10 Best LGBTQ Romance Novels in 2022 (Jacob Tobia, Garth Greenwell, and More)

This tender first-person romance by Garth Greenwell takes place in Bulgaria. It's perfect for readers familiar with Shadows of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon. 

Cleanness depicts the saga of an American teacher living abroad coming to terms with the loss of love. The Victorian beauty and emotion-wrenching sentences make this novel a must-read.

Some readers had an issue with the level of pretension and graphic sex scenes. Others enjoyed witnessing the protagonist's internal struggle and journey into sexual explorations. Plus, readers found the protagonist relatable. Overall, themes of change and awakening are wonderfully intertwined in this romance novel.

You Should See Me in a Crown was written by self-described eternal Midwesterner Leah Johnson. Follow the high school adventures of Liz Lighty, a queer black girl navigating high school while discovering her own sexual identity. 

This quick read and upbeat YA novel is written in the first person for added suspense, and a lot of care has gone into writing each character as an individual. You won’t find any filler chapters in this passionately-written ode to coming-of-age and being unique. 

Now we don’t want to give away too much about this enlightening, feel-good novel, but readers call this book an emotional roller coaster with sweeping highs and lows. It’s been described as cute and intensely relatable even by those who don’t normally pick out YA fiction.     

However, some readers found the subject matter to be portrayed in a way that felt a little shallow. Readers also wanted an epilogue to help round out the ending. Overall, however, it’s an excellent read for those looking for a refreshing take on YA and what it means to be in love.

Written by Camille Perry, an editor for Cosmopolitan, this fast-paced novel is not afraid to jump between points of view when it serves the story. This novel excels at throwing you into the action. Gone are the days of pages and pages of prologue. Thanks to the pacing, When Katie Met Cassidy is the definition of a page-turner.

Jump in and join witty and relatably insecure Katie on her journey through the corporate world, heartbreak, and self-discovery. It’s a classic tale of opposites attracting but in a blunt, reflective manner that draws into question the standards imposed on women in the corporate legal world.

Some readers did call into questions the clichés it reinforces and its lack of focus on bisexuality. Overall the story is a quick and fun read for those who love character-driven stories and challenging themes.

For the most part, readers have hailed this novel as an oasis in a desert of queer fiction. The characters are three dimensional and inspiring. It’s also been applauded for its realistic depiction of coming out to parents and the way it handles the burgeoning relationship between Katie and Cassidy.

This insightful novel is as much romance as it is a memoir. It lets the readers come in close to one of the most heartwarming and heartbreaking stories you'll read this year. 

Sissy: A Coming-of-Gender Story revolves around Tobia's childhood, first love, and journey into self-actualization. It balances serious topics with a sense of humor that will leave you smiling. Plus, readers of any gender will be able to relate to Tobia's struggle with self-acceptance.

Some readers took issue with the memoir format of storytelling. However, most reviewers praise the novel's ability to cultivate and challenge the reader's perceptions of gender identity. Readers say this thought-provoking novel is a must-read for both LGBTQ people and allies alike!

This charming YA novel by Sophie Gonzales cements itself as a modern classic thanks to its fascinating characters, excellent writing, and fully developed story. 

Follow Ollie as he ends the best summer of his young life with his new crush, Will. But when things go awry and Ollie has to move across the country, what will become of the new couple? They end up meeting again unexpectedly, but Ollie is surprised at Will's personality at school.

Some readers called out the story for its similarities to the movie Grease. However, many thought that this spectacular novel shines thanks to its feel-good story and witty dialogue. Plus, reviewers loved Ollie and found him very relatable. 

This hilarious and sexy romance novel will keep you laughing and on the edge of your seat the entire ride. Step into the life of Luc O' Donnell, the son of a rockstar, who needs a seemingly normal relationship to satisfy his father, the press, and the public. 

Enter Oliver Blackwood. Together they start a fake relationship that has the potential for much, much more. While there's plenty of humor in this story, there's also a lot of real feelings and touching moments. 

There is distaste from some reviewers for the toxic relationship of the main characters, and some thought the pacing was slow.

However, many readers applauded the novel for its wit and internal monologues. It wastes no time on filler, and every character is well-rounded and engaging. If you love humor and smart writing, this novel will feel right at home. 

Something to Talk About gives a look into the lives of Jo, a Hollywood icon, and Emma, her assistant. They have a scandalous love affair and slowly discover their feelings for each other over the course of the story.

A few readers called into question the pacing and predictable outcome of the story. However, many readers enjoyed the slow build of their relationship. 

Overall this novel is great for readers who enjoy romance set against glitz, glamour, and high fashion. Readers praise the sweet characters and how the plot touches on current social issues. Plus, many reviewers said they couldn't put this book down!

This YA novel by Kacen Callender chronicles the story of Felix Love, a gay, black, trans kid on a journey to find love and come to terms with his complex identity. Humorously written and light-hearted, Felix Ever After lets the characters and communities speak for themselves.

Some readers didn't like the amount of profanity and felt that the middle of the story was slow. However, many readers loved Felix and found his story incredibly moving. 

The novel is written for those that can relate to having a marginalized identity and enjoy off-beat, funny writing. Plus, reviewers say that the book deals with serious topics without feeling overly heavy.   

The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali by Sabina Kahn is an exciting addition to any LGBTQ reading list. This romantic gem is full of wisdom, humor, and drama. 

Rukhsana Ali is in love with her girlfriend, Ariana, but Rukhsana's mother has no idea her daughter is a lesbian. Rukhsana doesn't know how to tell her mother or father about who she really is. 

Critical readers are quick to point out what they consider a lackluster ending and occasionally uneven pacing thorough the novel. 

However, many reviewers find the main character relatable and love the rawness of the story. The greatest parts of this romantic drama are the well-written characters, cultural insights, and stellar plot. 

Meet Max and Jordan, polar opposites growing up in the '80s. The two are at the start of adulthood and madly in love. However, they both have complicated home lives and haven't quite figured out how to go after what they want.

This deep, poetic novel is sure to draw you in. Although, some readers state they mistook the book for being YA and were shocked by the mature themes and situations. 

A majority of readers left rave reviews because of the emotional core of the novel that's sure to tug on your heartstrings. Readers felt like the characters were very genuine and appreciated the author's masterful writing.