Urban fantasy novels offer a captivating blend of magic, mystery, and modern life. When these stories include LGBTQ+ representation, they provide diverse and inclusive narratives that resonate with a broad audience. Here are some of the best urban fantasy novels featuring strong LGBTQ+ representation.
1. The Tarot Sequence by K.D. Edwards
The Tarot Sequence series by K.D. Edwards, starting with The Last Sun, is a standout in urban fantasy. It follows Rune Saint John, the last scion of a fallen noble house, and his bodyguard, Brand. The series features a richly developed world and central characters who navigate their complex relationship and sexuality with depth and nuance.
2. The Wicked + The Divine by Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie
This graphic novel series combines urban fantasy with mythological elements. Every ninety years, twelve gods reincarnate as humans, only to die within two years. The series includes diverse LGBTQ+ characters, offering complex and varied representations of sexuality and gender identity within its richly imagined world.
3. The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gomez
The Gilda Stories is a classic urban fantasy novel that spans centuries. It follows Gilda, a Black lesbian vampire, from her escape from slavery in the 1850s to the 21st century. The novel explores themes of love, identity, and community, providing a powerful narrative with strong LGBTQ+ representation.
4. All the Birds in the Sky by Charlie Jane Anders
This novel blends urban fantasy with science fiction. It follows Patricia, a witch, and Laurence, a tech genius, as they navigate their intertwined destinies. The story features LGBTQ+ characters and explores themes of love and identity in a world teetering on the brink of disaster.
5. Magic for Liars by Sarah Gailey
In Magic for Liars, private investigator Ivy Gamble is hired to solve a murder at a magic school where her estranged twin sister teaches. The novel includes LGBTQ+ characters and delves into themes of family, identity, and the cost of secrets in a magical setting.
6. The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
This heartwarming novel features a government caseworker, Linus Baker, who inspects magical orphanages. He meets Arthur Parnassus, the headmaster of a unique orphanage, and they develop a romantic relationship. The book offers a beautiful portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters and themes of acceptance and love.
7. An Unkindness of Ghosts by Rivers Solomon
While more science fiction than pure urban fantasy, An Unkindness of Ghosts deserves mention for its rich world-building and complex characters. The story follows Aster, a queer, neurodivergent protagonist, aboard a generation ship. The novel explores themes of oppression, identity, and resilience.
8. Dreadnought by April Daniels
Dreadnought is an urban fantasy novel that follows Danny Tozer, a transgender teen who inherits the powers of a superhero. As Danny navigates her new identity and powers, the story explores themes of gender, identity, and acceptance in a compelling and action-packed narrative.
9. The Immortal Coil by Eliot Grayson
In The Immortal Coil, a sorcerer named Ezra and a vampire named John must work together to solve a series of magical murders. Their partnership evolves into a romantic relationship, and the novel offers a captivating blend of mystery, magic, and LGBTQ+ romance.
10. Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
This novel, the first in the Wayward Children series, is set in a boarding school for children who have returned from magical worlds. It features a diverse cast of characters, including Kade, a trans boy, and Sumi, a queer girl. The series explores themes of identity, belonging, and the impact of fantastical experiences on real life.
Conclusion
Urban fantasy novels with LGBTQ+ representation provide readers with diverse and inclusive stories that reflect a wide range of experiences and identities. These novels blend magic and reality, offering rich narratives that resonate with readers seeking both adventure and representation.
