Best Lesbian Books

A groundbreaking coming-of-age novel that launched the career of a celebrated author. Rubyfruit Jungle follows the story of Molly Bolt, who defies societal norms as a Southern adoptee forging her own path in America. With sharp humor and bold wit, Brown's prose masterfully portrays Molly's journey as a lesbian woman unapologetically loving and living life on her own terms. A literary milestone about being true to oneself, this transformative work continues to resonate with readers even after forty years.

In this modern classic, Alice Walker depicts the lives of African American women in early 20th-century rural Georgia. The story follows Celie and Nettie, two sisters separated as girls who sustain their loyalty and hope in each other through a series of letters spanning 20 years. The Color Purple broke the silence around domestic and sexual abuse, narrating the lives of women through their pain and struggle, companionship and growth, resilience and bravery. With deep compassion and beautiful writing, this Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winner is a must-read journey towards redemption and love.

Discover a captivating Dickensian world in this thrilling novel of deception and secrets. Follow Sue Trinder, an orphan raised by a family of petty thieves, as she is approached by an elegant con man with a tempting proposal. If she helps him seduce and deceive a naïve gentlewoman named Maud Lilly, they will all share in her vast inheritance. But as Sue becomes more involved in the scheme, she begins to question if it's worth the price. Engage in a journey of twists and turns in Fingersmith.

This coming-of-age novel follows Cameron Post as she navigates survival in Miles City, Montana after the sudden death of her parents. Forced to move in with her conservative aunt and old-fashioned grandmother, she learns to blend in and keep her true self hidden. But when she meets the beautiful and unexpected Coley, Cam's world turns upside down. Aunt Ruth takes drastic measures to "fix" her niece, forcing Cam to confront the cost of denying her true identity. This stunning debut is a reminder to live life on your own terms.

A timeless classic of lesbian fiction, this book tells the story of Therese and Carol. Both women are struggling against the societal norms of mid-century femininity and find love in an unlikely encounter. The two take to the open road to escape their oppressive daily lives and enjoy a romantic adventure. However, their happiness is short-lived when Carol is forced to choose between her child and her lover. Written by Patricia Highsmith, known for her thrillers, this book showcases her ability to create compelling characters and narratives that depart from the stereotypical lesbian pulp fiction of the time. A must-read that explores the importance of following one's heart.

Experience love and confusion in its most wonderful and complicated forms in this heartwarming LGBTQ+ novel. Follow Liza Winthrop as she meets Annie Kenyon at the Met and watches their relationship blossom into something special. It's a tale of first love, and all the complexities it brings.

This book explores the coming-of-age story of Ijeoma during the civil war in Nigeria. She falls in love with another displaced child, who happens to be a girl from a different ethnic community. When their love is discovered, Ijeoma must hide her feelings and face the cost of living a lie. This inspiring tale by Chinelo Okparanta depicts how a nation's struggles manifest in its people's lives, with a beautiful and precise prose.

Follow the captivating journey of Nan King, a former oyster girl, as she falls for a cross-dressing music-hall singer, Miss Kitty Butler. Set in turn-of-the-century England, Nan becomes Kitty's dresser and secret lover, joins the act in pants herself, and learns about life, friendship, and love. Sarah Waters' debut novel is an erotic, vivid, and expertly written piece of historical fiction that casts a new light on the era. Explore the complex relationships and riveting adventures of Nan in this lush and tantalizing read.

A graphic memoir about a woman's complicated relationship with her father, who was a strict English teacher and director of the local funeral home. After coming out as a lesbian in college, the author discovered her father was also gay. Shortly after, he passed away, leaving her to unravel the mysteries of his life.

A story of zealousness and passion, a young girl seemingly destined for life as a missionary falls for one of her converts. At sixteen, she decides to leave behind everything she has ever known for the love of another woman. Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit takes readers on an innovative and tender journey into the bizarre outposts of religious excess and human obsession.