The world of publishing has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with self-publishing emerging as a powerful avenue for writers to share their stories. This shift has opened doors for creators who may have struggled to find a place in traditional publishing, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Among these are queer authors, whose works are redefining genres, including the ever-popular realm of fantasy.
Fantasy has long been a space for exploring the extraordinary, with its ability to weave magic, epic adventures, and otherworldly landscapes. For LGBTQIA+ authors, it offers a unique canvas to build worlds that challenge societal norms, explore diverse identities, and celebrate the beauty of individuality. In a genre historically dominated by heteronormative perspectives, the rise of self-published queer authors is not just refreshing—it’s essential.
This article celebrates the incredible contributions of LGBTQIA+ voices to fantasy, focusing on self-published authors who are pushing boundaries and creating compelling stories that resonate with readers worldwide. By shining a light on their work, we hope to inspire you to explore, support, and champion these innovative creators.
Why Self-Publishing is Transforming the Industry
In the traditional publishing world, the process of getting a book into readers’ hands has always been lengthy, gatekept, and often biased toward mainstream narratives. For many underrepresented groups, including LGBTQIA+ authors, this system has historically been a barrier, preventing them from telling their stories as authentically as they’d like. However, the rise of self-publishing has dramatically shifted this landscape, giving authors the freedom to reach their audience directly without needing the approval of big publishing houses. This transformation has been particularly significant for queer authors, offering them a platform to share their diverse and authentic voices.
Self-publishing empowers writers to bypass traditional publishers’ constraints, which can often be limiting, especially for marginalized voices. Without the pressure of conforming to mainstream expectations, queer authors are free to explore complex characters, relationships, and identities without fear of being censored or whitewashed. This has led to an explosion of LGBTQIA+ narratives that are as diverse and nuanced as the communities they represent. Self-publishing provides an unparalleled level of creative control, allowing authors to produce stories that are deeply personal and unflinchingly true to their experiences.
The benefits of self-publishing for queer authors go beyond creative freedom. It also allows for more direct interaction with readers, fostering a supportive community where readers feel seen and validated. Authors can engage with fans, receive feedback, and make adjustments in real-time, creating a dynamic relationship that strengthens their writing and the impact of their work. For many queer authors, this closeness with their audience is not just a perk—it’s a vital connection that traditional publishing often doesn’t facilitate.
In contrast, the traditional publishing industry has often marginalized LGBTQIA+ narratives, relegating them to niche markets or tokenizing their characters. Queer representation, when it does appear, is often limited to stereotypical roles or “problematic” storylines, such as tragic endings or character deaths. Mainstream publishers have historically been more focused on what will sell to the widest audience, which has led to LGBTQIA+ stories being sidelined or diluted. By choosing to self-publish, authors can resist this commercialization, ensuring that their narratives are honest, inclusive, and reflective of their lived experiences.
As more queer authors take the self-publishing route, they are not only reshaping the fantasy genre but also contributing to a more diverse and inclusive literary landscape. Their work proves that stories about love, identity, and belonging can—and should—be told on their own terms, outside of the constraints imposed by traditional publishing.
The Rise of LGBTQIA+ Fantasy: A Genre for Everyone
Fantasy has always been a genre where the impossible becomes possible, where characters can transcend their limitations, and where worlds are built without the constraints of reality. This flexibility makes fantasy the perfect genre for LGBTQIA+ authors to explore themes of identity, transformation, and belonging—subjects that are central to many queer experiences. Over the years, LGBTQIA+ writers have increasingly turned to fantasy to tell their stories, resulting in a vibrant and diverse range of books that both entertain and provoke thought.
One of the key reasons fantasy is so well-suited for LGBTQIA+ storytelling is its inherent ability to break free from the limitations of real-world structures. In a genre filled with magic, alternate realities, and mythical creatures, queer identities can be explored in ways that are unbounded by the societal norms and prejudices that often restrict their portrayal in other genres. Fantasy allows queer authors to create worlds where love, gender, and identity can exist outside traditional confines, offering a safe space for characters to discover and express their true selves.
Some of the most poignant themes in LGBTQIA+ fantasy revolve around identity, transformation, and found family. The journey of self-discovery is central to many queer narratives, and fantasy offers a unique environment in which characters can embark on epic quests or personal journeys to explore who they truly are. In fantasy, transformations—whether magical, physical, or emotional—serve as powerful metaphors for the fluidity of gender and sexual identity. For example, characters who undergo magical transformations may mirror the real-life experience of discovering and embracing one’s true self, as many LGBTQIA+ individuals do.
Another recurring theme in queer fantasy is found family. For many queer individuals, family is not just defined by blood relations but by the bonds forged with others who understand, support, and love them for who they are. In fantasy, characters often find themselves part of chosen families—groups of allies, friends, and mentors who become their pillars of strength. These found families can be diverse, supportive, and reflective of the deep connections many queer people form outside traditional family structures. Through this, LGBTQIA+ fantasy novels emphasize the importance of solidarity and love beyond the conventional norms.
Additionally, queer authors are actively reshaping traditional fantasy tropes, such as the “hero’s journey” or the “romantic quest,” by making space for LGBTQIA+ characters at the forefront of these narratives. No longer are love stories limited to heterosexual pairings, and no longer are queer characters relegated to the sidelines. Queer protagonists can now embark on heroic adventures, face challenges, and find love in ways that reflect the diverse spectrum of human experience. These authors challenge outdated stereotypes and push the boundaries of what fantasy can represent, ensuring that LGBTQIA+ readers see themselves reflected in the grand stories of heroism and magic.
In doing so, queer narratives are revolutionizing fantasy. They offer a broader and more inclusive view of what it means to be a hero, a lover, or a friend, showing that anyone—regardless of their gender or sexuality—can have a place in the fantastical worlds of fiction. As these diverse voices continue to gain recognition, they are paving the way for even more inclusive and transformative storytelling within the fantasy genre.
Spotlight on Queer Self-Published Fantasy Authors
As the self-publishing world continues to thrive, many queer authors have emerged as trailblazers in the fantasy genre, creating works that stand out for their authenticity, depth, and inclusivity. These authors are reshaping the literary landscape with unique stories that resonate with LGBTQIA+ readers while also appealing to a broader audience. Below are a few notable self-published queer fantasy authors whose works are helping to redefine the genre.
K.L. HiersKnown for:The Echo Chronicles series Description: K.L. Hiers is an author celebrated for their intricate world-building and the exploration of gender fluidity in fantastical settings. The Echo Chronicles is a captivating series set in a world where magic and technology coexist, and where gender is not confined to binary norms. The series features multiple LGBTQIA+ protagonists navigating political intrigue, magical warfare, and personal growth. Hiers’ approach to creating a world where diverse identities are fully integrated into the plot offers readers both an engaging story and an inclusive space to explore complex identities.
Standout Features:
- Representation of gender-fluid and non-binary characters as central figures.
- Unique magical systems that reflect the fluidity of identity.
- Exploration of queer relationships in both romantic and platonic contexts.
Follow/Buy: [Link to purchase the books on Amazon] Follow K.L. Hiers on Twitter
C.L. DenaultKnown for:The Chronicles of EliraDescription: C.L. Denault is an author known for blending epic fantasy with LGBTQIA+ themes of love, loss, and redemption. The Chronicles of Elira is set in a sprawling, enchanted world where magic is tied to both ancient prophecies and personal identities. Denault’s writing centers on complex, multifaceted characters, including a bisexual protagonist and several queer side characters, each grappling with their place in a divided, war-torn world. Denault’s fantasy world is rich in cultural depth and magical systems, bringing in elements of nature-based magic that also mirror the fluidity of sexual and gender identities.
Standout Features:
- Epic fantasy world-building with strong LGBTQIA+ representation.
- Multi-layered relationships that challenge conventional ideas of love and loyalty.
- Characters dealing with societal conflict while exploring personal and collective identities.
Follow/Buy: [Link to purchase on Amazon] Follow C.L. Denault on Instagram
E.J. RussellKnown for:The Riven ChroniclesDescription: E.J. Russell’s The Riven Chronicles is a thrilling blend of high fantasy and LGBTQIA+ romance. The series focuses on a group of misfit heroes who must save their world from an ancient curse. At the heart of the story is the developing relationship between two male protagonists who are forced to confront their own fears and insecurities while dealing with external magical threats. Russell excels at creating complex characters and emotionally-driven plots, and the romantic subplot plays a crucial role in the overarching narrative. Russell’s world-building is imaginative, filled with both magical creatures and political intrigue, while the central romance adds depth and relatability to the plot.
Standout Features:
- A slow-burn romance that resonates with readers looking for LGBTQIA+ love stories in high fantasy.
- Strong emphasis on personal growth and vulnerability within queer relationships.
- Complex antagonists who challenge societal structures, echoing real-world struggles.
Follow/Buy: [Link to purchase on Amazon] Follow E.J. Russell on Facebook
Ashlyn J. RuckerKnown for:Frost & FireDescription: Ashlyn J. Rucker’s Frost & Fire is a gripping fantasy novel that intertwines romance with themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and magical discovery. The story follows two men from different worlds—one a prince, the other a soldier—who find their fates entwined by an ancient prophecy. As their bond deepens, they must navigate both political intrigue and the blossoming of their romantic feelings, all while uncovering the truth behind a dark curse threatening their kingdom. Rucker is praised for their ability to create complex, believable queer characters whose emotional journeys feel as significant as their external battles.
Standout Features:
- A romance that plays out alongside epic battles and magical discoveries.
- Strong LGBTQIA+ representation with a focus on emotional depth.
- Beautifully crafted world-building, with a focus on the interplay of light and dark, both literally and figuratively.
Follow/Buy: [Link to purchase on Amazon] Follow Ashlyn J. Rucker on Twitter
These authors represent just a glimpse of the vast and diverse world of self-published queer fantasy. Their works are changing the way we think about fantasy literature, introducing fresh perspectives and showcasing the incredible range of queer experiences. By supporting these authors, readers can help promote inclusive storytelling and ensure that LGBTQIA+ narratives continue to flourish in the fantasy genre.
Recommendations: Must-Read LGBTQIA+ Self-Published Fantasy Books
The world of self-published LGBTQIA+ fantasy is rich with diverse stories that explore everything from epic battles and magical realms to intimate romances and personal journeys of self-discovery. Below is a curated list of must-read books, organized by themes, that showcase the incredible talent of queer authors and the depth of their narratives. Whether you’re into epic fantasy, urban fantasy, or romance-fantasy crossovers, there’s something for everyone.
Epic Fantasy
The Unbroken by C.L. ClarkSynopsis: In a world where empire and revolution collide, a fierce warrior and a princess find themselves entangled in a battle for power, freedom, and love. This epic fantasy features a strong focus on resistance and queer identity, showcasing a complex relationship between two women in a war-torn empire. Review: “A compelling tale of political intrigue and passionate rebellion with characters you will root for until the very last page.” — Goodreads Reviewer
The Storm’s Heart by M.A. GuglielmoSynopsis: When a young prince with a dark secret and a shape-shifting assassin are forced into an uneasy alliance, they must navigate a treacherous landscape filled with political conspiracies, magic, and an undeniable attraction. Review: “A beautifully crafted world where magic and love transcend boundaries, with unforgettable characters and a thrilling plot.” — Amazon Reviewer
Urban Fantasy
City of Strays by Ada L. ParnellSynopsis: In a city where humans coexist with mythical creatures, a young werewolf and a disillusioned human detective team up to solve a series of mysterious disappearances, all while grappling with their growing feelings for each other. Review: “An intriguing urban fantasy with vivid characters and a romance that unfolds at just the right pace. Parnell masterfully blends mystery with magical realism.” — IndieReader
Shattered Glass by Sarah DiemerSynopsis: A modern-day fantasy set in a world where magic is hidden in plain sight, Shattered Glass follows two women, a witch and a thief, as they uncover secrets about their pasts while navigating the dangerous underworld of a magical city. Review: “Diemer brings her signature style of weaving romance, adventure, and deep emotional journeys into a fast-paced, heartfelt urban fantasy.” — Goodreads Reviewer
Romance-Fantasy Crossover
Frost & Fire by Ashlyn J. RuckerSynopsis: When two men from opposing factions are bound by a magical prophecy, they must unite their forces to save their kingdom while navigating their growing romantic feelings for each other. Review: “A gripping and heartwarming fantasy that beautifully combines romance with high stakes and rich world-building. Rucker’s writing pulls you in from the first page.” — Amazon Reviewer
A Mark of Stars by Jessica CageSynopsis: In a world of magic and destiny, a warrior and a prince must face their fears, the gods’ wills, and their undeniable attraction to each other. Their bond might be the key to saving their realm from destruction. Review: “A captivating romance wrapped in a spellbinding fantasy tale. Cage does a wonderful job of balancing character development and magical elements.” — Goodreads Reviewer
Fantasy with Themes of Identity and Self-Discovery
The Reign of the Black Flame by A.L. ButcherSynopsis: A young woman with the ability to control fire discovers that her powers are part of an ancient prophecy, and her journey to understand her identity leads her to confront both external enemies and her own inner turmoil. Review: “A story that beautifully weaves themes of self-discovery, strength, and belonging, all while keeping the reader engaged with a rich, fast-paced narrative.” — Amazon Reviewer
In the Dark of Dreams by K.M. PohlkampSynopsis: As a magical curse starts to unravel the life of a young prince, he must come to terms with his true identity, including his attraction to someone he should never have fallen for. This story explores themes of love, transformation, and the complexities of identity. Review: “Pohlkamp’s writing is elegant and powerful, with a plot that keeps you guessing and characters whose growth feels incredibly real.” — Goodreads Reviewer
High Fantasy Adventure
Valkyrie’s Vengeance by J.L. CatoSynopsis: When a vengeful valkyrie embarks on a quest to avenge her fallen kin, she finds herself working alongside a mysterious sorcerer whose hidden past may hold the key to both their survival and their budding love. Review: “An action-packed adventure with a healthy dose of romance, and an ending that will leave readers eager for more!” — Amazon Reviewer
The Queen’s Guard by V.L. LoceySynopsis: In a kingdom where power and love are often intertwined, a young man finds himself sworn to protect the queen—only to realize that his growing feelings for her could endanger everything. Review: “Locey weaves a world of intrigue and deep emotional connection, where duty and desire collide in unexpected and heart-stirring ways.” — Goodreads Reviewer
These self-published LGBTQIA+ fantasy books offer something for every type of reader, from epic adventures to intimate romances, each rich with magical worlds, complex characters, and deeply human themes. By supporting these talented authors, readers not only discover exciting new stories but also help amplify diverse voices in the literary world.
Ready to dive in? Check out the books and support these authors by purchasing their work through the links provided.
How to Support Queer Self-Published Authors
Supporting queer self-published authors is more than just purchasing their books—it’s about helping amplify their voices, foster a sense of community, and ensure that their stories continue to thrive. By taking small but impactful actions, readers can directly contribute to the success of these authors and the growth of the LGBTQIA+ fantasy genre. Below are some effective ways you can show your support.
Buy Directly from the Author
One of the most impactful ways to support self-published authors is by purchasing their books directly, whether through their personal websites, Patreon pages, or other platforms where they can retain a higher percentage of the sales. This not only boosts their income but also helps them continue to create and share their stories. Many authors also offer special perks, such as signed copies or exclusive content, when you buy directly from them.
When buying from the author’s website or platforms like Gumroad, you are often cutting out the middleman, which means the author receives a larger portion of the proceeds. This can help them reinvest in their work, whether that means funding future projects, hiring editors, or promoting their books to a wider audience.
Share Reviews and Recommendations
Leaving honest reviews on platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, and Barnes & Noble is incredibly valuable to self-published authors. Positive reviews not only build an author’s credibility but also help other readers discover their work. If you’ve enjoyed a book, share your thoughts and recommend it to others. Your review can inspire more readers to give the book a chance.
Goodreads is a particularly useful platform for finding and sharing book recommendations. Many readers look to Goodreads for book suggestions, and positive ratings and reviews can significantly boost a book’s visibility. If you love a book, don’t just keep it to yourself—spread the word!
Promote on Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for self-published authors to connect with their audience. You can help promote a queer author’s work by sharing their posts, tagging them in your own reviews or reading updates, and spreading the word to your followers. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are all great places to interact with authors and other readers.
By participating in conversations, using relevant hashtags (#LGBTQIAfantasy, #OwnVoices, #queerbooks), and sharing posts about books you love, you contribute to building the author’s visibility and community. Even sharing a post about your favorite book on your own social media can go a long way in introducing new readers to the author’s work.
Word-of-Mouth and Recommendations
The importance of word-of-mouth cannot be overstated, especially for indie authors. Many readers rely on recommendations from friends, family, and online communities when choosing what to read next. If you loved a book, tell people about it! Whether it’s recommending it to a friend or sharing it in an online book club or forum, your recommendation can introduce a whole new audience to a self-published queer author’s work.
Joining communities that celebrate LGBTQIA+ literature and self-published works can also help you find new books to support. Platforms like Reddit, Discord, and book-focused Facebook groups often have active discussions where members share recommendations and promote indie authors.
Explore Resources and Platforms to Discover More Books
There are several platforms and resources that specialize in promoting LGBTQIA+ literature, and specifically self-published works. Here are a few to help you discover more queer fantasy books:
- Patreon: Many self-published authors use Patreon to connect directly with their fans and offer exclusive content, early access to new books, or even personalized experiences. By supporting authors on Patreon, you help them build a sustainable writing career and get access to bonus content or early drafts.
- Kickstarter: Some authors turn to Kickstarter to fund their next book or a special project. Supporting a book through Kickstarter not only helps fund the project but often comes with exclusive rewards for backers. Kickstarter is a great way to directly engage with an author and help them bring their vision to life.
- Goodreads: Beyond just leaving reviews, Goodreads is a fantastic place to discover new queer fantasy books. Many authors host giveaways, share updates, and engage with their fans here. Join groups that focus on LGBTQIA+ or indie fantasy books to stay updated on new releases.
- BookFunnel and StoryOrigin: These platforms allow readers to access free or discounted books directly from authors. Many self-published authors use these services to share their work and grow their readership. Signing up for newsletters or participating in book giveaways can be a great way to discover hidden gems in the LGBTQIA+ fantasy genre.
- LGBTQIA+ Book Blogs and Websites: There are numerous blogs dedicated to LGBTQIA+ books, including fantasy. Sites like “Lesbian Review,” “QueerSciFi,” and “Rainbow Books” feature book reviews, author interviews, and lists of must-read LGBTQIA+ books. These resources are perfect for finding self-published authors to support.
By actively engaging with queer self-published authors and taking steps to promote their work, you play a key role in helping diverse voices thrive in the literary world. Whether you’re buying books, leaving reviews, or spreading the word on social media, your support can make a meaningful difference in an author’s success. Keep reading, keep recommending, and continue to amplify the incredible talent within the LGBTQIA+ literary community.
Let’s continue to champion diverse stories and help these authors reach the wider audience they deserve!
Conclusion
As we’ve explored throughout this article, queer voices are transforming the landscape of fantasy literature, especially in the realm of self-publishing. These authors bring new perspectives, rich world-building, and diverse characters that not only enhance the genre but also offer readers powerful stories of identity, love, and belonging. Supporting queer authors in the fantasy space is crucial to ensuring that the literary world continues to be diverse, inclusive, and representative of all experiences.
By purchasing books directly from authors, sharing reviews, promoting on social media, and spreading the word through word-of-mouth, you can make a tangible impact on the careers of these talented creators. It’s through our collective support that queer authors can continue to write the stories that matter to them and to us. Every small action you take—whether it’s recommending a book to a friend or joining a Patreon—helps these authors reach a wider audience and keeps their voices strong in the literary community.
So, let’s continue to explore, support, and celebrate the incredible works of LGBTQIA+ authors. They deserve our attention, our praise, and our commitment to ensuring their stories are heard far and wide.
Call-to-Action: Quais são seus livros de fantasia LGBTQIA+ favoritos? Compartilhe suas recomendações e pensamentos nos comentários abaixo — vamos manter a conversa fluindo e ajudar a espalhar o amor por esses autores incríveis!
