12 Romance Books With Lgbtq+ Representation
Love is love, and romance novels have finally embraced the dazzling spectrum of LGBTQ+ relationships, delivering breathtaking stories filled with passion, heartbreak, and swoon-worthy moments. Whether you’re looking for slow-burning tension, enemies-to-lovers chaos, or grand gestures that make your heart ache in the best way, these twelve books celebrate the beauty of queer love in all its forms.
From contemporary rom-coms to historical slow burns and magical fantasies, these stories will have you laughing, crying, and believing in love all over again.
1. Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
For fans of: Enemies-to-lovers, political drama, and witty banter
When the son of the President of the United States, Alex Claremont-Diaz, is forced to fake a friendship with Prince Henry of Wales to defuse a media scandal, the sparks between them are undeniable. What starts as a political maneuver quickly ignites into a fiery romance full of passion, vulnerability, and heart-stopping chemistry. Alex and Henry’s journey toward love is filled with both personal growth and world-shaking stakes.
💖 Why it’s unforgettable: Casey McQuiston’s delightful writing, sharp humor, and the electric tension between Alex and Henry make this story impossible to put down. The chemistry between the two characters practically jumps off the page, and their love story is equal parts swoon-worthy and empowering.
2. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
For fans of: Historical romance, epic love stories, and ancient gods
Set against the backdrop of the Trojan War, The Song of Achilles is a heartbreaking tale of love, loyalty, and destiny between Patroclus and Achilles. Their bond, transcending time and myth, is tender, passionate, and ultimately tragic. As the story weaves between fierce battlefields and intimate moments, the intense, all-consuming love they share will leave readers breathless.
💔 Why it’s haunting: This book is a slow burn, building up a deep emotional connection that culminates in an epic, heart-wrenching finale. The love between Patroclus and Achilles is one of history’s greatest love stories—and Miller’s lyrical prose makes it all the more moving.
3. Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
For fans of: Coming-of-age, high school drama, and sweet first loves
Simon Spier’s life is turned upside down when his secret as a gay teenager is threatened to be exposed. As he navigates his own coming out and tries to save his privacy, Simon embarks on a charming, funny, and sometimes awkward journey of self-discovery. With his budding romance with Blue, an anonymous classmate, Simon’s journey from fear to acceptance is one full of heart, humor, and tender moments.
🌈 Why it’s relatable: Simon is every bit of a normal teen—dealing with love, awkwardness, and the complexities of growing up. His romance with Blue feels genuine and full of warmth, reminding readers that love is universal, no matter who you are.
4. They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
For fans of: Heartbreaking romances, deep emotional connections, and fate
In a world where death is predicted by a mysterious service, Mateo and Rufus receive a call informing them that they have just one day left to live. The two strangers, living their final day, forge a beautiful, all-consuming love story as they explore life’s most intimate moments and their own regrets. In their final hours, they live more fully than many ever do.
💔 Why it’s gut-wrenching: Silvera’s exploration of love in the face of death is both poignant and devastating. The depth of emotion between Mateo and Rufus makes this a love story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
5. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
For fans of: Slow-burn romances, self-discovery, and poignant family dynamics
Set in the 1980s, this beautifully written novel follows Aristotle and Dante, two Mexican-American boys whose friendship blossoms into something much deeper. As they navigate their individual journeys of identity, family expectations, and their emerging love for one another, the story unfolds with tenderness and emotional depth.
🌌 Why it’s profound: The slow and careful evolution of Aristotle and Dante’s relationship is nothing short of magical. Sáenz captures the wonder of first love, and the story’s exploration of cultural identity, family, and personal growth makes it deeply resonant for many readers.
6. The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee
For fans of: Adventure, historical romance, and bold characters
Monty, an aristocratic young man with a rebellious streak, embarks on a grand tour of Europe with his best friend (and secret crush), Percy. What begins as a romp filled with mischief and scandal quickly spirals into an adventure that tests their courage, love, and loyalty. Monty and Percy’s romance is laced with humor, passion, and the ever-present tension of Monty’s fear of fully embracing his identity.
🌟 Why it’s enchanting: Lee’s writing brings Monty and Percy’s chemistry to life, and their love story is full of both comic moments and deeply heartfelt confessions. This historical romp is a thrilling ride that will leave you laughing, swooning, and cheering for love in all its forms.
7. One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston
For fans of: Time travel, forbidden love, and quirky characters
When August meets Jane on the subway, their connection is instant—electric, magnetic, undeniable. But Jane has a secret: she’s from the 1970s, magically stuck in time. As August falls deeper for Jane, she must navigate the complexities of their impossible romance while uncovering the mystery of how Jane got there and whether their love can survive time itself.
⏳ Why it’s captivating: McQuiston’s signature witty writing and emotional depth shine in this love story. The romance is heartfelt, the stakes are high, and the chemistry between August and Jane is intoxicating. Their impossible love story is both funny and poignant, a whirlwind of emotions.
8. The Midnight Lie by Marie Rutkoski
For fans of: Political intrigue, forbidden magic, and slow-burn romance
In a world where class divides are strictly enforced, Nirrim’s life is marked by poverty and oppression. When she meets a mysterious woman named Sid, everything Nirrim believes about herself and her world is thrown into question. As the two women uncover dark secrets, they discover a forbidden romance that blossoms amidst rebellion and magic.
⚡ Why it’s unforgettable: Rutkoski creates a world that feels both fantastical and painfully real. The romance between Nirrim and Sid is magnetic, and their relationship grows in an atmosphere of suspense, adventure, and emotional growth.
9. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
For fans of: Old Hollywood glamour, scandal, and complicated love stories
Evelyn Hugo, a reclusive Hollywood icon, chooses Monique, a struggling journalist, to write her life story. As Evelyn recounts her seven marriages, Monique begins to unravel the complex truth behind her relationships, including a passionate and forbidden love affair with another woman that shaped the trajectory of Evelyn’s entire life.
💋 Why it’s scandalous: Evelyn’s unapologetic pursuit of love, power, and happiness in a world that tried to stifle her will have you captivated. Her tale is one of fierce independence, secrecy, and unapologetic passion, making this a love story you won’t forget.
10. Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman
For fans of: Intense summer romance, heart-wrenching longing, and passion
In the heat of a summer in northern Italy, Elio, a teenager, falls for Oliver, a graduate student living with his family. Their relationship is intense, passionate, and fleeting, marked by moments of longing, uncertainty, and desire. Aciman’s lyrical writing captures the fragility of their love and the ache of what could have been.
🌞 Why it’s timeless: The slow burn of Elio and Oliver’s relationship is one that feels both visceral and emotional. This is a love story that burns hot, but is ultimately tragic, and its bittersweetness will linger long after the last page.
11. The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers
For fans of: Sci-fi, found families, and quiet love stories
In a universe where humanity is just one species among many, the Wayfarer crew—diverse, quirky, and united in their search for purpose—includes two women, Sissix and Rosemary, whose deep, understated love story unfolds gently across the stars. Their romance isn’t just about grand gestures but about the quiet, everyday moments that make love special.
🚀 Why it’s heartwarming: The beauty of their love lies in its normalcy amidst the vastness of space. This is a love story built on mutual respect, trust, and the simple joy of being with someone who sees you for who you truly are.
12. The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
For fans of: Found family, magical realism, and heartwarming love stories
Linus Baker, a by-the-book government worker, is assigned to oversee a group of magical children at an orphanage on a remote island. Among the eccentric children is Arthur, the charismatic and mysterious caretaker, with whom Linus forms a deep and transformative bond. Their connection grows amidst heartwarming moments, magic, and personal revelations.
🏡 Why it’s magical: Linus and Arthur’s love story is subtle, yet profound, blooming in a world of magic and uncertainty. This book is a love letter to found families, acceptance, and the beauty of unconventional relationships.
Which romance book made your heart race?
