Which Best Rated Romance Books Have LGBTQ+ Protagonists?

2025-09-05 11:38:27 27

3 Answers

Quinn
Quinn
2025-09-06 20:25:58
If you're in the mood for swoony, well-rated romances with LGBTQ+ leads, I’ve got a stack I can't stop recommending. I devoured 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston on a weekend and grinned the whole time — it's a modern rom-com with a charming enemies-to-lovers arc between two men, sharp banter, and a warm political backdrop. For something a bit more literary and tragic-beautiful, 'Call Me by Your Name' by André Aciman lands like a memory you can’t shake; it’s haunting, sensual, and perfect if you want slow-burn emotion.

If you like historical settings, try 'Tipping the Velvet' or 'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters — both are lush, sapphic tales with theft, identity, and complicated desire. For YA that hits in the chest, 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' by Benjamin Alire Sáenz is tender, vivid, and very true to those awkward, electric beginnings of love. I’d also toss in 'Boyfriend Material' by Alexis Hall for a lighter, witty m/m contemporary romance that scratches the rom-com itch without feeling repetitive.

Outside those, 'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller is an epic retelling packed with mythic romance, and 'Cemetery Boys' by Aiden Thomas mixes charm, identity, and a sweet queer romance in a magical-urban setting. My go-to tip: pick by mood — want laughs and banter, choose McQuiston or Hall; craving emotional, lyrical prose, go Miller or Aciman — and maybe brew a cup of something comforting before you start.
Daniel
Daniel
2025-09-06 21:51:45
Looking for top-rated romances with queer protagonists? Here's a concise, practical list I keep handing to friends: 'Red, White & Royal Blue' (Casey McQuiston) — modern m/m rom-com; 'Boyfriend Material' (Alexis Hall) — witty enemies-to-lovers m/m; 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' (Benjamin Alire Sáenz) — tender YA m/m coming-of-age; 'Call Me by Your Name' (André Aciman) — lyrical, bittersweet adult m/m romance; 'The Song of Achilles' (Madeline Miller) — mythic, tragic m/m love; 'Tipping the Velvet' and 'Fingersmith' (Sarah Waters) — lush, gripping sapphic historicals; 'The Price of Salt' (Patricia Highsmith) — classic lesbian romance; 'Annie on My Mind' (Nancy Garden) — essential YA sapphic; 'Cemetery Boys' (Aiden Thomas) — charming trans lead with supernatural elements; 'The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue' (Mackenzi Lee) — bisexual protagonist in a rollicking historical adventure.

If you want a shortcut: pick one contemporary rom-com and one classic or literary title to see what tone you prefer. I usually recommend reading blurbs and the first chapter to sense whether you want light banter or something deeper — and don’t be afraid to switch halfway if the vibe isn’t clicking; books are for enjoyment, after all.
Evelyn
Evelyn
2025-09-09 09:58:14
I still find myself bringing up queer classics when friends ask for heartfelt recommendations — they tend to be the books that changed how I think about love on the page. If you want a quieter, character-driven experience, 'Annie on My Mind' by Nancy Garden is a gentle, necessary milestone in lesbian YA fiction; it’s earnest and hopeful in a way that feels refreshing after so many angsty reads. For adults craving historical nuance and moral complexity, Patricia Highsmith’s 'The Price of Salt' (often known as 'Carol') is a slow, careful romance between two women that reads like a study in restraint and longing.

I've also returned to 'The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue' by Mackenzi Lee whenever I need brash adventure plus tender queer romance — the protagonist’s bisexuality is handled candidly and the road-trip hijinks are riotous. For something rawer and radical, 'Stone Butch Blues' by Leslie Feinberg is tough, essential reading; it’s less a rom-com and more a life-affirming, sometimes brutal exploration of identity and love, but it ranks incredibly highly for readers wanting depth and historical perspective. If someone asks me for a quick starter: pick one cute contemporary, one YA coming-of-age, and one classic — it balances mood and depth in the best way.
View All Answers
Scan code to download App

Related Books

Dionysus Rising ( A Rockstar Romance) books 1-3
Dionysus Rising ( A Rockstar Romance) books 1-3
Dionysus Rising - The biggest rock band in the world right now cordially invite you to take a sneaky look at their lives both off and on the stage. The highs and the lows, the heart break and the mind blowing passion… it’s all within these pages as Jax , Dion and Louis tell you their stories ️
10
90 Chapters
Best Laid Plans - A Mafia Romance
Best Laid Plans - A Mafia Romance
Mumbai. The city of dreams. Shining bright with impressive skyscrapers, glamorous filmstars, and glittering malls. Standing tall on the shimmering coast of the Arabian Sea. Everywhere Sun hits here, this city dazzles. But beneath this warm dazzle, there is another Mumbai. The cold Mumbai. The dark Mumbai. The stronghold of the mafia. Where narrow alleys are splattered with gun-powder and blood. Where lives are discarded like tissue papers. Where an obscene amount of money circulates unaudited. And since years now, this formidable underworld is under Lala Amarnath Vaghela's thumb. The powerful mafia kingpin who started his ascent from the slums of Dharavi years back, today he controls most of the Indian subcontinent's illegal dealings and organized crime with an iron fist. But not without help. Kunal Ranjan Vaghela. Lalaji's grandson and his heir apparent. Apple of his grandfather's eyes, he is calculative, sly, and cold-blooded. Samar Jagtap. Lalaji's ruthless and cunning protege. Indispensable, he is as unapologetic as they come in this business. Everything is working smoothly in Lalaji's world. Like a well-oiled machine. Or is it? Because apart from sharing Lalaji's trust, apparently these two capable young men also share an undisguised hatred for each other. Not above playing dirty in this high-stakes arena, both are merely bidding their time to tear one another down. But no matter who emerges the winner out of the two, there is someone who will only lose. A torn heart that refuses to take sides. A girl who dared to love them both. Stubborn and loyal-to-a-fault Maahi. Full name Maahi Ranjan Vaghela. Kunal Vaghela's beloved baby sister. And the beautiful confusion of Samar Jagtap's life.
9.9
30 Chapters
Don't Date Your Best Friend (The Unfolding Duet 2 Books)
Don't Date Your Best Friend (The Unfolding Duet 2 Books)
He shouldn’t have imagined her lying naked on his bed. She shouldn’t have imagined his devilishly handsome face between her legs. But it was too late. Kiara began noticing Ethan's washboard abs when he hopped out of the pool, dripping wet after swim practice. Ethan began gazing at Kiara’s golden skin in a bikini as a grown woman instead of the girl next door he grew up with. That kiss should have never happened. It was just one moment in a lifetime of moments, but they both felt its power. They knew the thrumming in their veins and desperation in their bodies might give them all they ever wanted or ruin everything if they followed it. Kiara and Ethan knew they should have never kissed. But it's too late to take that choice back, so they have a new one to make. Fall for each other and risk their friendship or try to forget one little kiss that might change everything. PREVIEW: “If you don’t want to kiss me then... let’s swim.” “Yeah, sure.” “Naked.” “What?” “I always wanted to try skinny dipping. And I really want to get out of these clothes.” “What if someone catches you... me, both?” “We will be in the pool, Ethan. And no one can see us from the living room.” I smirked when I said, “Unless you want to watch me while I swim, you can stay here.” His eyes darkened, and he looked away, probably thinking the same when I noticed red blush creeping up his neck and making his ears and cheeks flush. Cute. “Come on, Ethan. Don’t be a chicken...” “Fine.” His voice was rough when he said, “Remove that sweater first.”
10
76 Chapters
The Family Books 1 -3 (A collection of Dark Mafia Romance)
The Family Books 1 -3 (A collection of Dark Mafia Romance)
Book 1 Saints and Sinners She was the light to my dark. The saint to my sinner. with her innocent eyes and devilish curves. A Madonna that was meant to be admired but never touched. Until someone took that innocence from her. She left. The darkness in my heart was finally complete. I avenged her, I killed for her, but she never came back. Until I saw her again. An angel dancing around a pole for money. She didn’t know I owned that club. She didn’t know I was watching. This time I won’t let her escape. I will make her back into the girl I knew. Whether she likes it or not. Book 2 Judge and Jury I can’t stop watching her. I’m not even sure I want to. Taylor Lawson, blonde, beautiful, and totally oblivious to how much dangers she’s in. She’s also the one juror in my upcoming murder trial that hasn’t been bought. The one who can put me behind bars for a very long time. I know I should execute her. After all that’s what I do. I am the Judge. I eliminate threats to The Family. And Taylor is a threat. But I don’t want to kill her. Possessing her, making her love me seems like a much better plan for this particular Juror.
10
63 Chapters
Tempted by My Brother's Best Friend (Age Gap Romance)
Tempted by My Brother's Best Friend (Age Gap Romance)
He is a 10 but he is a decade older than me, my brother’s best friend, a therapist who wants to counsel me and... he likes to hurt little girls like me. “What were you doing this morning?” “I was meditating.” He is right. I am a terrible liar. Aiden raised his eyebrows. “Is that so?” He waited for my answer, crossing his arms over his chest. I got distracted by the way his biceps bulged. He noticed me staring. I glanced down at my lap, twiddling my thumbs. “Y-yes, Doctor Aiden, I was meditating and I-I focused on my breath like you taught me—” “Why are you lying to me, Ivy?” My head snapped at him. “I-I am not lying.” Aiden tilted his head and my throat went dry when he said, “Then why did I hear your voice moaning my name when you orgasmed with your fingers inside you?" He is her first love. She is his best friend's little sister. Will a chance reunion lead to true love? I was a good girl. An honor student. A dutiful daughter, sister and a sweet girlfriend to my boyfriend until I found him in my best friend’s bed. I didn’t want goody-two-shoe nice boys who gave me empty promises. What I wanted was a man who wouldn’t hurt me. When I found my brother’s best friend, Aiden Stone, with only a towel around his hot Greek body dripping wet from a shower, I decided that what I wanted, what I had been wanting for years, was him. The only problem? He is a decade older than me, my brother’s best friend, a therapist who wants to counsel me and... he likes to hurt little girls like me.
9.5
208 Chapters
Savage Sons MC Books 1-5
Savage Sons MC Books 1-5
Savage Sons Mc books 1-5 is a collection of MC romance stories which revolve around five key characters and the women they fall for. Havoc - A sweet like honey accent and a pair of hips I couldn’t keep my eyes off.That’s how it started.Darcie Summers was playing the part of my old lady to keep herself safe but we both know it’s more than that.There’s something real between us.Something passionate and primal.Something my half brother’s stupidity will rip apart unless I can get to her in time. Cyber - Everyone has that ONE person that got away, right? The one who you wished you had treated differently. For me, that girl has always been Iris.So when she turns up on Savage Sons territory needing help, I am the man for the job. Every time I look at her I see the beautiful girl I left behind but Iris is no longer that girl. What I put into motion years ago has shattered her into a million hard little pieces. And if I’m not careful they will cut my heart out. Fang-The first time I saw her, she was sat on the side of the road drinking whiskey straight from the bottle. The second time was when I hit her dog. I had promised myself never to get involved with another woman after the death of my wife. But Gypsy was different. Sweeter, kinder and with a mouth that could make a sailor blush. She was also too good for me. I am Fang, President of the Savage Sons. I am not a good man, I’ve taken more lives than I care to admit even to myself. But I’m going to keep her anyway.
10
146 Chapters

Related Questions

What Are The Best-Rated Books With Assassins And Romance?

3 Answers2025-07-31 21:39:59
I've always been drawn to books that mix danger with passion, and 'Night Angel' by Brent Weeks is a perfect example. The way Weeks blends the gritty life of an assassin with deep emotional connections is masterful. The protagonist's journey from a street rat to a deadly assassin while navigating complex relationships kept me hooked. Another favorite is 'Throne of Glass' by Sarah J. Maas, where the fierce assassin Celaena Sardothien balances her deadly skills with a heart that yearns for love. The tension between her missions and her romantic entanglements adds layers to the story. These books show that even the deadliest characters can have soft spots, making their romances all the more compelling.

What Are The Top-Rated Best Romance Books On Goodreads?

2 Answers2025-05-13 16:47:38
I’ve been diving into romance novels for years, and Goodreads is my go-to for finding the best ones. 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne is a standout. It’s a workplace romance with sharp wit and undeniable chemistry between Lucy and Joshua. Their banter is electric, and the slow-burn tension keeps you hooked. Another favorite is 'The Kiss Quotient' by Helen Hoang. It’s a heartwarming story about Stella, an autistic woman who hires an escort to teach her about relationships. The way Hoang writes about vulnerability and connection is deeply moving. 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen is a classic that never gets old. The dynamic between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is timeless, and Austen’s social commentary still resonates today. For something more contemporary, 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston is a must-read. It’s a delightful mix of politics, humor, and romance, with Alex and Henry’s love story stealing the show. If you’re into historical romance, 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon is epic. Claire and Jamie’s love story spans time and continents, and the rich historical detail makes it unforgettable. Lastly, 'Me Before You' by Jojo Moyes is a tearjerker that explores love and sacrifice in a way that stays with you long after you finish the book. These books are all highly rated on Goodreads for a reason—they’re masterpieces of the genre.

What Are The Best Romance Books Top Rated In 2024?

5 Answers2025-08-07 21:17:01
As someone who devours romance novels like candy, 2024 has been an amazing year for the genre. I've been absolutely obsessed with 'Funny Feelings' by Tarah DeWitt—it's a hilarious and heartwarming fake dating trope with a comedian heroine and a grumpy hero that made me laugh and cry in equal measure. Another standout is 'Butcher & Blackbird' by Brynne Weaver, a darkly romantic tale of two serial killers falling in love—unexpectedly tender and deeply addictive. For those who love emotional depth, 'Powerless' by Lauren Roberts is a fantasy romance with a slow burn that left me breathless. The world-building is rich, and the chemistry between the leads is electric. Contemporary lovers shouldn't miss 'Happy Place' by Emily Henry—her signature blend of wit and heartfelt emotion shines here. Lastly, 'The Seven Year Slip' by Ashley Poston is a magical realism love story about time and second chances—utterly poetic and unforgettable.

Which Best Rated Romance Books Are Available As Audiobooks?

3 Answers2025-09-05 12:34:53
Oh, I get excited just thinking about sinking into a great romance on audio — it's like cuddling with a book and a good narrator at once. If you want crowd-pleasers that consistently rate highly and have quality audiobook productions, I usually start people on modern bestsellers: 'The Kiss Quotient' by Helen Hoang (a smart, sexy rom-com with a warm, intimate narration), 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne (a workplace enemies-to-lovers story with great comedic timing), 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston (political rom-com with a joyful voice), 'It Ends with Us' by Colleen Hoover (emotional, often discussed, powerful delivery), and 'The Time Traveler's Wife' by Audrey Niffenegger (bittersweet, lush storytelling). For sweepier romances I love pointing folks to 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon and 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah — both feel cinematic on audio and are long, immersive listens. Where to find them: Audible and Libro.fm have the biggest catalogs, but don't forget your library apps like Libby/OverDrive or Hoopla for free loans. My trick: sample a 15–30 second clip to make sure the narrator clicks with you before committing. If you like dual perspectives, search for editions that mention multi-voice or dual narration; if you want more performance, look for full-cast tags. Happy listening — some of these made me laugh aloud on walks and cry on the subway, so they're safe bets for an emotional, well-rated ride.

What Best Rated Romance Books Are Ideal For New Romance Readers?

3 Answers2025-09-05 05:30:32
Honestly, romance was the genre that pulled me back into reading for pleasure after a long nonfiction streak, and I’ve pulled together a handful of really friendly, well-loved options that are perfect if you’re just starting out. If you want a classic with warm humor and razor-sharp dialogue, try 'Pride and Prejudice' — it’s witty, brisk (for a classic), and introduces the slow-burn, enemies-to-allies dynamic without modern tropes that can feel overwhelming. For a modern, laugh-out-loud contemporary rom-com, 'The Rosie Project' is brilliant: quirky, short chapters, and an endearing lead whose social awkwardness never veers into mean territory. If you prefer something steamy but emotionally honest, 'The Kiss Quotient' is a great entry: thoughtful, character-driven, and diverse. I also recommend branching into YA for easy pacing — 'Eleanor & Park' captures first-love intensity cleanly — and picking up a queer romance like 'Red, White & Royal Blue' if you want something bubbly, fast, and celebratory. A note: some popular choices like 'Me Before You' have important content conversations around disability, so check warnings if that’s a concern. My tip is to pick by pace and trope (enemies-to-lovers, friends-to-lovers, slow burn) rather than hype; sample the first chapter or try the audiobook to see whether a book’s voice clicks with you. When one resonates, it’s addictive — and suddenly you’ve built a whole reading list without even trying.

What Are The Top-Rated Best Fantasy Romance Books On Goodreads?

5 Answers2025-06-02 19:50:00
As someone who devours fantasy romance like it’s my job, I’ve got a treasure trove of recommendations from Goodreads’ top-rated gems. 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' by Sarah J. Maas is a no-brainer—it’s got fierce heroines, swoon-worthy love interests, and a plot that hooks you from page one. The chemistry between Feyre and Rhysand is electric, and the world-building is lush. Another standout is 'From Blood and Ash' by Jennifer L. Armentrout, blending vampire lore with a slow-burn romance that’s downright addictive. For those craving something darker, 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black delivers a enemies-to-lovers dynamic with faerie politics that’s as twisted as it is romantic. If you prefer historical fantasy with a romantic twist, 'Uprooted' by Naomi Novik is a masterpiece—its quiet, atmospheric love story between Agnieszka and the Dragon is unforgettable. And let’s not forget 'The Bridge Kingdom' by Danielle L. Jensen, a marriage-of-convenience tale with political intrigue and a love that defies borders. These books aren’t just popular; they’re the cream of the crop for a reason.

What Are The Top-Rated Best Dark Romance Books On Goodreads?

4 Answers2025-07-29 20:14:40
As someone who thrives on intense emotions and complex relationships in literature, dark romance has always been my guilty pleasure. One of the highest-rated books on Goodreads in this genre is 'Corrupt' by Penelope Douglas, a gripping tale of revenge and forbidden love that keeps you on edge. Another masterpiece is 'The Maddest Obsession' by Danielle Lori, which explores obsession and passion in a way that's both unsettling and addictive. For those who enjoy a mix of danger and desire, 'Monster in His Eyes' by J.M. Darhower delves into the psyche of morally gray characters with stunning depth. 'Vicious' by L.J. Shen is another standout, featuring a love-hate relationship that's as toxic as it is captivating. If you're into mafia romance, 'The Sweetest Oblivion' by Danielle Lori combines danger and sensuality flawlessly. These books are not for the faint-hearted, but if you crave stories that push boundaries, they're absolute must-reads.

What Are The Top-Rated Best Romance Fantasy Books For Adults?

3 Answers2025-08-05 05:51:12
I've always been drawn to romance fantasy books that blend magical worlds with deep emotional connections. One of my absolute favorites is 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' by Sarah J. Maas. The way she builds the world of Prythian and the slow burn romance between Feyre and Rhysand is just perfection. Another book I adore is 'From Blood and Ash' by Jennifer L. Armentrout. The chemistry between Poppy and Hawke is electric, and the plot twists keep you hooked. 'The Bridge Kingdom' by Danielle L. Jensen is also fantastic, with its intense political intrigue and passionate love story. These books are perfect for anyone who loves a mix of adventure, magic, and romance.
Explore and read good novels for free
Free access to a vast number of good novels on GoodNovel app. Download the books you like and read anywhere & anytime.
Read books for free on the app
SCAN CODE TO READ ON APP
DMCA.com Protection Status