Books matching: queer historical fiction
17 result(s)
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- #1
Save:A joyful, clever, and subversive historical romance with bisexual leads, creative intimacy, and all the banter - absolutely worth the hype, especially if you love found family and seeing the old rules get turned on their heads.
'The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes' in the series 'The Queer Principles of Kit Webb' by Cat Sebastian follows the captivating tale of Marian, a straight-laced and scarred heroine, and Rob, a chaos bisexual with a heart of gold. The story delves into their unconventional romance that blossoms from blackmail to genuine connection through letters, leading to a real and tender relationship. With poignant social commentary, crackling wit, and a touch of scheming and thievery, the book offers a refreshing and immersive historical fiction escape.
The author skillfully weaves together themes of trauma, consent, and love, creating a charming and witty narrative that explores the complexities of relationships and personal growth. The dialogue between Marian and Rob is filled with banter, humor, and deep discussions, adding depth to their characters and enhancing the reader's connection to their story.
As soon as the man passed out—very anticlimactically, Marian was disappointed to note, just like falling asleep—Marian pulled the silk cord from her pocket and set to work binding his wrists. Things w...June 2022•352 pages - #2
Save:A clever, cryptic romp through lesbian herstory and modernist style - fun, challenging, and unmatched for those willing to dive in.
Ladies Almanack by Djuna Barnes is a satirical work that intricately weaves coded language and rich humor, challenging readers to decode the true satirical essence behind its playful narrative. Setting itself among the lesbian-centric circles of 1920s Paris, the book features Dame Evangeline Musset, a character embodying both benevolence and sensuality towards young women, reflecting the complexities of same-sex desire. Critics still debate its significance, revealing the text's capacity to embrace various interpretations while remaining enigmatic.
The writing style showcases Barnes's modernist flair, marked by archaic language and intricate structure that is at times bewildering but also deeply rewarding for those willing to engage. It stands apart from contemporary works like Radclyffe Hall’s by using obscurity as a form of expression rather than straightforward advocacy, successfully encapsulating both personal and private aspects of queer identity. Ladies Almanack is a compelling mix of affection, satire, and a living testament to Barnes's unique voice in literature, inviting readers to immerse themselves in its layers.
1928•114 pages - #3
Save:Readers of 'A Lady's Finder' by Edie Cay have found the book to be a delightful romance story featuring complex characters, especially highlighting the journey of nonbinary protagonist Jack and heroine Agnes. The plot revolves around their struggles, their unconventional lives, and their quest for happiness in a Regency setting filled with challenges such as homophobia and transphobia. The writing style of Edie Cay is commended for its ability to portray queer characters without excessive baggage, making queerness both central and a non-issue in the story.
March 2022•359 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series When The Blood Is Up ) - #4
Save:A beautifully written, character-driven blend of magic, mystery, and queer romance - perfect if you're looking for a cozy, atmospheric fantasy with heart, but maybe not for those after non-stop action or a purely plot-driven tale.
Set in an alternate Edwardian England, "A Marvellous Light" follows the story of Robin Blyth and Edwin Courcey, who are drawn into a conspiracy involving a mysterious Last Contract that could alter England's magical hierarchy. As Robin, a young noble, discovers the existence of magic and joins forces with the magic-wielding Edwin, their slow burn romance unfolds amidst a backdrop of danger and intrigue. The book combines elements of mystery, romance, and magic, with a focus on the development of the main characters and their relationship as they navigate a world where power dynamics and secrets shape their journey.
The author, Freya Marske, introduces a magical world adjacent to Edwardian England, where a system of magic intertwines with a cozy, methodical plot that gradually unfolds the mysteries at play. Through the lens of Edwin and Robin's evolving relationship, readers are immersed in a lush world rich in detail and intrigue, with a narrative that balances romance, magic, and historical elements seamlessly.
He sat breathing rapidly and with needle-stabs at each breath, propped against the oak. His legs were unfelt and unmoving like lumps of wax that had somehow been affixed to the rest of him. Resting hi...November 2021•380 pages - #5
Save:One Night in Hartswood by Emma Denny is a charming medieval MM romance that follows Raff and Penn as they embark on a journey together. Raff, feeling suffocated by his noble responsibilities, discovers Penn, who is trying to escape his oppressive life as an earl. Under the guise of a servant, Penn seeks refuge from a life he cannot bear and forms a deep connection with Raff. Their road trip adventure is filled with tension, cuddles for warmth, and moments of longing as they navigate secrets and personal growth, gradually falling in love while facing the harsh realities of their world.
Denny's writing offers a light, breezy tone that makes the story easy to digest and enjoyable. The focus is on character development rather than intricate world-building, allowing readers to deeply connect with Raff and Penn's experiences. The romance unfolds gradually, maintaining a slow burn that feels genuine and tender. The descriptions are vivid, capturing the emotions of the characters and their interactions with secondary characters. Overall, it's a delightful read for those who enjoy slow-burn romances set in historical contexts with an optimistic outlook.
November 2023•352 pages - #6
Save:A witty, action-filled romp featuring charming bad men, tangled loyalties, and a dash of romance - ideal for fans of clever, adventurous, and unapologetically queer historical fiction.
'The Henchmen of Zenda' by K.J. Charles is a thrilling adventure with romantic elements that follows the cunning narrator, Jasper Detchard, as he navigates a world of plots and schemes to help his friend and mistress, Toni. Set in the quest to dethrone a king, the story is full of action, loyalty, and moral ambiguity, all told through Jasper's sharp and cynical perspective. The book cleverly weaves together elements of heroism, double-crossing, and swashbuckling action, creating a captivating and eventful narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
May 2018•197 pages - #7
Save:A charming, whimsical Regency fantasy with memorable queer romance and a seriously entertaining narrator. Best for readers who like their magic with a side of literary flair and don't mind a leisurely stroll through a magical Bath.
Mortal Follies by Alexis Hall is a Regency fantasy romance novel narrated by the mischievous Puck, intertwining magic, mythology, and mystery in a world where gods and faeries walk among humans. The story follows Maelys Mitchelmore as she navigates a curse during her season in Bath, leading to a slow-burning romance with the enigmatic Duke of Allandale, Lady Georgiana, while unraveling the complexities of their magical world through a blend of whimsical storytelling and complex character dynamics.
June 2023•412 pages - #8
Save:A diverse, empowering collection that celebrates queer teens through time - perfect for those craving representation and bite-sized stories, even if a few entries are hit or miss.
'All Out' by Saundra Mitchell is a historical fiction anthology featuring seventeen stories by LGBTQ YA authors about LGBTQ teens at different points during history. The stories span a variety of genres such as fantasy, fairy tale retellings, and romance, showcasing LGBTQ protagonists in diverse settings and time periods. Readers praised the book for its emphasis on adventure, hopeful endings, and realistic portrayals of queer love in all its forms through the ages.
February 2018•348 pages - #9
Save:A powerful, immersive, and emotionally charged tribute to queer lives lost and loved - a beautiful but often heartbreaking read, best suited for those ready for intensity and historical fiction with soul.
Inspired by the real events captured in the documentary "Paris Is Burning," Joseph Cassara's novel, "The House of Impossible Beauties," delves into the lives of young, Latin American, gay, and transgender individuals in 1980s New York. The story follows characters like Angel, Venus, Juanito, and Daniel as they navigate the challenges of forming their own family and trying to make it in the city while facing discrimination, drug addiction, and the AIDS crisis. Written in a sassy Spanglish language, the book offers a personal and immersive experience, providing a glimpse into a world filled with beauty, joy, darkness, and tragedy.
Cassara's debut novel shines a light on the House Xtravaganza, offering an extravagant look into the Harlem Ball Scene of the 1980s. Through rich dialogue and authentic portrayal of queer culture, the author brings to life characters like Hector, Venus, Juanito, Dorian, and Angel, exploring their struggles, resilience, and relationships in the face of societal challenges and personal tragedies. The narrative captures the essence of a vibrant yet tumultuous era, providing a poignant and impactful portrayal of the lives and experiences of marginalized communities.
Oh darling, nobody was about to run up a cover of Vogue with my face on it, but I suppose you could say that I did have the name recognition in the ball scenes. And I remember when the balls were ball...February 2018•416 pages - #10
Save:A smart, beautifully written novel about identity, nostalgia, and queer coming-of-age. Read if you want honest friendships, messy emotions, and a vivid sense of early 2000s New York - skip it if you need tidy resolutions or fast-paced plotting.
"I loved a lot about this novel - the exploration of close friendship in high school, the theater plots, the queer and questioning focus. The two POVs worked well to explore the relationship, and there were some honestly laugh out loud hilarious moments in the writing here. A heartbreakingly beautiful book that I devoured in 2 days. Equal parts nostalgia and aspiration, JFT has a way of cracking open characters in such an honest, raw and vulnerable way."
September 2023•400 pages
