In a moment of self-care, I’ve abandoned my typical reading goals and TBR list to adopt a new approach. I’m calling it the ‘Read Whatever Feels Good Right Now’ method – highly recommendable! This means my current book choices are centered around comfort and joy, which I believe we could all use more of, especially during challenging times. For LGBTQ+ readers, finding books with happy endings can be particularly significant.
If you’re seeking feel-good recs with guaranteed HEAs, here’s a list of queer books that fit the bill.
Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
There’s a book that has left me beaming with joy, and Casey McQuiston’s Red, White and Royal Blue is that exceptional novel. Perhaps you were skeptical due to the widespread acclaim, but I’m here to assure you – it truly is as wonderful as the hype suggests. The story revolves around Alex Claremont-Diaz, the charismatic Presidential First Son, who is forced to put aside his differences with Prince Henry following a public relations debacle at the royal wedding.
As their unlikely friendship blossoms, readers are treated to a delightful exploration of feelings and emotions.
A Little Light Mischief by Cat Sebastian
This charming romance novella takes the cake for sheer sweetness. The story revolves around Molly, a street-smart lady’s maid who finds herself unexpectedly drawn to Alice, a young woman struggling to find her footing after being abandoned by her father and taken in by a benevolent benefactress. While Molly knows what she wants, Alice’s motivations are less clear, leaving the reader curious about their developing relationship.
A Prince on Paper by Alyssa Cole
I was thrilled to dive into a story featuring a bisexual prince grappling with anxiety – a character trifecta that resonated deeply with me! The fact that this aspect of the prince’s identity isn’t the sole focus of the book, but rather an integral part of his narrative, struck me as particularly noteworthy. Moreover, Alyssa Cole has consistently proven herself to be a master of crafting compelling royal romances, and her latest offering did not disappoint.
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
Tell Me How You Really Feel by Aminah Mae Safi
In the realm of romantic comedies, few tropes captivate audiences like the enemies-to-lovers narrative. Take, for instance, the unlikely pairing of Sana, a reserved film enthusiast, and Rachel, the charismatic cheerleader. Theirs is a tale of unrequited love that begins with rejection and culminates in an unforgettable cinematic experience.
The twist: Rachel had secretly harbored feelings for Sana from the start, but Sana misinterpreted her overture as a cruel prank, leading to years of animosity. When fate brings them together once more through a film project, the tension between them becomes palpable, and the sparks fly.
The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite
As Catherine St Day prepares for a peaceful existence, having secured her husband’s legacy, the arrival of Lucy Muchelney, a bright young astronomer, disrupts her plans. The latter’s enthusiasm to translate a groundbreaking French astronomy text takes Catherine by surprise, and she is further startled by the prospect of falling in love once more.
Amidst this unexpected development, the novel successfully navigates the challenges posed by historical homophobia and sexism, presenting a nuanced portrayal that neither shies away from these issues nor becomes mired in them. What’s more, it offers queer characters a satisfying happy ending, ultimately providing a refreshing respite from the societal norms of the time.
Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker
In the realm of supernatural romance, there exists a charming tale that warms the heart – a story of unlikely love blossoming between an endearing young witch and an enby werewolf. As they rekindle their childhood friendship, they find themselves entangled in a mission to thwart a mysterious attack on their hometown, weaving a narrative that is at once sweet, sentimental, and accessible to readers of all ages.
Blanca and Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore
In this reimagined tale, two sisters, Blanca and Roja, find themselves bound by an ancient curse that foretells one of them will transform into a swan in every generation. Determined to defy their fate, they embark on a journey to break the cycle, but doing so comes at a steep cost. The arrival of two lost boys in the woods sets off a chain reaction, intertwining their fates and setting the stage for a tale that’s as beautiful as it is queer and tender.
McLemore’s storytelling weaves together fairytale tropes with a unique flair, creating a narrative that’s both enchanting and thought-provoking.
Leah on the Offbeat by Becky Albertalli
Leah is a dynamic drummer, a witty confidante, and a bisexual individual still navigating her identity. Her best friend Simon is openly gay, which creates an interesting contrast with Leah’s own struggles. As they enter their final year of high school, Leah finds herself grappling with senior year angst, a major crush on a close friend she can’t seem to shake off, and the pressure to figure out how to be true to herself amidst the chaos.
With prom on the horizon and her friend group starting to fracture, Leah must confront her feelings and make tough choices if she wants to take a chance on love.
The Summer of Jordi Perez by Amy Spalding
As Abby navigates her summer internship at the trendy plus-size fashion boutique in Los Angeles, she finds herself entwined in a whirlwind of emotions. With two fellow interns vying for a coveted job spot, and the added complication of developing feelings for Jordi – her charming and talented colleague – Abby’s life becomes a tangled web of desire, self-doubt, and growth.
Amidst burger outings and fashion shoots, Abby must confront the blurred lines between reality and photography-perfected perfection. Will she seize this moment to shine and redefine her identity, or remain forever stuck in the shadows? The sizzling F/FF romance only adds fuel to the fire, as Abby struggles to reconcile her body-positive ideals with the harsh realities of the fashion world.
Once Ghosted, Twice Shy by Alyssa Cole
The mention of Alyssa Cole’s novella was always going to be a given in this rundown of cute queer books. Likotsi, the royal assistant at the center of the story, finds herself reunited with her former fling, sparking questions about whether they can rekindle their earlier connection after a rocky start.
Given the overall tone of this list, it’s no surprise that these two ultimately find their way back to each other – and indeed they do, in what is sure to be a heartwarming and satisfying conclusion.
Most Ardently by Susan Mesler-Evans
In a captivating modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice, two complex characters, Elisa Benitez and Darcy Fitzgerald, initially clash in a hate-filled encounter. The complexity of their lives makes it impossible for them to completely avoid each other, as Darcy’s best friend is involved with Elisa’s sister.
Despite this, the more time Elisa spends with the enigmatic heiress, her perception of Darcy and the world around her undergoes a significant transformation, mirroring the classic themes of pride and prejudice.
The Princess Affair by Nell Stark
As Kerry Donovan, a Rhodes Scholar, stepped onto Oxford’s hallowed grounds, she was determined to make the most of her time there – just as she had with every other opportunity that came her way. However, when her path crossed Princess Sasha, second in line to the British throne, at a nightclub, her meticulously planned life and all her assumptions about the partying princess were turned on their head.
The initial encounter sparked an undeniable chemistry between them, but as they navigated the whirlwind of emotions, the harsh glare of tabloid attention threatened to derail their budding connection.
Xeni by Rebekah Weatherspoon
When Xeni sought to claim her aunt’s inheritance, she unwittingly found herself tied to Mason McInroy – a man whose life had been forever changed by the passing of his mentor and friend, Sable Everly. Little did they know, their aunt’s last will and testament held an unexpected surprise: a predetermined marriage between Xeni and Mason. Initially, they chose to go along with the arrangement, but as the days passed, something unexpected happened – they found themselves falling deeply in love.
I’m a huge fan of fake relationship stories that blossom into real love, especially when combined with a bold bisexual love interest. It’s a winning combination that left me wanting more.
Romancing the Inventor by Gail Carriger
In a peculiar setup, Imogene Hale toils as a parlourmaid within a vampire hive’s confines. Though unconventional, it suits her needs. Her life takes an intriguing turn when she encounters Genevieve Lefoux, a ravishing French inventor imprisoned in the potting shed. However, Genevieve is resolute in rejecting any romantic advances. Can Imogene win over the lady before the vampires siphon away their love and existence? Or are they destined for heartbreak from the onset?
Knit One, Girl Two by Shira Glassman
In a charming tale of Jewish F/F romance, small-batch yarn dyer Clara finds herself stuck in a creative rut. Her search for the perfect new yarn color yields nothing but disappointment until she stumbles upon Danielle Solomon’s breathtaking paintings of Florida wildlife at a local gallery. The vibrant hues and textures inspire Clara to create her most stunning colors yet.
But as she delves deeper into Danielle’s art, Clara discovers that the artist is just as captivating as her work – a perfect blend of inspiration and romance.
The Love Interest by Cale Dietrich
In the world of espionage, it’s not just about gadgets and codes – it’s about using people’s emotions against them. For teenagers Caden and Dylan, this means learning the art of seduction to extract information from unsuspecting targets. But in a twist that upends their training, they’re pitted against each other as they vie for the affections of the same girl. As they navigate the real world for the first time, the stakes are higher than ever – whoever loses will pay the ultimate price.
Yet, as they taste freedom and autonomy, something unexpected happens: their carefully crafted personas begin to crumble, replaced by genuine feelings that defy their training. What unfolds when these two spies fall in love… with each other?
Only Mostly Devastated by Sophie Gonzales
Summer may have been a whirlwind of romance for Ollie, but it all came crashing down when Will Tavares suddenly disappeared from his life without so much as a goodbye. Little did he know that fate had other plans – a family emergency would see him and Will reunited at the same school, with one major difference: Will’s transformation from charming summer fling to class clown, closeted and with a bit of an attitude problem.
Ollie’s instincts scream at him to steer clear, but there’s no denying that Will’s constant presence – whether in music class or the cafeteria – makes it increasingly difficult to resist the temptation to rekindle their romance.
Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust (July 7, 2020, Flatiron Books)
Soraya’s journey is woven with intricate threads of Persian folklore, as the author masterfully crafts a queer narrative that delves into themes of power, agency, and the blurred lines between trust and deception. For Soraya, who has spent her life concealed within the palace walls, the concept of trust is multifaceted.
Her touch holds a deadly poison, yet secret excursions through the hidden passages of the palace and city with a new acquaintance spark doubts about everything she’s ever been told. The answers to these enigmas lie tantalizingly out of reach in the dungeons below, where a demon may hold the secrets of her curse. However, truth can be easily distorted, and Soraya’s choices have far-reaching consequences that reverberate beyond her wildest imagination.
This lush exploration of Persian mythology has quickly become one of my treasured reads, a truly unforgettable and lovely tale.
Here for It: Or, How to Save Your Soul in America; Essays by R. Eric Thomas
Running With Lions by Julian Winters
As senior year approaches, star goalie Sebastian Hughes is poised for success. He’s surrounded by great friends, a talented team, and a coach who fosters an inclusive environment where players can be their authentic selves. However, the arrival of his childhood best friend Emir during training camp sends shockwaves through the team’s dynamics. With Emir’s presence stirring up old feelings and new tensions, Sebastian must navigate the complex web of emotions and responsibilities as team captain.
As he grapples with reconnecting with Emir and balancing his own desires with the needs of the team, Sebastian faces a daunting task: reconciling his heart with his duty to lead.
Would You Rather?: A Memoir of Growing Up and Coming Out by Katie Heaney
In this poignant memoir, a journey of self-discovery unfolds as the author recounts her path from singledom to finally finding love. The story begins with her late-in-life realization that she’d been searching for companionship in all the wrong places. With candor and vulnerability, Heaney shares her experiences coming out in her 20s and navigating the unpredictable world of New York dating.
As she reflects on her journey, she reminds readers that it’s never too late to find one’s true self or discover a meaningful connection.
The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen
In this novel based on Lauren Shippen’s acclaimed podcast, The Bright Sessions, what if the X-Men took a break from saving the world and prioritized their mental health instead? Caleb, an Atypical with extraordinary abilities, is plagued by the emotional turmoil of those around him. His extreme empathy makes him acutely aware of every mood swing, rendering even ordinary teenage emotions overwhelming.
As his feelings become increasingly erratic, he finds himself inexplicably drawn to Adam, a classmate whose emotional landscape eerily mirrors his own. This intriguing premise sets the stage for an exploration of the complexities of human connection and the importance of acknowledging our emotions.
Who Is Vera Kelly? by Rosalie Knecht
In the 1960s, Vera Kelly’s impressive technical skills on the radio caught the attention of the CIA. What started as a means to make ends meet and blend in with the vibrant scene at Greenwich Village unexpectedly led her down a path of espionage. Her mission took her to Buenos Aires, where she found herself working as a spy amidst the turmoil that gripped the local government.
However, just as things were getting complicated, a betrayal left Vera stranded at a time when survival was far from certain. In the midst of war, unlikely alliances are forged – a harsh reality for a foreign spy like Vera who is simply trying to stay alive.
Nothing Is Okay by Rachel Wiley
Rachel Wiley’s poetry collection is a masterclass in emotional depth, traversing themes of queerness, fatness, race, and feminism with unflinching candor. Her words will alternately bring tears to your eyes and leave you chuckling with joy. At the same time, she offers a scathing critique of our society’s flaws and a triumphant celebration of individual identity, weaving together narratives that are both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Wow, No Thank You by Samantha Irby
Samantha Irby’s latest essay collection delves into the absurdities and realities of her life as a step-mom in a predominantly white Midwestern community. The humorous and accessible writings cover a range of topics, from hosting book club gatherings to her unexpected foray into Hollywood’s spotlight. With its signature blend of wit and relatability, Wow, No Thank You maintains the same lighthearted tone and engaging storytelling that fans of Irby’s previous work have come to expect.
The Never-Tilting World by Rin Chupeco
As the world teeters on the brink of collapse, an unlikely duo emerges to spearhead a global rebirth. Haidee, sheltered beneath the scorching desert sun, remains oblivious to her long-lost twin sister, Odessa, who lives in the frozen tundra of a distant city. Yet, as Odessa assumes her divine role alongside her formidable protector, Lan, their individual quests for truth and self-discovery gradually converge, ultimately entwining their paths in a quest to redeem their fractured planet.
Passing Strange by Ellen Klages
In this poignant novella, the lives of a group of queer women in San Francisco during World War II are intertwined. The narrative centers around Helen, a seasoned lawyer and former dancer, who is compelled to revisit her past after fulfilling a promise to sell her late friend Haskell’s final artwork. As she reflects on her youthful days, memories of posing for Haskell’s pulp drawings at Mona’s club come flooding back.
It was there that Emily, a drag king struggling through tough times, sought Haskell’s help and the two began to develop feelings for each other amidst the backdrop of fairs and hardship. What sets this historical fiction apart is its unflinching portrayal of the racism, sexism, and homophobia prevalent during that era, yet still manages to craft a captivating story about queer women embracing their true selves and finding love in the process.
Let’s Talk About Love by Claire Kann
As Alice settled into her perfect summer routine, complete with library work and TV show marathons, she made a deliberate decision to distance herself from her ex-girlfriend who had broken up with her after discovering her asexuality. The experience had left her wary of dating altogether, vowing to focus on personal growth instead.
Yet, when Takumi entered the picture at the library, Alice found herself experiencing the unmistakable flutter of romantic interest – the kind that makes you believe in love stories and knight-in-shining-armor scenarios. But as she teetered on the cusp of taking a chance on romance with Takumi, Alice couldn’t help but wonder if she was willing to risk their budding friendship for a relationship that might ultimately end in heartache, just like her last.
This is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone
The concept of losing the time war takes on a fascinating twist when two opposing agents from different bureaus fall for each other. Red and Blue, rival spies engaged in a cat-and-mouse game across the timeline, discover that their clandestine correspondence has implications far beyond their own mortality. As they navigate the precarious dance of deception and loyalty, they begin to realize that their forbidden love could be the key to rewriting the very fabric of reality itself.
To Be Taught, If Fortunate by Becky Chambers
As they venture into the unknown expanse of extrasolar planets, a team of intrepid researchers undergo a transformation that enables them to thrive in their extraordinary environment. Ariadne and her fellow crew members spend their downtime in cryosleep, allowing them to conserve energy between destinations.
Despite the unpredictable nature of Earth’s future during this prolonged period, the mission’s objective remains steadfast: to explore, document, and expand humanity’s understanding of the cosmos.