20 Lesbian Love Best Books to Read

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The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a captivating novel that delves into the glamorous and scandalous life of the iconic Hollywood star, Evelyn Hugo. As she reflects on her life and career, she reveals the truth behind her seven marriages and the secrets she has kept hidden for decades. This novel is not just a story of fame and fortune, but also a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the sacrifices one makes for success.

At its core, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a book about lesbian love, as Evelyn’s most significant and enduring relationship is with another woman. The novel beautifully portrays the complexities of their love in a time when such relationships were not widely accepted. It’s a story of passion, heartbreak, and resilience, and it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on anyone who reads it. Taylor Jenkins Reid has crafted a compelling and unforgettable tale that will linger in the hearts of readers long after the final page.

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Fingersmith

by Sarah Waters

Fingersmith by Sarah Waters is a captivating historical fiction novel that weaves a tale of deception, betrayal, and love. Set in Victorian England, the story follows the lives of two young women, Sue Trinder and Maud Lilly, as they navigate a world filled with secrets and hidden desires. The plot takes unexpected twists and turns as the characters’ lives become intertwined in a web of deceit and manipulation.

At its core, Fingersmith is a book about lesbian love, exploring the complexities of relationships and the societal constraints that seek to suppress the characters’ true desires. The novel delves into the themes of identity, power, and the struggle for autonomy, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Waters’ writing is rich and evocative, bringing the Victorian era to life with vivid descriptions and a keen eye for detail. The novel’s intricate plot and well-developed characters ensure that readers will be gripped from the first page to the last, making Fingersmith a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating story of love and betrayal.

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The Color Purple

by Alice Walker

The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a powerful and moving novel that tells the story of Celie, a young African American woman in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of race, gender, and love, and it is celebrated for its honest and unflinching portrayal of the struggles faced by African American women during this time period. The story follows Celie as she navigates through a life filled with abuse and oppression, but also finds strength and love through her relationships with other women. The novel delves into the complexities of female relationships, including those of romantic and platonic nature, and celebrates the resilience and power of women. The Color Purple has been widely praised for its lyrical prose and compelling characters, and it remains a classic work of literature that continues to resonate with readers today. It is a book about lesbian love that challenges societal norms and offers a poignant and unforgettable portrayal of the human spirit.

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Tipping the Velvet

by Sarah Waters

Tipping the Velvet by Sarah Waters is a captivating historical novel that delves into the world of LGBTQ+ love and relationships in Victorian England. This compelling book follows the journey of Nan King, a young woman who falls in love with a male impersonator and embarks on a passionate and tumultuous romance. As she navigates the complexities of her sexuality and societal expectations, Nan discovers her own strength and resilience.

Waters’ vivid and evocative prose brings to life the vibrant and seedy underbelly of London’s music halls and the struggles of individuals who dare to defy conventional norms. Through Nan’s experiences, the novel explores themes of identity, desire, and the pursuit of personal freedom.

Tipping the Velvet is a beautifully written and poignant book about lesbian love that captures the challenges and triumphs of individuals who dare to love boldly and authentically. This novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a powerful and immersive story that celebrates the resilience and beauty of LGBTQ+ relationships.

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The Price of Salt

by Patricia Highsmith

The Price of Salt, written by Patricia Highsmith, is a groundbreaking book about a love story between two women in the 1950s. The novel follows the passionate and forbidden romance between Therese, a young and aspiring set designer, and Carol, a sophisticated and alluring older woman going through a divorce. As they embark on a road trip across the United States, their relationship deepens, and they must navigate the challenges of societal expectations and personal desires.

Highsmith’s novel, originally published under a pseudonym due to its controversial subject matter, offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of love and the struggles faced by individuals in same-sex relationships during a time of pervasive intolerance. The Price of Salt is a captivating and evocative portrayal of the blossoming romance and the emotional turmoil experienced by the two women as they seek to discover their true selves and find happiness amidst societal pressures.

The Price of Salt is a compelling and timeless story of love, longing, and the quest for personal freedom, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a powerful and beautifully written book about lesbian love.

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Stone Butch Blues

by Leslie Feinberg

Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinberg is a powerful and moving novel that delves into the complexities of gender, identity, and love. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s and 70s, the story follows Jess Goldberg, a young butch lesbian, as she navigates the challenges of coming to terms with her identity in a society that is often hostile towards those who do not conform to traditional gender norms.

The novel explores Jess’s experiences with discrimination, violence, and the search for community and acceptance. At its core, Stone Butch Blues is a book about lesbian love, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of individuals who defy societal expectations in order to live and love authentically. Feinberg’s writing is raw and emotional, drawing readers into Jess’s world and allowing them to empathize with her journey towards self-acceptance and understanding. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of gender and the power of love to transcend societal barriers.

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Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit

by Jeanette Winterson

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit is a captivating book about lesbian love by Jeanette Winterson. The novel follows the life of a young girl, Jeanette, as she grows up in a strict religious household and grapples with her own sexuality. Set in a small English town, the story explores Jeanette’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance as she comes to terms with her attraction to women.

Winterson’s poignant prose and vivid storytelling bring to life the challenges and triumphs of coming to terms with one’s identity in the face of societal expectations and religious dogma. The novel delves into the complexities of lesbian love and the struggle for acceptance, offering a powerful and moving portrayal of the human experience.

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit is a groundbreaking and influential work that has resonated with readers around the world. Through its compelling narrative and deeply relatable characters, the book offers a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the power of embracing one’s true self.

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The Miseducation of Cameron Post

by Emily M. Danforth

The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth is a captivating coming-of-age novel that explores the complexities of adolescent identity and the struggles of self-acceptance. Set in the 1990s, the story follows Cameron Post, a young girl grappling with her sexuality in a conservative small town. After her parents die in a car accident, Cameron finds solace in her budding romantic feelings for a girl named Coley Taylor. However, when their relationship is discovered, Cameron is sent to a religious conversion therapy center to ‘cure’ her homosexuality. As she navigates the challenges of the center, Cameron begins to question and defy the beliefs imposed upon her, ultimately finding the strength to embrace her true self.

This powerful and poignant book on lesbian love delves into the emotional turmoil and resilience of LGBTQ+ youth, offering a compelling portrayal of identity, love, and the search for belonging. With vivid prose and heartfelt storytelling, Emily M. Danforth crafts a moving narrative that will resonate with readers of all backgrounds.

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The Well of Loneliness

by Radclyffe Hall

The Well of Loneliness by Radclyffe Hall is a groundbreaking book about lesbian love that was published in 1928. The novel follows the life of Stephen Gordon, a young girl who grows up to realize that she is a lesbian in a society that condemns her for her sexual orientation. As she navigates the challenges of being true to herself in a world that does not accept her, she experiences heartbreak, discrimination, and loneliness. The novel is a powerful exploration of lesbian love and the struggle for acceptance and understanding in a society that is intolerant of non-conventional relationships. Radclyffe Hall’s honest and poignant portrayal of Stephen’s journey resonates with readers and continues to be a significant work in the LGBTQ+ literary canon. The Well of Loneliness is a must-read for anyone interested in thought-provoking and emotionally charged literature that delves into the complexities of human relationships and identity.

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Rubyfruit Jungle

by Rita Mae Brown

Rubyfruit Jungle is a groundbreaking coming-of-age novel that delves into the exploration of lesbian love. Written by Rita Mae Brown, this book follows the journey of Molly Bolt, a feisty and determined young woman who discovers her own identity and sexuality in a world that challenges her at every turn. With wit, humor, and unapologetic honesty, Brown paints a vivid portrait of Molly’s experiences as she navigates her way through the complexities of love, relationships, and self-discovery.

Set against the backdrop of the American South, Rubyfruit Jungle is a poignant and empowering story that celebrates the resilience and triumph of the human spirit. It’s a captivating read that delves into the universal themes of acceptance, individuality, and the pursuit of happiness, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. Whether you’re seeking a book about lesbian love, a story of self-discovery, or a tale of defying societal norms, Rubyfruit Jungle is a must-read that will leave a lasting impression.

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Annie on My Mind

by Nancy Garden

Annie on My Mind is a groundbreaking book about two young girls who fall in love in a society that isn’t always accepting. The story follows the lives of Liza and Annie, who meet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and form a deep connection that soon blossoms into a romantic relationship. As they navigate their feelings for each other, they must also confront the challenges of being in a same-sex relationship in a world that isn’t always supportive.

Nancy Garden’s beautifully written novel explores themes of love, identity, and acceptance, making it a powerful and important read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ literature. The book provides an intimate and honest portrayal of the complexities of young love, and the struggles that come with realizing and accepting one’s true self. Annie on My Mind is a timeless and moving story that continues to resonate with readers, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and heartwarming book about lesbian love.

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The Summer We Got Free

by Mia McKenzie

The Summer We Got Free by Mia McKenzie is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of family, love, and liberation. Set against the backdrop of a close-knit community, the story follows the lives of the Butler family as they navigate the reemergence of buried secrets and long-held truths. At its core, this book is a poignant exploration of self-discovery, acceptance, and healing.

With lyrical prose and compelling characters, the novel delves into themes of forgiveness, identity, and the enduring power of love. The Summer We Got Free is not just a book about lesbian love, but a profound portrayal of the human experience, filled with moments of joy, heartache, and resilience. It’s a compelling narrative that will leave readers reflecting on the intricacies of relationships and the pursuit of freedom. This book on lesbian love is a must-read for anyone seeking a powerful and evocative story that lingers in the heart long after the final page.

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The Night Watch

by Sarah Waters

The Night Watch by Sarah Waters is a captivating and atmospheric novel that delves into the lives of several characters during and after World War II in London. This poignant and evocative story follows the lives of four individuals whose paths intersect in unexpected ways, exploring their secrets, desires, and struggles amidst the backdrop of war-torn England.

Waters’ beautiful prose and intricate storytelling bring to life the experiences of these characters, each grappling with their own personal challenges and relationships. The novel is a compelling exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human connection, with a particular focus on the dynamics of same-sex relationships during a time when such love was not openly accepted.

At its core, The Night Watch is a book about lesbian love, and it offers a powerful and moving portrayal of the joys and hardships that come with loving and being loved. With rich historical detail and deeply human characters, this lesbian love book is a must-read for anyone seeking a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant story.

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Valencia

by Michelle Tea

Valencia by Michelle Tea is a compelling and raw memoir that delves into the author’s experiences with romantic relationships, addiction, and self-discovery. This powerful book on lesbian love takes readers on a journey through the vibrant and gritty streets of San Francisco, where Tea explores her sexuality and grapples with the complexities of love and desire.

With unflinching honesty and poetic prose, Tea paints a vivid portrait of her relationships with various women, capturing the intoxicating highs and devastating lows of lesbian love. Through her evocative storytelling, she invites readers into her world, allowing them to witness the messy and beautiful complexities of queer relationships.

Valencia is a raw and unapologetic exploration of lesbian love, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into the author’s innermost thoughts and emotions. It is a book about lesbian love that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the exhilarating and tumultuous journey of falling in love, regardless of their sexual orientation.

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Hood

by Emma Donoghue

Hood by Emma Donoghue is a captivating and poignant book that explores the complexities of love and relationships. Set in the 1990s, this novel follows the lives of two women who unexpectedly find themselves drawn to each other in a small Irish town. The story delves into the challenges and triumphs of their relationship, shedding light on the intricacies of love and desire.

Donoghue’s masterful storytelling and rich character development make Hood a compelling read that will resonate with readers. The novel navigates the themes of self-discovery, societal expectations, and the power of love in the face of adversity. With lyrical prose and vivid imagery, Donoghue paints a vivid portrait of the emotional and physical landscapes of her characters’ lives.

With its deeply moving portrayal of a forbidden love, Hood is a must-read for anyone seeking a beautifully written and thought-provoking book about same-sex relationships. Donoghue’s exploration of the complexities of lesbian love will leave a lasting impression on readers, making this novel an unforgettable and impactful read.

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The Price of Salt (Carol)

by Patricia Highsmith

The Price of Salt, written by Patricia Highsmith, is a groundbreaking book about lesbian love. Set in New York City during the 1950s, the novel follows the story of Therese Belivet, a young aspiring set designer, and Carol Aird, an elegant and alluring woman going through a divorce. What starts as a chance encounter between the two women soon develops into a passionate and forbidden romance.

Highsmith’s writing beautifully captures the intense emotions and societal pressures that come with love between women during a time when society was less accepting of same-sex relationships. The novel is a poignant exploration of desire, identity, and the complexities of love.

The Price of Salt was a groundbreaking work for its time, as it was one of the first novels to depict a same-sex relationship in a positive light, offering a refreshing and honest portrayal of lesbian love. This timeless and evocative story continues to resonate with readers, making it a must-read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ literature.

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The Paying Guests

by Sarah Waters

The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters is a compelling historical fiction novel set in 1920s London. This book delves into the lives of Frances and her mother, who are forced to take in lodgers, the “paying guests,” in order to make ends meet after the devastation of World War I. As the story unfolds, Frances becomes entangled in a passionate and forbidden romance with one of the paying guests. The novel explores themes of desire, betrayal, and societal expectations, all set against the backdrop of post-war England.

The Paying Guests is a captivating and sensuous book on lesbian love that will draw readers in with its richly detailed historical setting and complex characters. Sarah Waters’ masterful storytelling weaves a gripping narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. This book about lesbian love is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a focus on the complexities of human relationships.

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The Gravity Between Us

by Kristen Zimmer

The Gravity Between Us is a captivating book about lesbian love, written by Kristen Zimmer. The story follows the lives of childhood friends, Kendall and Payton, as they navigate the complexities of their relationship and the challenges of fame and love. As they grow older, their deep connection evolves into a passionate romance that defies societal norms and expectations.

The novel delves into themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the intense pull of love between two women. Zimmer’s writing beautifully captures the emotional rollercoaster of first love, heartbreak, and the enduring bond that transcends time and distance. The Gravity Between Us is a heartfelt and empowering exploration of the power of love and the courage it takes to embrace one’s true self.

If you’re looking for a moving and compelling story about the complexities of love and the strength of the human spirit, this lesbian love book is a must-read. Zimmer’s storytelling will captivate you from the very first page, leaving you emotionally invested in the characters’ journey.

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The Color of Love

by Radclyffe

The Color of Love by Radclyffe is a captivating book on lesbian love that delves into the complexities of relationships and the power of unexpected connections. Set in the vibrant backdrop of New York City, this novel follows the lives of two women, Camryn and Shannon, as they navigate through the challenges of love, loss, and self-discovery. As their paths intertwine, they are forced to confront their own fears and insecurities, ultimately leading them to confront their true feelings for each other. Radclyffe beautifully captures the intricacies of human emotions and the undeniable force of love, making this a compelling book about lesbian love that will tug at your heartstrings. With its rich character development and emotionally charged storyline, The Color of Love is a must-read for anyone seeking a powerful and evocative portrayal of lesbian love.

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The Lesbian Sex Haiku Book (with Cats!)

by Anna Pulley

The Lesbian Sex Haiku Book (with Cats!) by Anna Pulley is a delightful and steamy collection of haikus that celebrates the beauty, intimacy, and humor of lesbian love. This charming book combines the art of haiku poetry with the adorableness of cats to create a unique and entertaining exploration of love, desire, and connection. Each haiku captures a moment of passion, longing, or playfulness, accompanied by whimsical illustrations of cats that add an extra layer of charm to the book.

With a perfect balance of wit and sensuality, The Lesbian Sex Haiku Book (with Cats!) is a celebration of queer love and desire that will make you smile, swoon, and maybe even blush a little. Whether you’re a poetry enthusiast, a cat lover, or simply a fan of love in all its forms, this book is sure to delight and captivate you with its playful and intimate take on the joys of lesbian love.