FallenKingdomReads’ list of 10 Must-Read Queer Fantasy Books.
The world of fantasy literature has long been a place where readers can escape into new worlds and explore new possibilities. And in recent years, the genre has become more inclusive, with a growing number of queer characters and stories. In this article, we will take a look at 10 must-read queer fantasy books that celebrate diversity and representation.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
This epic fantasy novel features a diverse cast of characters, including several queer protagonists. The story follows a queen and her dragon-rider as they battle to save their world from an ancient evil. Along the way, they encounter romance, politics, and plenty of magical creatures.
The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin
This urban fantasy novel takes place in a version of New York City where each borough has a sentient avatar. One of these avatars is a queer woman who struggles with her identity and her place in the world. The story is a thrilling adventure that explores themes of identity, community, and the power of the imagination.
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
This gothic space fantasy features a queer necromancer and her sworn enemy, a cavalier who is forced to work with her to solve a mystery. The story is full of dark humor, action, and plenty of twists and turns.
The Sorcerer of the Wildeeps by Kai Ashante Wilson
This novella blends elements of fantasy and science fiction, following a group of travelers as they journey through a magical wilderness. The story features a queer romance between two of the characters and explores themes of identity, family, and love.
The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gomez
This classic novel tells the story of a black queer vampire who travels through time and space, encountering other marginalized communities along the way. The story explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of chosen family.
Witchmark by C.L. Polk
This gaslamp fantasy features a queer protagonist who must use his magical powers to solve a murder mystery and save his country from a sinister conspiracy. The story is full of political intrigue, forbidden romance, and plenty of magical action.
The Devourers by Indra Das
This dark fantasy novel is set in modern-day India and follows a queer werewolf as he recounts his long and violent history. The story is a meditation on identity, transformation, and the nature of humanity.
The Last Sun by K.D. Edwards
This urban fantasy series follows a queer private investigator who must navigate a world of magic and political intrigue to solve a mystery and protect his community. The story is full of action, romance, and a colorful cast of characters.
Ash by Malinda Lo
This retelling of Cinderella features a queer protagonist who falls in love with a huntress in a magical kingdom. The story is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and identity.
The Bone Shard Daughter by Andrea Stewart
This epic fantasy novel features a diverse cast of characters, including a queer scholar who uncovers a conspiracy that threatens her empire. The story is full of political intrigue, magical creatures, and plenty of twists and turns.
In conclusion, the world of fantasy literature has become more inclusive in recent years, with a growing number of queer characters and stories. These 10 must-read queer fantasy books celebrate diversity and representation, taking readers on thrilling adventures filled with magic, romance, and plenty of twists and turns.
