Masterfully Crafted LGBTQ+ Historical Fiction Where Hearts Win

At the centre of this story about a matriarchal society beholden to the rule of men, is a friendship between two women: Maren and Ursa. These very different women form a quick and unexpected bond, becoming each other’s confidant and balm. Eventually that connection deepens into something romantic, putting both women in danger as they skate on the edge of what is considered acceptable in their society.

You may have seen the adaptation of this one, but the book is always better, so I suggest picking it up. This remarkable debut is one I still think about regularly even six years after reading.

It tells the story of Frannie Langton, called the Mulatta Murderess by the papers after she is arrested for the murder of her Master and Mistress. But Frannie protests that she is innocent, and she can’t have murdered them because she was in love with her mistress, Marguerite. Their love story is a sweet, sapphic tale set against a backdrop of homophobia, racism and classism. But how did it all end in murder?

In this spectacular novel A. J. West explores the scandalous underbelly of Georgian London’s molly houses, a sanctuary for gay men of the era.

The story follows the eponymous Thomas True, who has arrived in the city in search of a new life. He also harbours a dangerous secret that leads him to the houses with their vibrant and sassy characters.

Amongst these colourful characters we see love flourishing. However, a rat lurks in their midst, selling their secrets to the cruel Justices.  Despite the threat of death this brings for the mollies, the flames of true love and passion cannot be quenched.

A dual timeslip novel, one timeline tells the story of Dovie and Gillian, roommates living in an apartment on the Lower East Side. Behind closed doors they dance intimately, share loving embraces and passionate kisses knowing they must hide their love from a world that views it as unnatural. And although they are terrified of being discovered and losing everything, their love endures.

This is a beautiful and unforgettable debut that explores topics such as homophobia, racism, mental illness, and neglect alongside everyday issues faced by women of the time.

A witty, gossipy and glorious regency comedy of manners, this book follows Amelia, the eldest daughter of a wealthy family in the fictional county of Wickenshire in 1841. Amelia isn’t your average 19th century herione as she’s in a secret relationship with her friend, Clara.

Set against a backdrop of the society marriage season, Amelia tries to keep her secret safe while avoiding marriage prospects set up by her father. This one was so much fun to read and is perfect for fans of Bridgerton.

This story is a bit different from the others, as it isn’t a romantic relationship that helps the protagonist overcome hate, but the love of a friend.

The year is 1597 and criminal Mariner Elgin is trying to save her friend and partner in crime, Kit Skevy, who was kidnapped while they robbed a grave for their owner. Mariner isn’t like other women of her era; she doesn’t feel like a woman, is more comfortable in men’s clothes and is attracted to women. She faces prejudice and ridicule, but Kit is unwavering in his support of her, accepting Mariner for who she is when others want her to conform.