Summer is here, and it’s time to load up on some fantastic queer books that will make your beach days, poolside lounging, and park picnics even better. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or hiding in the shade, there’s nothing like diving into a story that celebrates queer joy, love, and adventure. From swoon-worthy romances to thrilling adventures, we’ve got something for everyone. Let’s dive into this list of queer books that are perfect for making your summer days even brighter and your nights a bit more magical.
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Queer Books to Read in the Summer
To make it easy to find your next favorite read, we’ve divided our list into three sections: sapphic summer books, gay summer books, and trans/non-binary summer books. Packed with diverse and exciting reads that celebrate the full spectrum of queer experiences.
Table of Contents
Sapphic Summer Books
She’s the Girl by Rachael Lippincott and Alyson Derrick
In She’s the Girl, Alex and Molly are polar opposites. Alex is a flirt who knows how to get the girl but can’t keep her, while Molly is awkward and crushing hard on someone she hasn’t even spoken to. When their paths cross, Alex decides to help Molly win her crush, hoping to prove she’s ready for commitment. But as their plan unfolds, they might just realize they’re falling for each other instead. It’s a fun, flirty ride you won’t want to miss.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our She’s the Girl by Rachel Lippincott and Alyson Derrick book review
Cleat Cute by Meryl Wilsner
Cleat Cute is a delightful romp on the soccer field. Grace, a seasoned player, and Phoebe, a bold newcomer, clash as rivals but can’t deny their chemistry. When Grace makes the first move, their “teammates with benefits” arrangement gets hilariously complicated. As they gear up for the World Cup, they must figure out what’s more important: the roster or their budding romance. Full of humor and heart, this story is perfect for anyone who loves a good sports romance.
And if you’re in the mood for soccer, then check out even more soccer romance book recommendations.
That Summer Feeling by Bridget Morrissey
That Summer Feeling takes us to an adult sleepaway camp where Garland Moore, fresh from a divorce, seeks a new start. She expects to rekindle old flames but instead finds herself drawn to Stevie, her ex’s sister. Amid camp activities and moonlit dances, Garland’s heart learns to love again. This charming tale of unexpected romance and self-discovery is sure to warm your heart and bring back those summer camp vibes.
Outdrawn by Deanna Grey
Outdrawn is a slow-burn, rivals-to-lovers sapphic romance set in the world of comics. Noah and Sage are top-tier artists forced to collaborate on a major project. Their competitive tension is off the charts, but so is their undeniable chemistry. As they work together, sparks fly, and they realize drawing isn’t the only thing they’re good at. If you’re into creative duos and slow-burn tension, this one’s for you.
It Started with a Kiss by Clare Lydon
It Started with a Kiss by Clare Lydon is a fun, slow-burn romance set in a sunny UK vineyard. When Skye and Gemma share a sizzling kiss at a bar, they think they’ll never see each other again. Days later, Skye walks into Gemma’s vineyard, and they both struggle to keep things professional. With simmering tension and plenty of laughs, this book is perfect for anyone who loves a feel-good romantic comedy.
Lost in Paradise by Rachel Lacey
Lost in Paradise by Rachel Lacey is a thrilling romance set on a deserted island. Nicole, a businesswoman, and Fiona, a reclusive artist, are stranded together after their cruise ship is hijacked. Sparks fly as they navigate survival and their growing attraction. This story combines adventure and romance, making it a perfect summer read for those who love opposites-attract stories with a twist.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Lost in Paradise by Rachel Lacey book review
Gay Summer Books
The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochran
The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun is a witty, heartwarming romance. Dev, a reality dating show producer, always scripts the perfect love stories, but his own love life is a mess. Enter Charlie, a tech genius turned reality show star who doesn’t believe in love. As Dev helps Charlie connect with contestants, they find they have the best chemistry with each other. This off-script love story is perfect for fans of Red, White & Royal Blue.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochran book review
Finding Joy by Adriana Herrera
Finding Joy by Adriana Herrera is a heartfelt romance set in Ethiopia. Desta, dealing with his past and looking for closure, meets Elias, a local with big dreams. As they explore Addis Ababa together, their connection grows. Desta finds peace and a new perspective through Elias’s eyes. This beautiful story of love and self-discovery is perfect for those who enjoy romance with depth and cultural richness.
Damaged Like Us by Krista & Becca Ritchie
Damaged Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie is a steamy bodyguard romance. Maximoff Hale, a billionaire with a chaotic life, gets a new 24/7 bodyguard, Farrow Keene. Farrow is tattooed, MMA-trained, and fills 1/3 of Maximoff’s fantasies. Flirting is off-limits, but sparks fly anyway. As boundaries blur, their relationship becomes more complicated and risky. This first book in the Like Us series is a hot, intense read.
Running with Lions by Julian Winters
Running with Lions by Julian Winters is a charming sports romance. Star goalie Sebastian Hughes is ready for senior year, but when his estranged friend Emir shows up at summer camp, things get complicated. Determined to reconnect for the team’s sake, Sebastian finds himself developing more than just friendship feelings. With sweaty soccer practices and bonding sessions, this book is perfect for fans of heartfelt, queer romances.
Fresh Catch by Kate Canterbary
Fresh Catch by Kate Canterbary is a delightful opposites-attract romance. Silicon Valley escapee Cole McClish finds himself in Talbott’s Cove, falling for anti-social lobsterman Owen Bartlett. Owen prefers solitude, but Cole’s arrival shakes things up. With no small talk or strings attached, their connection grows deeper. This fun, sexy tale of a techie and a lobsterman is perfect for a light, engaging read.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Fresh Catch by Kate Canterbary book review
Beyond the Sea by Keira Andrews
Beyond the Sea by Keira Andrews is a captivating stranded-on-an-island romance. Pop star Troy Tanner’s plane crashes, leaving him and pilot Brian stranded on a tropical island. As they struggle to survive, their bond grows from friendship to something more. With tropical sun, danger, and a slow-burn bisexual awakening, this book delivers a scorching, emotional journey.
If You Change Your Mind by Robby Weber
If You Change Your Mind by Robby Weber is a hilarious and heartfelt story about Harry, an aspiring screenwriter determined to avoid romantic distractions this summer. But when his first love, Grant, returns with a secret, and new guy Logan sweeps in with charm, Harry’s plans go awry. This charming read is perfect for anyone who knows that sometimes love has its own script.
Summer Lessons by Amy Lane
Summer Lessons by Amy Lane is a heartwarming tale from the Winter Ball series. Mason Hayes, with a history of dating disasters, finds unexpected chemistry with Terry Jefferson, his friend’s hot soccer teammate. As they navigate their complicated lives, Mason learns that patience and love go hand-in-hand. This story is perfect for those who enjoy a slow-burn romance with deep emotional connections.
Trans /Non-Binary Summer Books
Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly
Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly is a delightful, steamy rom-com. Dahlia Woodson and London Parker, contestants on a cooking show, are there to win. But sparks fly, and they soon find themselves in a whirlwind romance. With hilarious kitchen mishaps and heartfelt moments, this book is a fun mix of humor and love. As the competition heats up, so does their relationship, making this a delicious read.
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender is a powerful, heartfelt YA novel. Felix Love, a Black, queer, and transgender teen, is on a journey of self-discovery and love. When he faces transphobic harassment, he plans revenge but ends up in a love triangle instead. This story beautifully explores identity, first love, and self-acceptance. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a deeply emotional and inspiring story.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender book review
Cafe con Lychee by Emery Lee
Café Con Lychee by Emery Lee is a sweet and zesty rom-com. Theo and Gabi are rivals with clashing family businesses and a history of butting heads. But when a new café threatens both their shops, they team up to save their dreams. As they cook up an underground snack operation, their simmering tension turns into unexpected feelings. This delightful story of love, food, and unexpected alliances is a must-read for fans of charming romances.
Meet Cute Diary by Emery Lee
Meet Cute Diary by Emery Lee is a swoon-worthy rom-com about Noah, a trans teen who runs a blog full of fictional trans happily ever afters. When his blog is exposed as fake, Noah’s only hope is to stage a fake romance with Drew, a boy he just met. But as real feelings develop, Noah learns that real-life romance is messier and more wonderful than fiction. This heartfelt story is perfect for anyone who loves tales of first love and self-discovery.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Meet Cute Diary by Emery Lee book review
The Summer of Jordi Perez by Amy Spalding
The Summer of Jordi Perez by Amy Spalding is a fun, fashion-filled summer romance. Abby, a plus-size fashion blogger, lands her dream internship at her favorite boutique and falls for her fellow intern, Jordi. But competing for the same job complicates things. Between helping a bro-type friend find the best burger in LA and dealing with her health-nut mom, Abby’s summer is anything but boring. This charming story about love, friendship, and finding yourself is a delightful read for anyone who loves a good rom-com.
Everything Leads to You by Nina LaCour
Everything Leads to You by Nina LaCour is a captivating summer romance set in Los Angeles. Emi, a young production designer, is tasked with making something great happen in her brother’s apartment. When she and her best friend find a mysterious letter at a Hollywood estate sale, Emi’s world turns upside down. As she uncovers a hidden secret, she also finds the potential for epic love. This charming story combines mystery, romance, and the magic of Hollywood.
And there you have it—20 amazing queer books to add to your summer reading list! Whether you’re lounging by the pool, chilling at the beach, or just looking for a cozy spot to dive into a great story, these books are sure to keep you entertained all summer long.
Got a favorite queer book that we missed? Share it with us in the comments! We’d love to hear your recommendations and add more fantastic reads to our list.
Read More
- 2024 Queer Summer Book Releases
- Read all our Summer book reviews
- And even more book recommendations for summer reads
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