5 LGBT Books to Get You Started on Your Reading Journey

Feature LGBTQ

2023-07-18
13:32

With the film adaptation of ‘Red, White, and Royal Blue’ on the way, interest in LGBT novels is on the rise.

Aside from the aforementioned one, however, it might be hard to find a good starting point. Luckily for you, this list has got you covered! Whether you’re looking for tales of romance or stories tackling other aspects of LGBT life, you might just find your next reading recommendation here.

The Song of Achilles – Madeline Miller

While you may have heard of Achilles and Patroclus, this novel shows another side of them from that of the classic Greek poem The Iliad. While it takes the basic foundations of their story, being two boys with a strong bond who joined the fight in the Trojan War, The Song of Achilles gives extra attention to the bond of these two, which eventually develops into romance. If you’re a fan of Greek mythology or grew up with Percy Jackson, this one might be for you.

They Both Die at the End – Adam Silvera

In a world where you are informed on the day of your death that it will be your last, how will you spend your last moments? This question is posed to Mateo and Rufus when they receive phone calls from Death-Cast. While they both initially had different plans, their paths crossed and a bond began to form between them. Feelings enter the picture as well, but how will they express those emotions with such little time left? If the topics of love and mortality pique your interest, consider picking this one up.

Solitaire – Alice Oseman

While this story takes place in the same universe as Heartstopper, following Charlie’s older sister Tori, who is on the aro-ace spectrum, it is quite different from the graphic novels and Netflix series you may be familiar with. Tori’s story in this novel revolves around the various issues she faces in relation to her family, friends, and a concerning group of pranksters. Much heavier in tone than the Heartstopper we all know and love, but equally well-written, this might be a good starting point if you are interested in stories concerning mental health issues or if you would like to know more about the world of Heartstopper outside of just Nick and Charlie.

Written in the Stars – Alexandria Bellefleur

This sapphic romance follows Darcy and Elle, two ladies who agree to pretend to be in a relationship following a blind date thanks to Darcy being sick of her brother’s endless attempts to find someone for her. Elle, on the other hand, is more than ready to find the one for her, but doubts it would be Darcy given their starkly contrasting personalities. It seems the stars have other plans for them, however, as their fake relationship becomes something more. If you’d like to join Darcy and Elle on their story, be sure to pick up a copy of this novel!

Act Cool – Tobly McSmith

With dreams of becoming an actor, August hopes to move to New York to further his career. There’s just one problem, however: he is a trans teen whose parents will only allow him to leave for the big city if he agrees not to transition. This leaves him in a delicate balancing act of following his dreams while also being true to his identity. With this dilemma complicating things, how will August manage life in the big city? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

Do you have other books you want to add to the list? Comment which ones it is so we can share it with others!