8. The Last Gifts of the Universe: A Novel
Riley August
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 out of 5 stars (251 ratings)
This novel offers a thrilling journey through space with a focus on preserving the remnants of lost civilizations. The Last Gifts of the Universe is a touching exploration of grief, hope, and the fragile beauty of life, all told through a queer protagonist’s lens.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re drawn to introspective space operas with high emotional stakes, this book is for you. Riley August’s storytelling is poetic and leaves a lasting impression.
Fun Fact: The intricate world-building in this novel has drawn comparisons to classic sci-fi greats, but with a refreshing and much-needed queer twist.
Buy The Last Gifts of the Universe on Amazon
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
7. Bury Your Gays
Chuck Tingle
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (352 ratings)
Known for his humorous yet poignant writing, Chuck Tingle breaks new ground in Bury Your Gays, a sci-fi adventure that explores queer identity and existential threats. Expect a story packed with unexpected turns and deep emotional resonance.
Why We Chose It: Tingle’s unique voice and unabashed embrace of LGBTQ+ themes make this a memorable read. It’s simultaneously fun and meaningful.
Fun Fact: Chuck Tingle has built a reputation for his satirical takes on sci-fi tropes, but in this novel, he strikes a balance between humor and heartfelt storytelling.
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
6. The Galaxy, and the Ground Within: A Novel (Wayfarers Book 4)
Becky Chambers
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (7,908 ratings)
Becky Chambers’ Wayfarers series has become a staple in LGBTQ+ Science Fiction, and The Galaxy, and the Ground Within is no exception. This novel focuses on the quiet moments of connection and empathy between a diverse cast of characters, including queer identities.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re a fan of character-driven stories with heartwarming relationships, this book is a must-read. Chambers excels in portraying queer and nonbinary characters with depth and care.
Fun Fact: Chambers has been praised for her gentle yet powerful approach to storytelling, with a clear emphasis on inclusivity and diverse perspectives.
Buy The Galaxy, and the Ground Within on Amazon
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
5. Other Terrors: An Inclusive Anthology
Vince A. Liaguno
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 out of 5 stars (53 ratings)
This anthology showcases a variety of voices, exploring fear and identity through speculative fiction. Other Terrors offers a broad range of stories with a focus on marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ characters.
Why We Chose It: Anthologies are a fantastic way to discover new voices, and this collection highlights the importance of representation in speculative fiction.
Fun Fact: Other Terrors was edited by award-winning author Vince A. Liaguno, who has long been an advocate for diversity in the horror and sci-fi genres.
Buy Other Terrors: An Inclusive Anthology on Amazon
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
4. Some Desperate Glory
Emily Tesh
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (2,287 ratings)
Some Desperate Glory follows Kyr, one of the last remaining humans, as she navigates war, identity, and rebellion in a galaxy torn apart by conflict. This novel is a sharp and exciting addition to LGBTQ+ Science Fiction, with strong queer representation.
Why You’ll Love It: Emily Tesh’s world-building is phenomenal, creating a universe that feels both lived-in and endlessly intriguing. The protagonist’s journey is intense, making it impossible to put down.
Fun Fact: Some Desperate Glory has been praised for subverting traditional sci-fi tropes while placing LGBTQ+ characters at the forefront of the narrative.
Buy Some Desperate Glory on Amazon
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
3. Bury Your Gays
Chuck Tingle
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (352 ratings)
A second feature for Bury Your Gays in our top 10 due to its impact and storytelling. Chuck Tingle’s work has become a defining voice in LGBTQ+ Science Fiction, blending humor, romance, and existential dread.
Why We Chose It Again: Tingle’s bold narrative choices and unique approach to queer storytelling make this book a must-have for fans of speculative fiction.
Fun Fact: Tingle is well-known for self-publishing, yet he’s built a loyal fanbase and earned critical acclaim through his authentic storytelling.
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
2. The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet: Wayfarers, Book 1
Becky Chambers
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (26,813 ratings)
The first book in Becky Chambers’ beloved Wayfarers series, The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet introduces readers to a diverse crew aboard a spacefaring vessel. The book deftly explores queer identities while tackling themes of acceptance, belonging, and survival.
Why You’ll Love It: With vibrant characters and an engaging plot, this book delivers a thoughtful and inclusive story about what it means to be human—or not.
Fun Fact: This novel was originally crowdfunded, showcasing the power of community support for queer storytelling.
Buy The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet on Amazon
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
1. Some Desperate Glory
Emily Tesh
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (2,287 ratings)
Topping our list is Some Desperate Glory again for its heart-pounding narrative and unforgettable characters. Emily Tesh weaves a tale of resistance, identity, and love in a universe on the brink of collapse.
Why We Chose It: It’s rare to find a book that combines intense action, complex characters, and rich emotional stakes as seamlessly as this one does. It’s a standout in LGBTQ+ Science Fiction.
Fun Fact: Some Desperate Glory was one of the most anticipated LGBTQ+ sci-fi releases in recent years and has already gained a loyal following.
Buy Some Desperate Glory on Amazon
Category: LGBTQ+ Science Fiction
Check out some more Top10 categories www.top10books.org
“As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”