The 9 Best LGBTQ+ Mystery Books
Book RaiderGrab your favorite cup of tea, snuggle up with a warm blanket, and get ready to dive into the fascinating world of LGBTQ+ mystery novels. Beyond the world of classic who-done-it, you'll find these novels coloring outside the lines, serving up rich tapestry of characters steeped in underrepresented communities, and driving home hearty spoonfuls of suspense that will have you biting your nails.
In the ever-expanding literary universe, it's heartening to see our favorite genres bending and morphing to encompass the diversity of its audience. If you're hankering for a mind-boggling mystery draped in the colors of the rainbow, you're one lucky reader today. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a rainbow-tinted journey, showcasing some of the best LGBTQ+ mystery novels that will get your heart pounding and pages turning. Buckle up, hold on to your hats, and let's plunge into this riveting rabbit hole!
Suicide Watch
by Kelley York
Why Suicide Watch is on this list: Suicide Watch isn't your typical mystery book. It explores the multifaceted nature of identity and sexuality, wrapped up in a riveting mystery that keeps you on your toes. It gives a voice to the LGBTQ+ narrative within the realm of psychological mysteries, making it a must-read in our list.
The story revolves around Vincent, a young man struggling with his orientation in a world that doesn't fully accept him. His life takes a twisted turn when he stumbles across an online forum called 'Suicide Watch', where people finalise their life-ending decisions. The mystery begins to unfold as Vincent teams up with two members of the forum to save a troubled soul whose clock is ticking ominously.
What readers like: Readers have been pulled in by York's clear, honest style of writing. The rawness of the emotions and the authenticity of the characters add another layer of depth to the mystery. The blend of suspense and emotional exploration of LGBTQ+ themes reflects real-world struggles within a riveting narrative, making York's 'Suicide Watch' a standout read.
Check Price at Amazon
Trash
by Dorothy Allison
Why Trash is on this list: Although not your conventional mystery, 'Trash' intricately showcases the mystery of human existence and resilience, particularly in the LGBTQ+ context.
'Trash' is a powerful and raw collection of short stories where each narrative revolves around the life of a tough, hard-hitting, and unapologetically queer protagonist. It vividly portrays the battles and victories of the queer community, throwing light upon the grim realities that often cloud their world. Within the text, Dorothy Allison explores the mystery of love, loss, poverty, and survival, all within the LGBTQ+ realm.
What readers like: Readers appreciate this book for its brutal honesty and unfiltered depiction of the human spirit. It draws them in with its compelling characters, all uniquely diverse within the vast spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community. The stories are not just about struggles, but also empowering triumphs. It's a refreshing change from the typical whodunnit mysteries, offering a slice of life that's authentic, gritty and poignant.
Check Price at Amazon
Carved in Bone: A Henry Rios Novel
by Michael Nava
Why Carved in Bone: A Henry Rios Novel is on this list: This read stars Henry Rios, an LGBTQ+ protagonist, where he uses his wits to unravel some truly twisted mysteries. A masterpiece not just in the mystery genre but also as an LGBTQ+ literature piece.
Carved in Bone tugs us into the world of Henry Rios, a seasoned, gay criminal defense lawyer get tangled in a pretty gnarly mystery. When we say 'gnarly,' we mean it. Dead bodies, dark secrets, unforgivable lies, throw in some emotional upheavals too. This book is the rollercoaster nobody warned you about but you'd want to ride anyway.
What readers like: Readers love the in-depth exploration of the characters' identities, as well as the bone-rattling suspense. Nava’s writing is so sharp, it cuts through your usual mystery expectations like a hot knife through butter. The way he weaved LGBTQ+ elements with mystery keeps readers on their toes in the best way possible. And let's not forget the real, flawed but endearing spirit of Henry Rios that readers can't help but root for.
Check Price at Amazon
Dodging and Burning
by John Copenhaver
Why Dodging and Burning is on this list: Dodging and Burning masterfully intertwines LGBT characters, evolving relationships, and a juicy mystery to solve, all wrapped up in one enticing package that screams inclusivity. It’s like a Pride Parade in book form.
This book is set in 1945 rural Virginia. It revolves around an unsolved murder that brings together three young people - Bunny, an attractive diva with secrets; Jay, a gay recluse; and Ceola, a naive girl. The book is a gripping tale of love, lies, and, of course, a murder mystery that’s tougher to solve than finding a needle in a haystack.
What readers like: Readers rave about the rich setting, relatable characters and the completely unexpected plot twist. They enjoy the suspense and intrigue that clings to every page, making the book impossible to put down. Plus, they appreciate the clear and careful narrative on LGBTQ+ issues, proving you can mix mystery and inclusivity.
Check Price at Amazon
Congratulations, Who Are You Again?
by Harrison Scott Key
Why Congratulations, Who Are You Again? is on this list: This book dives right into the LGBTQ+ experience, ingeniously folding it into the mystery genre. It has a fluid narrating style that mirrors the fluidity experienced in gender and sexual identity, which is often puzzling to cis and heteronormative society.
The tale takes you through a comedic yet highly mesmerising journey about a man with a dream who also happens to be gay. The protagonist aspires to be famous, but as he gets there, he realises that it’s a journey filled with twists and turns. The catch here, though, is the sense of identity and navigating through the world as an LGBTQ+ individual while figuring out the essence of fame, among other things. Sort of a classic 'be careful what you wish for' lesson but with better outfits.
What readers like: Readers love the book's perfect blend of humor, mystery and self-discovery. They appreciate the light-hearted approach to serious topics, making it an easy read. Its appealing characters and realistic representation of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community offer a refreshing take on the mystery genre.
Check Price at Amazon
Fortune Favors The Dead
by Stephen Spotswood
Why Fortune Favors The Dead is on this list: This book is a must-read for those who have a soft spot for unconventional detective duos, as it brings to the table a fresh perspective through its queer protagonist in a classic 1940s detective genre.
Put on your detective hat and join our intrepid investigator Willowjean 'Will' Parker. A former circus knife-thrower turned private eye, Will partners with the hard-boiled detective Lillian Pentecost to unravel the mystery of a wealthy woman's death. To top it all off, there’s a sprinkle of queer romance that adds an extra layer of intrigue to the plot.
What readers like: Readers have absolutely fallen in love with the dynamic characters, the noir atmosphere, and the clever plot twists of this book. Many even liken it to a rollercoaster ride through a world of unforgettable personalities and surprising clues. If you're a sucker for 1940s vintage charm, snappy dialogue, and little flirts with the supernatural, then 'Fortune Favors The Dead' should be next on your read list.
Check Price at Amazon
A Matter of Blood
by Catherine Maiorisi
Why A Matter of Blood is on this list: Filled with suspense and layers of identity exploration, 'A Matter of Blood' fits perfectly into our list. It’s a top-notch LGBTQ+ mystery novel that blends thrilling detective work and a lesbian protagonist.
The story orbits around NYPD detective, Chiara Corelli. She's not only solving a harrowing cold case but also dealing with the aftereffects of the Iraq war and her personal journey as a woman who just happens to be gay. With blood, sweat and a lot of puzzle pieces, she navigates the gritty, danger-ridden labyrinth of New York City's crime scene. But as she starts peeling back the layers of intrigue, she finds that the rabbit hole goes deeper than she initially thought.
What readers like: Readers rave about the heady mix of relatable human emotions layered with a tantalisingly knotty plot line. They love the balance Maiorisi strikes between exploration of queer identity and good old fashioned crime-solving. And then there's Corelli - hard-nosed, yet endearingly human - who has charmed her way into readers' hearts. They can't get enough of her relentless pursuit of justice, both for the victims and herself.
Check Price at Amazon
White Rabbit
by Caleb Roehrig
Why White Rabbit is on this list: White Rabbit by Caleb Roehrig is a spine-chilling addition to our list because it brilliantly weaves together elements of LGBTQ+ literature and mystery. Our main character, Rufus, isn't just battling his confusing feelings for his ex-boyfriend but also racing against time to solve a thrilling whodunit.
As if getting a call from his half-sister, who he scarcely knew existed wasn't strange enough, Rufus also discovers she's just awoken next to a murdered boyfriend, clueless about what happened. As Rufus plunges into the unknown to clear her name, he's also confronted with his complex feelings for his ex-boyfriend Sebastian, who is his unexpected partner-in-crime-solving.
What readers like: Readers have fallen in love with how Roehrig uses suspense and teen angst to its full potential. They admire the fluid narrative style and relatable characters. Fans find themselves drawn to Rufus, whose explorations of his sexual identity - while dealing with murder no less - is quite engaging. Also, readers appreciate how the book not just tells a gripping mystery story, but also normalizes queer relationships.
Check Price at Amazon
Royal Street Reveillon
by Greg Herren
Why Royal Street Reveillon is on this list: Royal Street Reveillon is more than just an enthralling mystery, it's a visit into the heart of the LGBTQ+ community in New Orleans through the eyes of a smart and relatable gay protagonist.
Set in vibrant New Orleans, protagonist Chanse MacLeod is a gay sleuth with a knack for finding trouble. When an old family friend becomes the victim of an insidious blackmailer, the plot thickens involving theft, murder and more. Sullivan cranks up the heat of The Big Easy while the city preps for Hurricane Katrina. This is a stirring blend of mystery, thrill, and a deep respect for the LGBTQ+ culture.
What readers like: Readers love the gripping mysteries, the honest portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community, and the love letter to New Orleans that the pages subtly weave. They appreciate Herren's knack for building plot intrigue intermixed with hilarious banter, all the while making you feel like you are wandering down the humid, music-filled streets of pre-Katrina New Orleans. Plus, Chanse MacLeod is not your typical cookie-cutter detective, he's got personality in spades.
Check Price at Amazon
