June book recs
a celebration of Pride & recommended reads for this joyous month
The roses are blooming, our garden is bursting in shades of green, purple, pink, yellow, and blue, and to top everything off, Pride Month is here. Happy Pride Month, lovelies!
Today I’m sharing all the delightful queer books I’ve read and a few I am currently reading in the hopes that some may catch your interest. And to be clear, queer books should be celebrated not just this month but ALL months of the year <3
Book recommendations!
Lavender House by Lev A.C. Rosen — I adore a good whodunit, and this twisty murder mystery does not disappoint. If you’ve been looking for a queer 1950’s mystery that could be comped to Knives Out, this book is for you.
Out of Character by Jenna Miller — I had the incredible good fortune to read an early version of this wonderful book. If you love slow burn romance, online roleplaying, and donuts, this book is sure to win your heart. Highly recommend!
Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston by Esme Symes Smith— This book made me tear up so many times. It is a beautifully written story of family, found family, friendships and acceptance. Adore this book and can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Just As You Are by Camille Kellogg — Be still my heart! If you love anything Pride & Prejudice inspired, look no further! This contemporary romance has all the P&P vibes and more <3
The Loophole by Naz Katub - I adore this story! I adore this author! Please grab a copy of this heartfelt book and read ASAP!
Riley Weaver Needs a Date to the Gaybutante Ball by Jason June — I just finished this book and wow was it wonderful! And bonus, it features the sweetest, most supportive romance of all time.
Even Though I knew the End by C.L. Polk — If noir-esque, fantasy novellas are more your thing, then this book is for you. I absolutely adored the world and characters in this stunning, page-turning mystery.
Sorry, Bro by Taleen Voskuni — I’m very much in love with both Taleen’s writing and the LI in this book! Cannot wait for more books from this amazing author.
Elatsoe by Darcie Little Badger - I *love* this book. Featuring a MC who can raise the ghosts of dead animals (!!!), this mystery will leave you guessing until the final, pivotal moments. Highly recommend!
Skating on Mars by Caroline Huntoon — Caroline is an absolute gem, as is this breathtaking story. I am currently reading this book and occasionally pausing to hug it to my chest!
You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson — Honestly, just read all of Leah Johnson’s books. This one captured my heart a few years ago and I am now a massive fan of everything Leah writes.
The Butterfly Assassin and The Hummingbird Killer by Finn Longman — Finn continues to keep me at the edge of my seat with every installment in this brilliant, twisty YA series. Order it today from Blackwell’s or Waterstones!
Ana on the Edge by A.J. Sass — This book is such a sweet, honest, and heart-tugging read. I adore A.J’s writing and can’t wait to read more of their books.
The Locked Tomb series by Tamsyn Muir — If you don’t know the name Gideon Nav by now this must me rectified immediately. All you need to know going in is this: Lesbian necromancers in space. If you haven’t read Gideon the Ninth and Tamsyn’s subsequent books, get them right now and settle in for an incredible, skeleton-filled ride.
Books not yet released but will be soon:
The Borrow A Boyfriend Club by Page Powars — Do yourself a favor and preorder this delightful, hilarious book this instant. I am a forever fan of Page’s writing and will shout about his books for the rest of time.
The Last Love Song by Kalie Holford — Have you been searching for a queer YA romance inspired by Mamma Mia and featuring haunting lyrics and a powerfully emotional letter-based scavenger hunt? Look no further! Kalie’s stunning debut will be released in summer 2024, so add it to your TBR now.
Night of the Living Queers edited by Shelly Page and Alex Brown — A soon-to-be-released anthology featuring a star-studded roster of authors writing all the delicious, creepy horror tropes. Do not miss this one!
There are so many more LGBTQIA+ books in my folder of all-time favorite reads, but this is a good place to start if you’re looking for inspiring, incredible stories. If you pick any up and love them, please consider leaving a positive review for the author on Goodreads! And let me know if any become your forever faves, too :)
Enjoy!
I'm so excited to add these books to my TBR list!