Fantasy literature has long been a place of escapism and wonder, where readers immerse themselves in magical worlds, epic quests, and legendary creatures. However, for many, the representation of LGBTQIA+ characters within these fantastical realms has been noticeably absent or superficial. As readers and writers alike push for a more inclusive approach, it’s become clear that LGBTQIA+ fantasy matters—offering narratives that reflect diverse experiences and provide a richer, more authentic picture of the human condition.
Why LGBTQIA+ Fantasy Matters
For too long, traditional fantasy has been dominated by cisgender, heterosexual protagonists, leaving little room for marginalized groups to see themselves in the stories they love. This lack of representation not only reinforces outdated stereotypes but also denies LGBTQIA+ individuals the opportunity to relate to characters whose struggles, victories, and identities mirror their own. Well-crafted LGBTQIA+ fantasy stories offer readers a chance to feel seen and understood, while also broadening the scope of fantasy literature to include a variety of voices and perspectives. These stories do not merely check a box for diversity; they are integral to expanding the genre’s emotional depth and cultural relevance.
Purpose of the Article
In this article, we’ll highlight a curated list of underrated LGBTQIA+ fantasy novels that deserve more attention. These gems may not be household names, but they offer compelling, diverse, and magical worlds where LGBTQIA+ characters take center stage. Whether you’re new to the genre or a seasoned reader, these books will expand your fantasy horizons and provide a much-needed sense of belonging within fantastical realms.
“The House in the Cerulean Sea”
– Author and Release Year: T.J. Klune, released in 2020.
– Summary:The House in the Cerulean Sea follows Linus Baker, a mild-mannered government worker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth (DICOMY). He’s assigned to investigate an orphanage on a mysterious island where six magical children live, including a shape-shifting girl, a boy who can control the weather, and the devil’s own son. As Linus gets to know the children and their caretaker, Arthur Parnassus, he begins to question everything he knows about the world, society, and what truly matters in life.
– Why it’s Underrated: Despite the book receiving positive reviews, it’s often overshadowed by other fantasy works, particularly those in the mainstream. The combination of whimsical world-building with deeply emotional themes of belonging and acceptance deserves more attention. T.J. Klune’s storytelling is charming and heartfelt, yet The House in the Cerulean Sea is frequently left out of discussions about contemporary fantasy. It’s a book that balances both adventure and introspection, making it a rewarding read for a wide range of audiences.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation: The book features strong LGBTQIA+ representation through the central romantic relationship between Linus and Arthur. Their slow-burn romance is built on mutual respect and care, showcasing the power of love in challenging circumstances. The book also touches on themes of acceptance, found family, and personal growth, which resonate deeply within the LGBTQIA+ community. The relationship is portrayed with tenderness and without stereotypes, focusing on love in its purest form.
– Where to Find It:The House in the Cerulean Sea is available for purchase at major book retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores. It is also available as an audiobook and in digital formats for e-readers, including Kindle and Apple Books. For those who prefer to borrow, it can be found at local libraries or on platforms like OverDrive or Libby.
“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo”
– Author and Release Year: Taylor Jenkins Reid, released in 2017.
– Summary:The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a captivating historical fiction novel that follows the life of the enigmatic Hollywood icon, Evelyn Hugo. In her old age, Evelyn selects an unknown journalist, Monique Grant, to write her biography. As Monique delves into Evelyn’s life, she uncovers the secrets, heartbreaks, and triumphs of a woman who has lived through seven marriages, a scandalous career, and a hidden love story. The novel shifts between Evelyn’s glamorous Hollywood past and Monique’s present-day investigation, revealing complex layers of identity, love, and ambition.
– Why it’s Underrated: While Taylor Jenkins Reid’s works have gained mainstream popularity, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo remains somewhat underappreciated in wider literary circles. It’s a brilliant exploration of fame, the price of success, and the personal sacrifices made to maintain public image, yet it often doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves for its multifaceted characters and powerful emotional depth. The novel is a poignant commentary on the intersection of personal choices and public perception, with a gripping narrative that deserves a wider audience.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation: The book stands out for its rich and authentic LGBTQIA+ representation. Evelyn Hugo’s love story is intricately woven into the plot, revealing her romantic and sexual relationship with a woman, Celia St. James, in the heart of Hollywood’s oppressive, heteronormative society. Their love, while forbidden by the world around them, is depicted with intensity, vulnerability, and depth, making it a powerful exploration of queer love and the struggles faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially within the confines of fame and societal expectations. Evelyn’s journey of self-acceptance and love, regardless of societal norms, is a key theme in the book.
– Where to Find It:The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is available for purchase through major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and local independent bookstores. It is also available in digital formats, such as Kindle and Apple Books, and as an audiobook for listeners. For those who prefer borrowing, it can be found in public libraries or accessed via platforms like OverDrive and Libby.
“Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe”
– Author and Release Year: Benjamin Alire Sáenz, released in 2012.
– Summary:Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a heartfelt coming-of-age novel about two Mexican-American teenagers, Aristotle “Ari” Mendoza and Dante Quintana, who form an unexpected bond over a summer in 1987. Ari, a quiet, introspective boy, has a complicated relationship with his family and struggles with anger and identity. Dante, on the other hand, is an open and expressive boy who challenges the conventions of his cultural background. Over time, their friendship deepens, and the two boys confront their feelings for each other, navigating the complexities of identity, family, and love in a society filled with prejudice and expectations.
– Why it’s Underrated: Though Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe has received critical acclaim, it is still not as widely recognized in the broader literary community as it deserves to be. The book offers a beautiful, poignant portrayal of love and self-discovery, particularly within the context of being a person of color in America. Its exploration of identity, family dynamics, and cultural expectations provides a rich, layered narrative that goes beyond typical coming-of-age stories. The emotional depth and raw honesty in the portrayal of both personal growth and LGBTQIA+ experiences deserve more widespread attention.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation: The novel is celebrated for its sensitive and authentic LGBTQIA+ representation. Ari’s journey toward understanding his own sexuality and coming to terms with his feelings for Dante is portrayed with nuance and tenderness. Their love story is slow and patient, with neither boy fully understanding their emotions at first, but growing together in a way that reflects the complexity of young love. Their relationship challenges traditional ideas of masculinity and the expectations placed on young men, particularly within the context of their Mexican-American heritage, making it a significant and impactful narrative for queer readers and allies alike.
– Where to Find It:Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe can be found at major book retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through independent bookstores. It is available in digital formats for e-readers (Kindle, Apple Books) and as an audiobook, offering a variety of ways to enjoy the story. For those looking to borrow, the book is available at most public libraries and through digital platforms such as OverDrive or Libby.
“The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue”
– Author and Release Year: Mackenzi Lee, released in 2017.
– Summary:The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue follows the adventurous journey of Henry “Monty” Montague, a young, charming nobleman in 18th-century England, as he embarks on a grand tour of Europe with his best friend, Percy, and his younger sister, Felicity. What begins as a carefree and hedonistic journey quickly takes a turn into danger and chaos as Monty’s reckless behavior leads them into a web of political intrigue, pirates, and dark secrets. Throughout the adventure, Monty grapples with his feelings for Percy, navigating the complexities of love, family expectations, and his own sense of self.
– Why it’s Underrated: While The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue has received a considerable amount of praise, it is still somewhat overshadowed by other young adult historical fiction novels. The novel offers a fresh and witty take on the historical fiction genre, blending humor, romance, and adventure with deeper themes of identity, privilege, and self-acceptance. Its clever writing, vibrant characters, and fun historical backdrop make it a highly enjoyable read, but it still doesn’t quite receive the level of recognition it deserves compared to other works in the genre.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation: The book features rich LGBTQIA+ representation, especially in the central romance between Monty and Percy. Monty’s internal struggle with his attraction to Percy, against the backdrop of a society that condemns same-sex love, adds emotional depth to their relationship. The story explores the complexities of being a queer person in a historical setting, including the risks and societal pressures that come with it. The novel also touches on themes of bisexuality and the broader LGBTQIA+ experience, providing a nuanced portrayal of queer love and identity in a historical context.
– Where to Find It:The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue is available for purchase at major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and local independent bookstores. The book can also be found in digital formats, including Kindle and Apple Books, and is available as an audiobook. For those looking to borrow the book, it can be found in public libraries or accessed through platforms like OverDrive and Libby.
“Felix Ever After”
– Author and Release Year: Kacen Callender, released in 2020.
– Summary:Felix Ever After follows the story of Felix Love, a Black, transgender teenager navigating life in his senior year of high school. Felix is passionate about art and dreams of being accepted for who he truly is, but he faces the struggles of being invisible, dealing with bullying, and coping with the complex emotions of his transition. The plot thickens when Felix becomes the target of a cruel transphobic prank, leading him on a journey to find out who’s behind it while also confronting his own fears and insecurities about love, identity, and belonging. Along the way, Felix learns to embrace all parts of himself, navigating the ups and downs of romance, friendship, and self-acceptance.
– Why it’s Underrated: While Felix Ever After received well-deserved praise and won awards, it remains underappreciated by a broader audience. The book offers an honest, nuanced look at the life of a transgender teenager in a way that is both relatable and informative. Felix’s story stands out for its authentic portrayal of gender identity and the complexities of being a young person in today’s world, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community. Despite its critical acclaim, it doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves for breaking barriers and shedding light on experiences that are too often overlooked in mainstream young adult literature.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation: This book provides exceptional LGBTQIA+ representation, particularly around transgender experiences. Felix’s journey as a Black, transgender teenager is portrayed with empathy and depth, addressing the intersectionality of race, gender, and sexuality. The novel highlights Felix’s exploration of his identity, dealing with internal and external challenges, including his fears of not being enough in a world that is still largely unaccepting. It also features romantic elements with Felix’s own romantic interest, adding layers to the narrative of self-discovery and love within the context of the LGBTQIA+ experience. The representation in Felix Ever After is important for readers who often see their stories either misrepresented or ignored in literature.
– Where to Find It:Felix Ever After is available for purchase through major retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores. It can also be found in digital formats for e-readers, including Kindle and Apple Books, and as an audiobook for those who prefer listening. For those looking to borrow, the book is available at public libraries and can be accessed via platforms like OverDrive and Libby.
“This Is How It Always Is”
– Author and Release Year: Laurie Frankel, released in 2017.
– Summary:This Is How It Always Is centers around the Walsh family, particularly Claude, the youngest child who was assigned male at birth but knows from an early age that they are a girl. The story follows the family’s journey of supporting Claude’s transition, as well as the challenges they face in a world that isn’t always accepting of gender diversity. Through the eyes of the family, the novel explores issues of love, identity, secrecy, and acceptance, as the Walshes navigate the complexities of raising a transgender child in a world where norms and expectations can be difficult to challenge.
– Why it’s Underrated: Though This Is How It Always Is received praise for its heartfelt portrayal of a transgender experience, it remains underrated in broader literary discussions. The book provides a deeply human and tender exploration of what it means to be a family in the face of societal judgment and misunderstanding. It’s often overlooked in favor of books that directly focus on the main character’s coming-out journey or those that are more obviously political. However, Frankel’s nuanced storytelling, which balances humor with hard truths, makes it a compelling read that should be more widely recognized for its impact and depth.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation: The LGBTQIA+ representation in This Is How It Always Is is rich and thoughtful. Claude’s journey as a transgender girl is at the heart of the story, but the book also highlights the experiences of the entire family as they adjust to Claude’s needs, coming to terms with their own biases, fears, and growth. The novel presents a broad, multidimensional perspective on gender identity, from a child’s perspective to that of the parents and siblings. It also emphasizes the importance of unconditional love, acceptance, and the right to be one’s authentic self, offering an empowering narrative for readers within the LGBTQIA+ community.
– Where to Find It:This Is How It Always Is can be purchased at major book retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores. It is also available in digital formats (Kindle, Apple Books) and as an audiobook. For those looking to borrow, the book can be found in most public libraries or accessed through digital lending services like OverDrive and Libby.
“Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda”
– Author and Release Year: Becky Albertalli, released in 2015.
– Summary:Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda follows the story of Simon Spier, a 16-year-old high school junior who has not yet come out as gay. Simon’s life is turned upside down when an email he sent to his friend, Blue, a fellow closeted student, is accidentally exposed to the wrong person. This sets off a chain of events in which Simon is blackmailed, leading him to navigate the tricky waters of high school relationships, friendships, and a developing romance with Blue, all while trying to keep his secret under wraps. The novel is a sweet, funny, and poignant exploration of identity, love, and coming out.
– Why it’s Underrated: While Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda has become a beloved staple in LGBTQIA+ young adult literature, it remains underrated in the broader context of queer representation in literature. The book’s lighthearted approach to the serious themes of coming out and self-acceptance makes it a refreshing, non-agonizing read, but it’s often overshadowed by heavier, more dramatic queer stories. Its humor, relatability, and charm make it a standout in the genre, yet it still doesn’t receive as much recognition in mainstream conversations about LGBTQIA+ books.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation: This book is highly praised for its authentic LGBTQIA+ representation, particularly Simon’s experience as a gay teen. His coming-out journey is relatable, messy, and full of real-world challenges, but also full of warmth, humor, and the joy of discovering love. The book also focuses on the relationship between Simon and Blue, two teens whose romance blossoms through secret online messages. It’s a beautiful portrayal of young love and the emotional journey of realizing and accepting one’s sexual identity. The book also touches on themes of friendship, family, and the process of navigating acceptance and self-discovery in a world that’s still learning to be more inclusive.
– Where to Find It:Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda is available at major retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores. It can be purchased in digital formats (Kindle, Apple Books) and as an audiobook for those who prefer to listen. For those wishing to borrow the book, it’s available in public libraries and through digital lending services like OverDrive and Libby.
“The Miseducation of Cameron Post”
– Author and Release Year: Emily M. Danforth, released in 2012.
– Summary:The Miseducation of Cameron Post tells the story of Cameron Post, a teenage girl living in Montana in the early 1990s. After her parents die in a car accident, Cameron is sent to live with her conservative aunt, who is unaware of Cameron’s sexual identity. When Cameron’s secret relationship with her best friend, Irene, is discovered, she is sent to a controversial conversion therapy camp, where she is forced to confront her sexuality in an environment designed to “cure” her. As she navigates the horrors of the camp and her emerging identity, Cameron learns about love, acceptance, and resilience.
– Why it’s Underrated: Though The Miseducation of Cameron Post was well-received by critics and even adapted into a film, it often remains underappreciated in discussions about LGBTQIA+ literature. The book offers a raw and honest portrayal of conversion therapy, a controversial and harmful practice that is still used in certain parts of the world. Despite its gripping and important message, it tends to be overshadowed by other LGBTQIA+ books that focus more on positive, romantic experiences rather than the challenges and traumas that some young queer people face. The novel’s deep emotional and social insights into queer identity and the consequences of forced conformity make it a significant, albeit somber, read that deserves more attention.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation: The book is deeply impactful in its LGBTQIA+ representation, primarily through the protagonist, Cameron, and her struggles with being a lesbian in a society that seeks to suppress her true self. The depiction of conversion therapy is powerful and chilling, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll it takes on LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly young people. The relationships Cameron forms with others at the camp, including a girl named Coley, offer a glimpse of queer love and connection in a toxic environment. The novel also explores the broader theme of what it means to accept oneself when society refuses to do so, making it an important read for anyone interested in understanding the difficulties of coming out and living authentically in the face of adversity.
– Where to Find It:The Miseducation of Cameron Post is available for purchase through major retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores. It can also be found in digital formats (Kindle, Apple Books) and is available as an audiobook. For those interested in borrowing, the book can be accessed at most public libraries and through digital lending services like OverDrive and Libby.
“Orlando: A Biography”
– Author and Release Year: Virginia Woolf, released in 1928.
– Summary:Orlando: A Biography is a unique and groundbreaking novel that tells the story of Orlando, a young nobleman who miraculously transforms into a woman and lives for centuries, experiencing life in various historical periods. The novel follows Orlando’s journey across time, exploring themes of gender, identity, and the fluidity of self. Written as a mock biography, Woolf’s novel combines humor, fantasy, and sharp social commentary, offering a profound exploration of the changing roles of gender and identity over time. Throughout the book, Orlando wrestles with societal expectations, personal desires, and the complexities of both male and female existence.
– Why it’s Underrated: Although Orlando is often regarded as one of Virginia Woolf’s most innovative works, it remains somewhat underrated in mainstream literary discussions. The book is frequently overshadowed by her more famous novels, such as Mrs. Dalloway and To the Lighthouse. Its whimsical narrative and experimental form make it challenging for some readers, but these very qualities are what make it ahead of its time in its exploration of gender and identity. The novel’s radical portrayal of gender fluidity and its engagement with the concept of personal transformation are as relevant today as they were when it was first published, and it deserves more recognition for its groundbreaking approach.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation:Orlando is an iconic work in LGBTQIA+ literature, celebrated for its exploration of gender and sexuality. The novel offers an early, literary depiction of gender fluidity, with Orlando’s transformation from male to female providing a narrative vehicle to question the rigidity of gender norms. Woolf’s writing challenges traditional concepts of identity, blending elements of both femininity and masculinity in the same character. The book is widely regarded as a pioneering text for both transgender and queer representation, offering a narrative that allows for the fluid and ever-changing nature of human identity. Orlando’s experiences with love, desire, and self-actualization transcend the boundaries of traditional gender roles, making it a timeless exploration of LGBTQIA+ themes.
– Where to Find It:Orlando: A Biography is available for purchase from major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores. It can also be found in digital formats, including Kindle and Apple Books, as well as an audiobook version. For those looking to borrow the book, it is widely available in public libraries and can be accessed via digital lending services like OverDrive and Libby.
“The Song of Achilles”
– Author and Release Year: Madeline Miller, released in 2011.
– Summary:The Song of Achilles is a reimagining of the life of Achilles, the famous Greek hero from Homer’s Iliad, and his companion, Patroclus. The novel tells the story of their deep and emotional bond, from their childhood years to the Trojan War. It explores their love, friendship, and the eventual tragedy that follows as they face their fates. Through the lens of Patroclus, the novel delves into themes of love, destiny, sacrifice, and the complexities of living in the shadow of great mythic events. Madeline Miller’s lyrical writing brings ancient Greece to life, imbuing the myth with emotional depth and human complexity.
– Why it’s Underrated: Although The Song of Achilles received critical acclaim, it remains slightly underrated in the wider literary world, especially outside of its specific fanbase. The novel’s blend of classical mythology with a deeply personal love story is compelling, but it doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves among both mythological retellings and contemporary literary works. Despite winning numerous awards, its quieter, reflective nature may be overshadowed by flashier, more action-oriented stories in the genre. The novel deserves greater recognition for its ability to humanize these mythic figures and bring new layers to well-known legends.
– LGBTQIA+ Representation:The Song of Achilles is an important work of LGBTQIA+ representation, particularly for its portrayal of the romantic and sexual relationship between Achilles and Patroclus. The love between the two characters is central to the narrative and is portrayed with deep emotional resonance and tenderness. The novel does an exceptional job of humanizing their relationship, emphasizing the intimacy and the complexities of love, making it both historically grounded and emotionally universal. The LGBTQIA+ representation is significant not only for its positive depiction of same-sex love but also for its exploration of the social and personal struggles faced by the characters within the context of ancient Greece.
– Where to Find It:The Song of Achilles is available for purchase through major retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores. It is also available in digital formats for e-readers, including Kindle and Apple Books, and as an audiobook. For those looking to borrow the book, it can be found in public libraries and accessed via digital lending platforms like OverDrive and Libby.
Conclusion
– Summary of the List: The novels on this list represent some of the most compelling and diverse LGBTQIA+ stories in the realm of fantasy and historical fiction. From the emotional depths of The Song of Achilles to the humorous adventures of The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue, each book offers unique insights into love, identity, and the complexities of being queer in different times and worlds. These stories not only showcase the power of LGBTQIA+ representation but also highlight how literature can challenge and expand our understanding of gender, love, and belonging. Whether you’re looking for heart-wrenching tales of resilience or lighthearted journeys of self-discovery, these books are a must-read for anyone interested in exploring diverse queer narratives in fantasy and beyond.
– Call to Action: If you haven’t already, I highly encourage you to dive into these novels and support these incredible authors. By purchasing their works, sharing this article, or recommending them to friends, you’re helping to elevate LGBTQIA+ voices in the literary world. Let’s continue to celebrate diverse storytelling and ensure that these vital narratives reach even more readers who can find themselves reflected within them.
– Closing Thought: Now, I’d love to hear from you: What are some of your favorite underrated LGBTQIA+ fantasy books that you think deserve more attention? Share your recommendations in the comments, and let’s keep this conversation going! Whether it’s a hidden gem or a personal favorite, there’s always room for more amazing queer stories to discover and celebrate.
