The best 18 Gay books

Set in 1950s Paris, "Giovanni's Room" is a powerful novel that explores themes of identity, love, and societal expectations. The story follows an American man named David as he grapples with his feelings for both a man named Giovanni and a woman named Hella. Through beautiful prose and complex characters, James Baldwin delves into the complexities of human relationships and the struggle to find one's true self.

A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood is a poignant novel that delves into the inner thoughts and emotions of a gay man named George Falconer. Set in 1960s Los Angeles, it follows George as he navigates through a day in his life after the sudden death of his partner. Through beautiful prose and introspective storytelling, the book explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a seemingly ordinary existence.

A Home at the End of the World by Michael Cunningham is a captivating novel that tells the story of three friends who form an unconventional family. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s to the 1980s, the book explores themes of love, friendship, and the search for a place to call home. With beautiful prose and deeply human characters, it delves into the complexities of relationships and the longing for connection.

Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan is a heartwarming and unconventional love story set in a high school where the social norms are turned upside down. It follows the journey of Paul, a teenage boy who falls in love with a new student named Noah. Filled with humor, romance, and acceptance, this book challenges traditional ideas of love and relationships.

Annie on My Mind by Nancy Garden is a groundbreaking young adult novel that tells the story of two teenage girls, Liza and Annie, who fall in love. Despite societal pressures and opposition from their families and school, the girls navigate their feelings for each other with courage and determination. This powerful and beautifully written book challenges stereotypes and celebrates love in all its forms.

Rubyfruit Jungle is a coming-of-age novel that follows the life of Molly Bolt, a young girl who grows up in the American South in the 1950s. The book chronicles Molly's journey as she discovers her own identity, navigates her sexuality, and challenges societal norms. It is a bold and unapologetic exploration of feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and the pursuit of personal freedom.

Two Boys Kissing by David Levithan tells the story of two boys who attempt to break the world record for the longest kiss. Set against the backdrop of a gay pride parade, the novel explores themes of love, identity, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth. It is a poignant and beautifully written book that offers a unique perspective on the complexities of teenage relationships.

The Swimming-Pool Library by Alan Hollinghurst is a rich and evocative novel that delves into the hidden world of gay culture in 1980s London. Through the protagonist's exploration of a deceased man's belongings, the book uncovers a complex web of relationships, desires, and secrets. It offers a thought-provoking examination of identity, history, and the power of storytelling.

The Lost Language of Cranes is a novel by David Leavitt that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, love, and identity. Set in 1980s New York City, the story follows a young man named Philip who comes out as gay, triggering a series of revelations and conflicts within his family. As Philip explores his own truth, the novel explores the power of secrets and the search for connection.

More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of identity, memory, and happiness. Set in a near-future Bronx neighborhood, the story follows 16-year-old Aaron Soto as he grapples with his own desires and struggles. Silvera masterfully delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, leaving readers questioning the essence of true happiness.

Dancer from the Dance is a groundbreaking novel by Andrew Holleran that delves into the vibrant and hedonistic world of gay nightlife in 1970s New York City. Through the story of Anthony Malone, a handsome and restless man in search of love and meaning, the book explores themes of identity, desire, and the pursuit of an authentic life. With lyrical prose and raw honesty, it offers a unique and powerful portrayal of the gay experience.

The Line of Beauty is a novel by Alan Hollinghurst that delves into the complexities of social class, politics, and sexuality in 1980s Britain. Through the eyes of protagonist Nick Guest, the book explores themes of desire, privilege, and the hidden tensions beneath the surface of seemingly perfect lives. It offers a compelling and nuanced portrayal of a time and place, while also delving into the personal struggles and relationships of its characters.

The City and the Pillar by Gore Vidal is a groundbreaking novel that explores themes of love, identity, and societal expectations. It tells the story of Jim Willard, who grows up in rural America and discovers his homosexuality at a young age. The book follows Jim's journey as he navigates relationships, self-discovery, and the pursuit of his true desires in a society that condemns his sexual orientation.

Brokeback Mountain by Annie Proulx is a poignant and heartbreaking tale of forbidden love. Set against the backdrop of the American West, it tells the story of two cowboys, Ennis and Jack, who form a deep emotional and physical bond while herding sheep on Brokeback Mountain. As they navigate their complex relationship over the years, the novel explores themes of love, identity, and the societal pressures that threaten to tear them apart.

Rubyfruit Jungle is a coming-of-age novel by Rita Mae Brown that follows the life of Molly Bolt, a young girl growing up in America in the mid-20th century. Molly is determined to live life on her own terms despite the challenges and prejudices she faces as a lesbian. The book is a humorous and empowering exploration of identity, independence, and the pursuit of happiness.

Fingersmith by Sarah Waters is a gripping historical novel set in Victorian England. It tells the story of Sue Trinder, a young orphan who is drawn into a plot to defraud a wealthy heiress. Full of twists and turns, the book explores themes of betrayal, love, and the power dynamics between the characters.

Less by Andrew Sean Greer is a witty and charming novel that follows the misadventures of Arthur Less, a struggling writer who embarks on a journey around the world to escape his problems. Filled with humor and poignant reflections, the book explores themes of love, aging, and the pursuit of happiness.

Maurice is a novel by E. M. Forster that tells the story of Maurice Hall, a young man who grapples with his homosexuality in the stifling social norms of early 20th century England. It explores themes of love, identity, and societal expectations, and offers a poignant portrayal of one man's journey towards self-acceptance and fulfillment.