The best books about bisexuality

Who picked these books? Meet our 41 experts.

41 authors created a book list connected to bisexuality, and here are their favorite bisexuality books.
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Book cover of Studies in the Psychology of Sex: Volume 2 Sexual Inversion

Julia Shaw Author Of Bi: The Hidden Culture, History, and Science of Bisexuality

From the list on bisexuality research, history, and culture deep dive.

Who am I?

I am a psychological scientist, BBC science communicator, and best-selling author. I am also bisexual. As an academic, my tendency is to immediately look for research and scholarly writing about topics that interest me. But for bisexuality, I found that this was incredibly hard to do. So, I dug into archives and journals, connected with hundreds of bisexuality researchers and activists, and after much searching, I finally found the answers to questions I had had my entire life. I wrote them all down in my new book Bi.

Julia's book list on bisexuality research, history, and culture deep dive

Discover why each book is one of Julia's favorite books.

Why did Julia love this book?

If you’re a bi history nerd like me, you’re going to love this insight into some of the early thoughts on bisexuality by sex researcher Havelock Ellis. Already in the late 1800s, Ellis - who was in an open relationship, and whose wife was bisexual - did research with bisexual people. 

His writing shows us that bisexuality isn’t trendy or new, that the stereotypes we battle today were already being criticised over a century ago, and that some people had positive ideas about bisexuality. For example, Ellis attributed the success of great leaders and artists to their bisexuality. He credits this to the “innately democratic attitude” of bisexual people to see beyond social class. Ellis a key figure in bi history who often gets missed, but his work can give a real sense of connectedness with our past. 

His books can be hard to find in print, but Project Gutenberg…

By Havelock Ellis,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Studies in the Psychology of Sex as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Studies in the Psychology of Sex, Volume 2


Red, White & Royal Blue

By Casey McQuiston,

Book cover of Red, White & Royal Blue

Mary E. Twomey Author Of Angry Girl

From the list on “LGBTQ people are allowed to exist” reads.

Who am I?

I have an inclusive family with LGBTCuties whom I love dearly. I write and read paranormal romance, but quickly realized that my family might not be able to connect with my favorite genre because they don’t often see themselves represented as anything more than tragic plot points. I gaped at the horror that was hard to face, and realized I had work to do. Paranormal romance has enough room for all of us, so I set out to ensure that my children have books to read in my favorite genre, so we can all be one silly, magical family together, casting spells and looking around every corner for shifters and vampires.

Mary's book list on “LGBTQ people are allowed to exist” reads

Discover why each book is one of Mary's favorite books.

Why did Mary love this book?

This book has plenty of push and pull, and I couldn’t put it down.

I wanted the main guys to get together so badly, and loved watching them grow as young men, making important decisions for their respective countries while making peace with the social lens constantly being aimed their way. 

By Casey McQuiston,

Why should I read it?

5 authors picked Red, White & Royal Blue as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

* Instant NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY bestseller *
* GOODREADS CHOICE AWARD WINNER for BEST DEBUT and BEST ROMANCE of 2019 *
* BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR* for VOGUE, NPR, VANITY FAIR, and more! *

What happens when America's First Son falls in love with the Prince of Wales?

When his mother became President, Alex Claremont-Diaz was promptly cast as the American equivalent of a young royal. Handsome, charismatic, genius--his image is pure millennial-marketing gold for the White House. There's only one problem: Alex has a beef with the actual prince, Henry, across the pond. And when…


Shatter the Sky

By Rebecca Kim Wells,

Book cover of Shatter the Sky

Leanne M. Pankuch Author Of Dragon's Truth

From the list on girls and dragons, or girl dragons.

Who am I?

I grew up reading and re-reading Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy. But it always bothered me that there weren’t many girls or women in those books—and most of those that did appear were pretty, perfect, and—well—kind of boring. In college, I studied literature, myths, and fairytales and found that most of the female characters in those stories didn’t reflect women I wanted to be or know, either. So, I wrote my own high fantasy novel and continue to seek out great fantasy, sci-fi, and fairytale-inspired literature featuring strong female characters that are dragons on the inside—and sometimes on the outside, too. 

Leanne's book list on girls and dragons, or girl dragons

Discover why each book is one of Leanne's favorite books.

Why did Leanne love this book?

Shatter the Sky is a quick-read YA high fantasy. It’s the story of Maren, who wants to live an ordinary life with her girlfriend, Kaia. When Kaia is kidnapped, Maren decides to apprentice herself to the Aromatory—the emperor’s mysterious dragon tamer—as a first step in her rescue plan. 

Shatter the Sky features a number of diverse characters and a sapphic romance and has been highly praised for breaking ground in the YA fantasy realm. I particularly enjoyed the Aromatory, the new take on dragons, and a main character who begins by viewing herself as unimportant but progresses to accepting her power and recognizing her value. Maren’s story continues—with ramped-up stakes, more dragons, and a complicated political plot in the meatier second book in this duology—Storm the Earth.

By Rebecca Kim Wells,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Shatter the Sky as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

New England Book Award Finalist

“A top-notch dragon story…Both nuanced and real.” —Shelf Awareness (starred review)
“I absolutely devoured it.” —Mackenzi Lee, bestselling author of The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue
“Perfect for fans of Tamora Pierce, Renée Ahdieh, and Cindy Pon.” —Saundra Mitchell, author of All the Things We Do in the Dark and editor of YA anthology All Out

A determined young woman sets out to rescue her kidnapped girlfriend by stealing a dragon from the corrupt emperor in this stunning fantasy debut that’s perfect for fans of Margaret Rogerson, Rae Carson, and Rachel Hartman.

Raised among…


Delilah Green Doesn't Care

By Ashley Herring Blake,

Book cover of Delilah Green Doesn't Care

Cheyenne Blue Author Of The Number 94 Project

From the list on sapphic romances that have a deeper side.

Who am I?

I’ve been writing lesbian and sapphic stories for a couple of decades now, and over time, I’ve gravitated to stories that have something else going on as well as pure romance. Romance doesn’t evolve in a vacuum, and the setting, scenario, and supporting characters can all help shape the main characters’ romance. I love these fun-filled books that also carry a deeper side, whether it’s a subplot or the main story. That’s what I love to write and read, and I hope you enjoy these recommendations as much as I do.

Cheyenne's book list on sapphic romances that have a deeper side

Discover why each book is one of Cheyenne's favorite books.

Why did Cheyenne love this book?

A gorgeous fun-filled small-town sapphic romance (lesbian and bisexual rep). Delilah is a struggling photographer in New York when she’s persuaded home to Bright Falls to photograph her estranged stepsister’s wedding. As well as fighting from a place of hurt with her stepsister Astrid, Delilah falls for Claire, Astrid’s BFF. 

The writing is sassy and smart and oh-so-much fun, but this is no pure rom-com. There’s depth to the characters, even the minor ones like Claire’s daughter Ruby, and her friend Iris. Delilah, too, isn’t the shallow don’t-care person of the title. She’s holding a world of hurt inside her brittle exterior. Layers are peeled back gradually, and the characters reveal themselves slowly, all inside some writing so shiny it sparkles. It’s pure, big-hearted romance that gives you all the feels as you romp to the happy ending.

Delilah Green Doesn’t Care is (so far) my favourite read of 2022,…

By Ashley Herring Blake,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Delilah Green Doesn't Care as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A clever and steamy queer romantic comedy about taking chances and accepting love—with all its complications—from the author of Astrid Parker Doesn't Fail.

Delilah Green swore she would never go back to Bright Falls—nothing is there for her but memories of a lonely childhood where she was little more than a burden to her cold and distant stepfamily. Her life is in New York, with her photography career finally gaining steam and her bed never empty. Sure, it’s a different woman every night, but that’s just fine with her.
 
When Delilah’s estranged stepsister, Astrid, pressures her into photographing her wedding…


The Coldest Touch

By Isabel Sterling,

Book cover of The Coldest Touch

Lorien Lawrence Author Of The Stitchers

From the list on non-sparkly vampires.

Who am I?

Vampires are the coolest monsters. Change my mind. Actually, forget it – you can’t change my mind. Because I’m right. I have always – I mean always – loved vampires. Reading about them, watching them – all the things. The first time I read Interview with a Vampire changed me forever as a human. There’s something so universally appealing about these immortal bloodsuckers. Maybe it’s because they stay forever young. Or maybe it’s because they look like humans, therefore, they can often hide (or lurk) in plain sight. As an author of my own monster stories, I find them inspiring. So, here’s a list of my recent favs that you can sink your own teeth into. 

Lorien's book list on non-sparkly vampires

Discover why each book is one of Lorien's favorite books.

Why did Lorien love this book?

I love seeing how contemporary authors can move vampires into the modern age. The Coldest Touch does this with a cast of very flawed characters dealing with complicated feelings (i.e. a budding romance between a human and a vampire). As if that wasn’t enough, there is a Death Oracle. I mean, who doesn’t love a doomed future with some characters trying to change the odds? 

By Isabel Sterling,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Coldest Touch as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

“Vampires going to high school, but make it queer. Sterling delivers a fresh, thoughtful take on beloved paranormal tropes with a delightfully bloody romance.” —Mara Fitzgerald, author of Beyond the Ruby Veil
 
From the author of These Witches Don't Burn comes another paranormal romance for fans of Richelle Mead and Stephenie Meyer.

Elise Beaumont is cursed. With every touch, she experiences exactly how her loved ones will die. And after her brother's death—a death she predicted but was unable to prevent—Elise is desperate to get rid of her terrible gift, no matter the cost.
 
Claire Montgomery also has a unique…


Autoboyography

By Christina Lauren,

Book cover of Autoboyography

Louise Willingham Author Of Not Quite Out

From the list on coming out.

Who am I?

Louise is a geographer and writer from Staffordshire, England, where she aims to someday own a house with a library. Until then, she is collecting books of all genres – from romantic YA to true crime – and working on improving her embroidery skills. She can often be found either yelling about queer rights or walking through the countryside sometimes both!

Louise's book list on coming out

Discover why each book is one of Louise's favorite books.

Why did Louise love this book?

Coming out once is difficult, but going back into the closet is a unique sort of challenge. Tanner and Sebastian fall in love when neither of them are exactly ready for it, and their conflicting backgrounds make it difficult for them to reach a happy medium. No spoilers, but this book presented the pain of coming out – or not better than any other I’ve read.

By Christina Lauren,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Autoboyography as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Coming-of-age novel about two boys who fall in love in a writing class-one from a progressive family and the other from a conservative religious community.

Three years ago, Tanner Scott's family relocated from California to Utah, a move that nudged the bisexual teen temporarily back into the closet. Now, with one semester of high school to go, and no obstacles between him and out-of-state college freedom, Tanner plans to coast through his remaining classes and clear out of Utah.
But when his best friend Autumn dares him to take Provo High's prestigious Seminar-where honor roll students diligently toil to draft…


Book cover of Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake

Bethany Bennett Author Of Dukes Do It Better

From the list on single parent romances that bang.

Who am I?

I spent a decade as a single mom, so stories featuring solo parent protagonists make my book antennae perk up. A happy ever after is a must for a relaxing read, and I prefer stories that don’t slam the door in your face when things heat up between the couple. So much character work can happen between the sheets—especially when you’re dealing with people who have been hurt by love before. While there are closed-door or chaste romances out there that feature single parents, those are less likely to end up in my TBR, and thus less likely for me to push them into your hands.

Bethany's book list on single parent romances that bang

Discover why each book is one of Bethany's favorite books.

Why did Bethany love this book?

As a reader, I adore Alexis Hall. As a writer, his pitch-perfect prose and wonderful characters give me a bad case of Holy-Crap-I-Could-Never-Write-This-Well. Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake straddles the line between Women’s Fiction and Romance. Yes, there’s a happy ever after, but the story is about more than the romantic relationship. Rosaline truly goes through a period of growth and healing, with a focus on her versus the couple that is reminiscent of Women’s Fic. She’s a single mother and a baker on a show inspired by The Great British Bake-off. A racially and sexually diverse cast of characters entertain and sometimes challenge you to think differently as Hall deftly maneuvers everyone to their happy place.

By Alexis Hall,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'A dizzyingly talented writer' Entertainment Weekly

'Joyfully queer, absurdly funny and swoonily romantic' K J Charles

'Brilliance on every single page' Christina Lauren

LGBTQ Reads: Most Anticipated Adult LGBTQAP Fiction 2021
We Are Bookish: Spring Releases to Have on Your Radar
_____________

A delicious romantic comedy by the bestselling author of Boyfriend Material, perfect for fans of Casey McQuiston, Christina Lauren, and Abby Jimenez.

As an expert baker, Rosaline Palmer is a big believer in always following the recipe. She's lived her life by that rule - well, except for when she dropped out of college to raise her daughter,…


Bisexuality in Europe

By Emiel Maliepaard (editor), Renate Baumgartner (editor),

Book cover of Bisexuality in Europe: Sexual Citizenship, Romantic Relationships, and Bi+ Identities

Julia Shaw Author Of Bi: The Hidden Culture, History, and Science of Bisexuality

From the list on bisexuality research, history, and culture deep dive.

Who am I?

I am a psychological scientist, BBC science communicator, and best-selling author. I am also bisexual. As an academic, my tendency is to immediately look for research and scholarly writing about topics that interest me. But for bisexuality, I found that this was incredibly hard to do. So, I dug into archives and journals, connected with hundreds of bisexuality researchers and activists, and after much searching, I finally found the answers to questions I had had my entire life. I wrote them all down in my new book Bi.

Julia's book list on bisexuality research, history, and culture deep dive

Discover why each book is one of Julia's favorite books.

Why did Julia love this book?

For academic perspectives on bisexuality, this book is a great resource. Because many books on bisexuality are centred in or around North America this is a welcome addition. It is the first to bring together academic research on bisexual people from around Europe. It also won the Bisexual Book Award for Best Non-Fiction Book of 2020 (if you’re looking for more bi books the annual Bi book awards by the Bi Writers Association is always a good place to search!). 

The book includes research from different disciplines, showcasing the many ways that scholars have approached bi+ issues. It provides fascinating insights that are a great stepping stone for venturing deeper into the topic. 

Textbooks can be expensive, and many academic articles are locked behind pay-walls, so the authors made sure that there’s an open access version of the textbook (click the direct link below).

By Emiel Maliepaard (editor), Renate Baumgartner (editor),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Bisexuality in Europe as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Bisexuality in Europe offers an accessible and diverse overview of research on bisexuality and bi+ people in Europe, providing a foundation for theorising and empirical work on plurisexual orientations and identities, and the experiences and realities of people who desire more than one sex or gender

Counteracting the predominance of work on bisexuality based in Ango-American contexts, this collection of fifteen contributions from both early-career and more senior academics reflects the current state of research in Europe on bisexuality and people who desire more than one sex or gender. The book is structured around three interlinked themes that resonate well…


The Devouring Gray

By C L Herman,

Book cover of The Devouring Gray

David Ferraro Author Of The Alchemy of Moonlight

From the list on Gothic with dark and haunting family secrets.

Who am I?

Horror has had a place in my life since my parents let me watch horror movies at far too young an age. But horror comes in many forms, and I’ve found that my love for atmosphere supersedes that of cheap thrills. In Gothic literature, atmosphere is everything. Done right, it paints an unsettling picture that builds tension for readers hoping to get lost in a disquieting world. A lover of classics, I was drawn to Gothic texts, from Dracula to the works of Edgar Allen Poe, and my Gothic novel The Alchemy of Moonlight is a love letter to the pioneers who shaped these shadowy worlds for generation of readers.

David's book list on Gothic with dark and haunting family secrets

Discover why each book is one of David's favorite books.

Why did David love this book?

Roiling fog and shadows cloak the evil at the heart of this tale of hidden pasts and restrained magic.

Strange occurrences and vague prophecies push our cast of characters together, even if they would rather not be, creating an unsettling dynamic between the forces at work in the small town of Four Paths.

Violet doesn’t seem to fit in, but as a descendant of one of the founding families, it’s her destiny to confront what awakens in the woods, as well as her ties to a mysterious and dark legacy. In my opinion, this book is a perfect marriage of a Gothic novel and YA.

By C L Herman,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Devouring Gray as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

On the edge of town, a beast haunts the woods, trapped in the Gray, its bonds loosening...

Uprooted from the city, Violet Saunders doesn't have much hope of fitting in at her new school in Four Paths, a town almost buried in the woodlands of rural New York. The fact that she's descended from one of the town's founders doesn't help much, either-her new neighbours treat her with distant respect, and something very like fear. When she meets Justin, May, Isaac, and Harper, all children of founder families, and sees the otherworldly destruction they can wreak, she starts to wonder…


Vampires Never Get Old

By Zoraida Córdova (editor), Natalie C. Parker (editor),

Book cover of Vampires Never Get Old

Lorien Lawrence Author Of The Stitchers

From the list on non-sparkly vampires.

Who am I?

Vampires are the coolest monsters. Change my mind. Actually, forget it – you can’t change my mind. Because I’m right. I have always – I mean always – loved vampires. Reading about them, watching them – all the things. The first time I read Interview with a Vampire changed me forever as a human. There’s something so universally appealing about these immortal bloodsuckers. Maybe it’s because they stay forever young. Or maybe it’s because they look like humans, therefore, they can often hide (or lurk) in plain sight. As an author of my own monster stories, I find them inspiring. So, here’s a list of my recent favs that you can sink your own teeth into. 

Lorien's book list on non-sparkly vampires

Discover why each book is one of Lorien's favorite books.

Why did Lorien love this book?

I love a short story collection. Give me a short story collection about my all-time favorite monsters?? Yes please! Vampires Never Gets Old: Tales with Fresh Bite was the anthology I had been waiting for. Diverse stories, new takes on old tropes, the addition of modern technology – this collection has it all. Some of the stories were funny, some were poignant, some were scary, some were sad. Of course, I preferred some over others – that’s just how anthologies go - but they were all worth a read. My favorite in the collection was Kayla Whaley’s “In Kind”, which was absolutely heartbreaking. Take a read and let me know which one was your favorite!

By Zoraida Córdova (editor), Natalie C. Parker (editor),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Vampires Never Get Old as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Eleven fresh vampire stories from young adult fiction’s leading voices fill this bestselling anthology―including V.E. Schwab's First Kill, now a major Netflix adaptation!

"Boundary-pushing... Stories that stake a new claim on old tropes." ―Publishers Weekly, starred review

In this delicious new collection, you’ll find stories about lurking vampires of social media, rebellious vampires hungry for more than just blood, eager vampires coming out―and going out for their first kill―and other bold, breathtaking, dangerous, dreamy, eerie, iconic, powerful creatures of the night.

Welcome to the evolution of the vampire―and a revolution on the page.

Vampires Never Get Old includes stories by…


The Bi-ble

By Lauren Nickodemus (editor), Ellen Desmond (editor),

Book cover of The Bi-ble: Volume Two

Julia Shaw Author Of Bi: The Hidden Culture, History, and Science of Bisexuality

From the list on bisexuality research, history, and culture deep dive.

Who am I?

I am a psychological scientist, BBC science communicator, and best-selling author. I am also bisexual. As an academic, my tendency is to immediately look for research and scholarly writing about topics that interest me. But for bisexuality, I found that this was incredibly hard to do. So, I dug into archives and journals, connected with hundreds of bisexuality researchers and activists, and after much searching, I finally found the answers to questions I had had my entire life. I wrote them all down in my new book Bi.

Julia's book list on bisexuality research, history, and culture deep dive

Discover why each book is one of Julia's favorite books.

Why did Julia love this book?

If it’s personal accounts and many different voices you are looking for, The Bi-ble: Vol. 2 is perfect. It includes essays by various bisexual people, giving brief and poignant insights into their lives. 

This easy-to-read collection is a good example of the long tradition of anthologies in bi+ literature. Some stories are deeply relatable, others challenge you to look beyond your own experiences. It helped me to realise that while there is a commonality between the experiences of bisexual people, there are important individual differences that we need to keep in mind. No one person can speak for the entire bi community, so this book lets many people have their own voice.

By Lauren Nickodemus (editor), Ellen Desmond (editor),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Bi-ble as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.


Fat Off, Fat On

By Clarkisha Kent,

Book cover of Fat Off, Fat On: A Big Bitch Manifesto

Ernest Owens Author Of The Case for Cancel Culture: How This Democratic Tool Works to Liberate Us All

From the list on modern-day Black social consciousness.

Who am I?

I’m a Philadelphia-based journalist and new author. I’m the Editor at Large for Philadelphia Magazine and President of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists. As an openly Black gay journalist, I’ve headlined for speaking frankly about intersectional issues in society regarding race, LGBTQIA, and pop culture. Such experiences have awakened my consciousness as an underrepresented voice in the media and have pushed me to explore societal topics. My new book The Case for Cancel Culture, published by St. Martin's Press, is my way of staking my claim in the global conversation on this buzzworthy topic. 

Ernest's book list on modern-day Black social consciousness

Discover why each book is one of Ernest's favorite books.

Why did Ernest love this book?

This book proved to me that you can be both funny and brutally honest, insightful and sobering.

Kent, who’s been a rising star in media, holds back no punches in this gut-wrenching that explores sexuality, body positivity, gender, race, and all of the societal afflictions that come with one learning to embrace themselves unapologetically.

The book not only explores the ideas we already have on such subject matter, but challenges us to rethink everything we often promote as positive affirmation.

It’s the kind of book you read multiple times as a pathway to becoming a more empathic person to individuals you already thought you understood.  

By Clarkisha Kent,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Fat Off, Fat On as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In this disarming and candid memoir, cultural critic Clarkisha Kent unpacks the kind of compounded problems you face when you’re a fat, Black, queer woman in a society obsessed with heteronormativity.

There was no easy way for Kent to navigate personal discovery and self-love. As a dark-skinned, first-generation American facing a myriad of mental health issues and intergenerational trauma, at times Kent’s body felt like a cosmic punishment. In the face of body dysmorphia, homophobia, anti-Blackness, and respectability politics, the pursuit of “high self-esteem” seemed oxymoronic. 

Fat Off, Fat On: A Big Bitch Manifesto is a humorous, at times tragic,…


Book cover of Leaving's Not the Only Way to Go

Laina Villeneuve Author Of Birds of a Feather

From the list on neurodiverse women who love women.

Who am I?

I was thrown into the deep end to learn about autism when our first son was diagnosed as autistic. As first-time parents, how were we to know that the struggles we faced went beyond the norm? We also have twins, one of whom is ADHD and the other dyslexic. Thus, not only have I spent a lot of time learning about autism, but I also enjoy turning to fiction to learn how others both struggle and find solutions. I started writing because the bedtime routine with my kiddos was very difficult. Nearly twelve years later, I am still using my writing to overcome the obstacles in my life. 

Laina's book list on neurodiverse women who love women

Discover why each book is one of Laina's favorite books.

Why did Laina love this book?

One of the things I love most about this book is how much Georgia learns about herself by raising an autistic daughter.

I have found the same to be true as my wife and I are raising an autistic son. The more I learn about him, the more I learn about myself. It is a wonderful experience to see myself mirrored in a character. Though Georgia and Lauren face many obstacles, Georgia’s daughter, Hannah, keeps pulling them back together.

I am a sucker for a cute kid who knows more about what the grownups in their lives need than they do. 

By Kay Acker,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Leaving's Not the Only Way to Go as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Lauren Ashburn left a promising job to help her family in Vermont take care of her dying father. Now that he’s gone, Lauren has every intention of returning to her old life―the vibrant, successful one her father had always expected her to have. But Lauren discovers that she feels adrift without his strict guidance.

Georgia Solomon designs homes for others. But as a bisexual autistic woman, she rarely feels at home herself. When her best friend dies suddenly, leaving her alone with their young daughter, her little slice of happiness vanishes.  Now Georgia finds herself struggling to navigate a world…


Take a Hint, Dani Brown

By Talia Hibbert,

Book cover of Take a Hint, Dani Brown

Gia De Cadenet Author Of Not the Plan

From the list on helping romance lovers remember who they are.

Who am I?

As a long-time expat in France, a creative and a Black woman, I get othered and rejected a lot. I’ve had to learn how to own my story – of starting over, of building something from nothing, of remembering where I’ve been, and reminding myself of where I’m going. I had to learn to reject the labels that others want to put on me and draft my own personal hype mantra then embellish it with a little bombshell sparkle. The books I’ve chosen are meant to entertain while giving you the chance to remind yourself of who you are and who you can choose to be.  

Gia's book list on helping romance lovers remember who they are

Discover why each book is one of Gia's favorite books.

Why did Gia love this book?

Dani Brown is career-focused and does not have time for a relationship (like my lead Isadora) – but great sex is always on the menu.

When she thinks she’s found a good partner in brooding ex-rugby player Zaf (who reads romance novels on the sly!), the universe conspires to put them in a fake dating relationship for the sake of publicity for a children’s charity.

You can never go wrong with Talia Hibbert, but I particularly enjoyed Take a Hint because Dani is very clear on who she is and what she wants. Owning your wants and honoring them is – say it with me – truly badass.

By Talia Hibbert,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked Take a Hint, Dani Brown as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'Talia Hibbert is a rockstar! Her writing is smart, funny, and sexy' Meg Cabot

'The author's charm and wit sings off the page in this delightful fake-romance fare' Bolu Babalola, bestselling author of Love in Colour

USA Today bestselling author Talia Hibbert returns with another charming romantic comedy about a young woman who agrees to fake date her friend after a video of him 'rescuing' her from their office building goes viral - perfect for fans of Sally Thorne, Jasmine Guillory and Helen Hoang!

Danika Brown knows what she wants: professional success, academic renown and an occasional roll in the…


You're Next

By Kylie Schachte,

Book cover of You're Next

S.W. Leicher Author Of Acts of Assumption

From the list on shattering the image of the word lesbian.

Who am I?

My family is a marvelously mixed bunch: lesbian, gay, and straight relatives; Jewish and Latin relatives; relatives along a spectrum of economic situations, abilities, and political views.  The policy work that I do connects me with social justice advocates from across NYC’s multiple ethnic, racial, religious, and LGBTQ communities. The wildly disparate voices that surround me illuminate both the power of communal ties and the dangers of narrow identity labeling.  A central quest behind my work, my reading, and my writing has thus always been to balance and respect everything at once: the cultural structures that sustain us; the individual quirks that challenge and complicate those structures; and the universalities that cross all cultural borders.

S.W.'s book list on shattering the image of the word lesbian

Discover why each book is one of S.W.'s favorite books.

Why did S.W. love this book?

Flora Calhoun—sixteen-year-old, self-appointed sleuth—is hot on the trail of a series of brutal attacks on young women. Ostracized by the in-crowd at her school for her unruly tongue (and for the secrets she uncovers about everyone)—reprimanded by those who love her for putting herself (and them) in constant danger—she ploughs determinedly ahead into increasingly dark and perilous territory. You’re Next is a quintessential YA book—full of the angst, the parental problems, and the acute social commentary of its snarky young protagonist. But does it dwell on the fact that Flora is bisexual? Not for a moment. It seems that in the world of contemporary YA literature we have finally reached the point at which that aspect of Flora’s life is no biggie. Amen.

By Kylie Schachte,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked You're Next as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

When a girl with a troubled history of finding dead bodies investigates the murder of her ex, she uncovers a plot to put herself---and everyone she loves---on the list of who's next.

Flora Calhoun has a reputation for sticking her nose where it doesn't belong. After stumbling upon a classmate's body years ago, the trauma of that discovery and the police's failure to find the killer has haunted her ever since. One night, she gets a midnight text from Ava McQueen, the beautiful girl who had ignited Flora's heart last summer, then never spoke to her again.

Just in time…


Deposing Nathan

By Zack Smedley,

Book cover of Deposing Nathan

Heather DiAngelis Author Of Speech and Debacles

From the list on queer YA exploring mental health.

Who am I?

I’ve struggled with mental health for most of my life, as have family members and friends I love. It’s extremely important to me that we normalize discussions of mental health so that we can find the best solutions. Anxiety and depression have been major themes in all of the young adult novels I’ve written; it’s my little way of furthering these conversations with the people who need them. I hope you’ll find these suggestions relatable, enjoyable, and question-inducing!

Heather's book list on queer YA exploring mental health

Discover why each book is one of Heather's favorite books.

Why did Heather love this book?

Deposing Nathan was everything I'd dreamed it would be—deep, torturous, intense, and beautiful. Zack Smedley’s poignant and relevant storytelling hooked me from the first line to the unexpected twist and through the surprising ending. In this powerful story, Nate has been called to deliver a sworn statement against his ex-boyfriend Cam. What first seemed like a simple premise brought me back to my days of questioning sexuality, religion, family expectations, and familial commitment, and it unearthed memories of the struggles of finding myself as a teenager and navigating complex emotions. 

By Zack Smedley,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Deposing Nathan as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Nate never imagined that he would be attacked by his best friend, Cam.

Now, Nate is being called to deliver a sworn statement that will get Cam convicted. The problem is, the real story isn't that easy or convenient - just like Nate and Cam's friendship. Cam challenged Nate on every level from the day the boys met. He pushed him to break the rules, to dream, and to accept himself. But Nate - armed with a fierce moral code and conflicted by his own beliefs - started to push back. With each push, Nate and Cam moved closer to…


A Dowry of Blood

By S. T. Gibson,

Book cover of A Dowry of Blood

Lianyu Tan Author Of Captive in the Underworld: A Dark Lesbian Romance Novel

From the list on queer stories inspired by myths, legends, and classics.

Who am I?

I loved books as a kid, especially fantasy books, but could never find anyone like me within their pages. I’m a lesbian Chinese writer who adores stories about messed-up, complicated queer people. I’m thrilled by the range of books available now that feature queer, messy characters. We all deserve representation, and to me that means representation that’s complex, that encompasses the ugly and the beautiful. One of my goals as an author is to make you fall in love with monsters—brutal, flawed women who may not deserve love, but who demand it all the same.

Lianyu's book list on queer stories inspired by myths, legends, and classics

Discover why each book is one of Lianyu's favorite books.

Why did Lianyu love this book?

A Dowry of Blood is an homage to Dracula’s brides, written entirely in epistolary format by his first bride, Constanta. It starts in the middle ages and spans several centuries as Dracula (ever nameless in this book) collects two more brides besides Constanta, creating an MFFM polycule.

It’s a repudiation of abusive romantic relationships, and to that end it’s deeply satisfying. A Dowry of Blood is a standalone gothic horror, with an all-bisexual cast of vampires.

By S. T. Gibson,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked A Dowry of Blood as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

S.T. Gibson's sensational novel is the darkly seductive tale of Dracula's first bride, Constanta. 

This is my last love letter to you, though some would call it a confession. . .

Saved from the brink of death by a mysterious stranger, Constanta is transformed from a medieval peasant into a bride fit for an undying king. But when Dracula draws a cunning aristocrat and a starving artist into his web of passion and deceit, Constanta realizes that her beloved is capable of terrible things.

Finding comfort in the arms of her rival consorts, she begins to unravel their husband's dark…


Bi

By Shiri Eisner,

Book cover of Bi: Notes for a Bisexual Revolution

Julia Shaw Author Of Bi: The Hidden Culture, History, and Science of Bisexuality

From the list on bisexuality research, history, and culture deep dive.

Who am I?

I am a psychological scientist, BBC science communicator, and best-selling author. I am also bisexual. As an academic, my tendency is to immediately look for research and scholarly writing about topics that interest me. But for bisexuality, I found that this was incredibly hard to do. So, I dug into archives and journals, connected with hundreds of bisexuality researchers and activists, and after much searching, I finally found the answers to questions I had had my entire life. I wrote them all down in my new book Bi.

Julia's book list on bisexuality research, history, and culture deep dive

Discover why each book is one of Julia's favorite books.

Why did Julia love this book?

If you’re interested in bisexual activism, and how to mobilise people to fight for Bi+ rights, this book is for you. 

It is a dive into bisexual politics written by one of the world’s most prominent bisexual activists. It is also one of the most mentioned books within the bi community, helping a generation of people to feel empowered to deconstruct monosexuality. Inspiring best-selling authors, journalists, and many of the bisexual researchers I have worked with over the years, this book has become an important part of bi culture.

By Shiri Eisner,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Bi as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Depicted as duplicitous, traitorous, and promiscuous, bisexuality has long been suspected, marginalized, and rejected by both straight and gay communities alike. Bi takes a long overdue, comprehensive look at bisexual politics- from the issues surrounding biphobia/monosexism, feminism, and transgenderism to the practice of labeling those who identify as bi as either too bisexual" (promiscuous and incapable of fidelity) or not bisexual enough" (not actively engaging romantically or sexually with people of at least two different genders). In this forward-thinking and eye-opening book, feminist bisexual and genderqueer activist Shiri Eisner takes readers on a journey through the many aspects of the…


Some Girls Do

By Jennifer Dugan,

Book cover of Some Girls Do

Dahlia Adler Author Of Home Field Advantage

From the list on queer teen athletes.

Who am I?

My newest YA novel, Home Field Advantage, is your typical cliché sports romance between a high school quarterback and aspiring cheer captain…except that they’re both girls. Sports is such a fascinating setting for queer YA to me, because it adds a whole extra social dynamic of being teammates and how that can work for or against you, depending on the culture and who you are. It’s also a great venue for subversion of gender norms, which is always welcome to me! And in general, I really just love protagonists who are really passionate about what they do. If they happen to be queer as well, that’s just a nice bonus!

Dahlia's book list on queer teen athletes

Discover why each book is one of Dahlia's favorite books.

Why did Dahlia love this book?

Dugan is one of my absolute favorite authors of queer YA, and this romance between out-and-proud track star Morgan and closeted Ruby is a perfect illustration why, merging a fun high school setting and passionate main characters with the very relevant situation of managing your public level of queerness. It’s thoughtful and sweet, romantic and funny, and above all, real. 

By Jennifer Dugan,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked Some Girls Do as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In this YA contemporary queer romance from the author of Hot Dog Girl, an openly gay track star falls for a closeted, bisexual teen beauty queen with a penchant for fixing up old cars. Now available in paperback!

Morgan, an elite track athlete, is forced to transfer high schools late in her senior year after it turns out being queer is against her private Catholic school's code of conduct. There, she meets Ruby, who has two hobbies: tinkering with her baby blue 1970 Ford Torino and competing in local beauty pageants, the latter to live out the dreams of her…


A Month of Sundays

By John Updike,

Book cover of A Month of Sundays

James Y. Bartlett Author Of The Majors Collection: Hacker Golf Mystery Box Set

From the list on golf fiction.

Who am I?

I started writing about golf years ago… I went from freelancing to working for Golfweek and pretty soon had a career! I thought I had a brilliant idea: a series of mysteries with a golf theme! Then I learned there were about 267 other golf mysteries already out there, starting with Dame Agatha’s Murder on the Links! Oops.  I eventually wrote seven Hacker novels, finally getting my golf-writer-turned-sleuth through all four majors. I also published a historical novel set in Scotland (sorry, no golf) and just launched the new Swamp Yankee Mystery series, set in a small Rhode Island town remarkably similar to the one I live in!

James' book list on golf fiction

Discover why each book is one of James' favorite books.

Why did James love this book?

John Updike, writing about golf? Well, why not? This novel, from one of America’s greatest writers, is something of a riff on Hawthorne’s Scarlet Letter, in a story about a disgraced minister sent off on a sabbatical. He keeps a daily journal, which is what makes up the novel.

Naturally, this being Updike, there are stories about his affairs, his drinking, his family relationships, and more. But there are also wonderful passages about his golf game. Like much of Updike’s work, this book is thought-provoking and an interesting window into the American mind of the 20th century.

By John Updike,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Month of Sundays as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Updike's seventh novel concerns a month of seven days, a month of enforced rest and recreation as experienced by the Reverend Tom Marshfield, sent west from his Midwestern church in disgrace.