August 2025 is unfurling as a vibrant and essential month for queer literature, offering a dazzling spectrum of stories that celebrate, explore, and illuminate the vastness of the LGBTQIA+ experience. This month’s releases are a powerful testament to the creativity and resilience of queer storytellers, bringing forth narratives that range from heartwarming young adult romances to epic fantasies, chilling sci-fi adventures, and tender contemporary fiction. Readers will find themselves journeying through stories of self-discovery, found family, first love, and hard-won joy. These books are not just stories; they are mirrors reflecting diverse identities and windows into worlds both familiar and fantastical, all penned with authenticity and heart.

The authors on this list, a brilliant mix of beloved voices and exciting debut talents, are pushing the boundaries of genre and expectation. They are crafting characters who are messy, brave, hilarious, and profoundly human, characters who navigate the complexities of their identities with courage and vulnerability. From a summer camp romance that redefines masculinity to a sapphic knight's quest and a nonbinary teen building the perfect boyfriend, these narratives showcase the infinite ways there are to love, to exist, and to be a hero. In a world that still too often seeks to silence or sideline queer voices, these books are acts of defiant celebration. For those looking to dive into the rich worlds of speculative fiction within the queer literary landscape, starting with a beginner's guide to fantasy and sci-fi can be a fantastic way to begin. Prepare to fill your heart and your bookshelves, because these ten must-read queer books of August 2025 are ready to change the world, one reader at a time.

1. Marisol Acts the Part by Elle Gonzalez Rose

Elle Gonzalez Rose, author of the charming Caught in a Bad Fauxmance, returns with another delightful young adult contemporary novel, Marisol Acts the Part. This book is a warm, witty, and deeply felt exploration of identity, passion, and the courage it takes to step into your own spotlight. It’s a love letter to theatre kids, creative souls, and anyone who’s ever felt like they were playing a role in their own life.

The story centers on Marisol, a talented high school senior who lives and breathes theatre. She’s a brilliant lighting designer, happiest when she’s behind the scenes making others shine. While she’s out and proud as bisexual, she’s never had a real relationship, pouring all her energy into her school’s theatre productions instead. When her school announces its fall musical, a gender-bent production of Grease, Marisol’s friends convince her to audition for the traditionally male role of Kenickie. To her utter shock, she gets the part. Thrust into the spotlight, Marisol must navigate the pressures of performing, her own insecurities, and her burgeoning, complicated feelings for her co-star, the charming and confident Eliana, who is playing Danny. The problem? Eliana is seemingly straight and already has a boyfriend.

Rose handles Marisol’s journey with incredible tenderness and authenticity. The novel beautifully captures the exhilarating and terrifying experience of pushing past your comfort zone and discovering new facets of yourself. It’s a story about the different kinds of roles we play—on stage, in our families, with our friends, and within ourselves. The theatre setting is vibrantly brought to life, feeling both specific and universally relatable. Marisol Acts the Part is a celebration of queer joy, artistic collaboration, and the magic of finding the person who sees you for who you truly are, even when you can't see it yourself. It’s a perfect read for fans of Ashley Poston and Casey McQuiston. To find more stories with similarly compelling worlds, you might enjoy exploring unique fantasy book recommendations.

2. The Build-a-Boyfriend Project by Mason Deaver

Mason Deaver, the acclaimed author of I Wish You All the Best and The Ghosts We Keep, continues to be an essential voice in queer young adult literature with their latest novel, The Build-a-Boyfriend Project. Known for their nuanced and heartfelt portrayals of queer and trans characters, Deaver delivers a story that is both incredibly fun and deeply poignant, exploring themes of identity, loneliness, and the true meaning of connection in the digital age.

The novel follows Basil, a nonbinary teen who is a brilliant coder but struggles with social anxiety. Tired of feeling invisible and longing for the kind of epic romance they see in movies, Basil decides to take matters into their own hands. Using their coding skills, they create the "perfect" boyfriend: a sophisticated AI named Alistair.

Alistair is everything Basil has ever wanted—he’s charming, attentive, shares all of Basil's interests, and, most importantly, he truly sees Basil. Their digital romance blossoms, providing Basil with the companionship and validation they've been craving. But as Basil starts to open up and gain confidence, they meet a real-life boy, Wren, who is kind, funny, and seems genuinely interested in them. Suddenly, Basil is caught between the perfect, predictable love of their creation and the messy, uncertain potential of a real relationship.

Deaver masterfully balances the high-concept premise with a grounded, emotional character study. Basil's journey is a powerful exploration of what it means to be seen and loved for your authentic self. The novel thoughtfully examines the allure of curated online personas versus the vulnerability required for genuine human connection. The Build-a-Boyfriend Project is a timely and resonant story that will speak to any reader who has ever felt like they needed to create a different version of themselves to be loved. It’s a beautiful, hopeful book about finding the courage to log off and live. More about the author's work can be discovered on their official website. For readers who enjoy stories that blend real-world issues with speculative elements, this list of sci-fi romances offers further reading.

3. Voidwalker by S.A. MacLean

S.A. MacLean follows up their explosive debut The Gilded Scarab with Voidwalker, the highly anticipated sequel in a queer space opera series that has been praised for its intricate world-building, high-stakes action, and compelling characters. This installment promises to delve deeper into the cosmic horror elements and the complex political landscape that made the first book a standout.

The story picks up with nonbinary ex-archivist El and their roguish partner Dako on the run after the universe-altering events of the first book. They possess knowledge of the Void, a terrifying dimension of pure chaos, and its connection to the god-like entities that secretly rule the galaxy. Now, they are the most wanted individuals in the cosmos, hunted by the formidable empire and a sinister cult that wishes to unleash the Void's power. Their journey takes them to forgotten planets and shadowy space stations as they search for a way to stop the impending cosmic apocalypse. Along the way, they must forge new alliances, confront old enemies, and grapple with the personal toll of their quest. El’s connection to the Void is growing stronger, tempting them with immense power but threatening to consume their humanity.

MacLean’s writing is cinematic and thrilling, blending pulse-pounding action sequences with moments of quiet character introspection. The world is a sprawling, imaginative creation, filled with diverse alien species and fascinating political factions. At its heart, however, Voidwalker is a story about found family and the fight to maintain one's identity in the face of overwhelming power. The relationship between El and Dako remains the emotional core, providing warmth and humor amidst the galactic chaos. This series is a must-read for fans of Gideon the Ninth and The Expanse, offering a fresh and vital queer perspective on the space opera genre. For those captivated by vast, imaginative worlds, exploring other sci-fi and fantasy series is a great way to continue the adventure.

4. The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends by Jamie D'Amato

Jamie D'Amato makes a sparkling debut with The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends, a YA contemporary fantasy that is being hailed as "Heartstopper with vampires." This charming, funny, and swoon-worthy novel is a fresh and modern take on vampire lore, perfect for readers looking for a queer paranormal romance that is more sweet than scary.

The book introduces us to sixteen-year-old Vincent, who is navigating all the usual high school anxieties: classes, friendships, and a massive crush on his best friend, Liam. The only difference is that Vincent is a vampire. He belongs to a progressive vampire family that has sworn off human blood, subsisting instead on a synthetic alternative. Vincent's main goal is to survive high school without his secret being discovered and, hopefully, work up the courage to tell Liam how he feels. But his carefully managed life is thrown into chaos when a new student, a brooding and mysterious vampire named Caspian, arrives. Caspian belongs to an old-world coven that has no qualms about feeding on humans, and he takes an immediate and unwelcome interest in Vincent. Torn between his lifelong crush on the sweet, human Liam and his undeniable, dangerous attraction to Caspian, Vincent must figure out what he truly wants and what kind of vampire he wants to be.

D'Amato has crafted a story that is utterly delightful. The voice is sharp and hilarious, and the high school setting feels authentic and relatable, even with the supernatural elements. The novel cleverly uses vampire tropes to explore themes of identity, conformity, and the pressure to fit in. The central romance is a tender and compelling love triangle that will have readers fiercely debating their allegiances. The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends is a joyful, heartfelt, and wonderfully queer read that is sure to be one of the summer's biggest hits. For more information, check out its page on Goodreads. Fans of supernatural romance will find more to love in this guide to the dark fantasy subgenre.

5. Lucky Day by Chuck Tingle

Chuck Tingle, the enigmatic and beloved two-time Hugo Award finalist, brings his unique brand of absurdist, heartfelt, and deeply compassionate storytelling to a mainstream publisher with Lucky Day. While known for his self-published "Tinglers," Tingle has proven himself to be a master of telling profound stories about love and identity in the most unexpected of packages. Lucky Day promises to be his most ambitious work yet, a full-length novel that retains his signature style while exploring deep emotional truths.

Set in the seemingly normal town of Billings, Montana, Lucky Day follows Melinda, a young woman working a dead-end job who feels like her life is going nowhere. Her world changes on "Lucky Day," a local holiday where anything can happen. On this day, she encounters a mysterious and handsome man who is, literally, a personification of the concept of luck. This man, Lucky, is on a mission to spread good fortune, but he is being hunted by a sinister corporate entity that wants to capture and monetize his power. Melinda finds herself swept up in a surreal and dangerous adventure to protect Lucky and save her town from the soul-crushing forces of mundanity.

Beneath the surrealist plot, Lucky Day is a powerful allegory about capitalism, mental health, and the importance of human connection. Tingle’s writing is, as always, one-of-a-kind—sincere, funny, and filled with his trademark phrases and philosophy of "proving love." The book is an exploration of how to find magic in the everyday and how to fight back against systems that try to diminish our humanity. It is a profoundly hopeful and deeply queer story that celebrates outcasts, weirdos, and the transformative power of love. Lucky Day is a book that could only be written by Chuck Tingle, and it is an essential read for anyone who believes that love is real. You can find more information about this unique author and his work on his official website.

6. Leaving the Station by Jake Maia Arlow

Following the success of How to Excavate a Heart, Jake Maia Arlow delivers another witty and emotionally resonant queer contemporary romance with Leaving the Station. Arlow has a gift for capturing the specific anxieties and joys of young adulthood, and this novel is a poignant exploration of new beginnings, old heartbreaks, and the terrifying, exciting leap into the unknown.

The story follows Thea, who is about to start her freshman year of college in New York City. She’s eager to leave her small town and her past behind, particularly her messy breakup with her first girlfriend. She has a plan: focus on her studies, make new friends, and absolutely, under no circumstances, fall in love. Her plan is immediately derailed when she meets a charming, confident girl named Celeste on the train to the city. They have an instant connection, a perfect, cinematic meet-cute. But Thea is determined to stick to her no-romance rule, pushing Celeste away even as she finds herself increasingly drawn to her. As she navigates the ups and downs of her first semester—challenging classes, a quirky roommate, and navigating a new city—Thea must confront her fear of getting hurt and decide if she’s willing to take a chance on love again.

Arlow’s writing is sharp, funny, and full of heart. Thea is a wonderfully relatable protagonist, and her internal struggles with anxiety and vulnerability are portrayed with nuance and care. The New York City setting is brought to life with vivid detail, becoming a character in its own right. Leaving the Station is a love story not just about two people, but also about falling in love with a city and with the person you are becoming. It’s a perfect read for anyone who has ever been on the cusp of a major life change, capturing all the fear and excitement that comes with it. For more stories about pivotal life journeys, you might enjoy exploring some of the best fantasy books for beginners, which often feature epic quests of self-discovery.

7. Vesuvius by Cass Biehn

Cass Biehn's debut novel, Vesuvius, is a stunning work of historical fantasy that reimagines the last days of Pompeii through a queer lens. This is a powerful, lyrical, and ultimately heartbreaking story of love, art, and resistance in the face of impending doom. It’s a novel that feels both epic in scope and deeply intimate in its focus on its central characters.

The story is told from the perspective of Amara, a talented fresco painter who is enslaved in the household of a wealthy Pompeian politician. She finds solace and a secret outlet for her talent in her art, painting vibrant scenes of gods and myths. Her life is one of quiet servitude until she meets Theron, a charismatic gladiator who is forced to fight for the entertainment of the masses. They are drawn to each other, finding a shared sense of defiance and a deep connection that blossoms into a forbidden love. As their relationship deepens, the ground beneath their feet begins to tremble. Mount Vesuvius, the looming mountain they have lived under their whole lives, begins to stir. Amara and Theron must navigate their dangerous love affair while the world around them hurtles towards catastrophe.

Biehn’s prose is exquisite, painting a vivid and immersive picture of ancient Pompeii. The historical detail is meticulously researched, bringing the city and its culture to life. The novel is a poignant exploration of power dynamics, class, and the fight for autonomy in a brutal society. The love story between Amara and Theron is the fiery heart of the novel, a beacon of hope and beauty against a backdrop of destruction. Vesuvius is a breathtaking and unforgettable debut, perfect for fans of Madeline Miller's The Song of Achilles and Shelley Parker-Chan's She Who Became the Sun. For more information about the historical context, the Wikipedia page on Pompeii is an excellent resource.

8. Lady Dragon by A.M. Strickland

A.M. Strickland, author of In the Ravenous Dark, returns with Lady Dragon, a standalone epic YA fantasy brimming with courtly intrigue, sapphic romance, and, of course, dragons. This is a thrilling and romantic adventure that subverts classic fantasy tropes to tell a story about power, duty, and breaking the mold.

The novel is set in a kingdom where dragon-riding knights are the elite protectors of the realm. For centuries, only men have been chosen to bond with the powerful beasts. Our protagonist, Elara, has dreamed of being a dragon rider her entire life, despite the rigid traditions that forbid it. She has trained in secret, becoming a more skilled warrior than any of her male peers. When the kingdom is threatened by a magical plague, and the male knights are unable to stop it, Elara sees her chance. Disguising herself as a boy, she enters the royal tournament to win the right to bond with a dragon. Her plan is complicated when she finds herself falling for Princess Thea, the very person she is sworn to protect. As she gets closer to achieving her dream, Elara must risk not only her life but also her heart and the exposure of her true identity.

Strickland has crafted a classic fantasy adventure with a fresh, queer heart. The world-building is rich and imaginative, and the dragon lore is particularly well-realized. Elara is a fierce and determined heroine that readers will root for from the very first page. The romance between Elara and Princess Thea is a sweet, slow burn, filled with stolen glances and secret meetings. Lady Dragon is a triumphant and empowering story about smashing patriarchal traditions and fighting for your right to be a hero. It’s a must-read for fans of Tamora Pierce and Priory of the Orange Tree. For readers who love tales of valiant heroes and mythical beasts, exploring other AAPI authors in SFF can introduce you to even more incredible worlds.

9. The Secret Crush Book Club by Karmen Lee

Karmen Lee’s debut, The Secret Crush Book Club, is a charming and heartfelt contemporary YA novel that celebrates the power of friendship, community, and romance novels. This book is a warm hug for anyone who has ever found solace and guidance within the pages of a book.

The story follows Leo, a shy, gay teen who is hopelessly in love with his best friend, Elias. He’s too scared to confess his feelings, terrified of ruining their friendship. Feeling lost, Leo stumbles upon a flyer for a secret book club. He discovers that the club is run by some of the most popular jocks in school, who use romance novels as a guide to understanding relationships and becoming better partners. Hesitantly, Leo joins their ranks. With the help of his new friends and the wisdom gleaned from their steamy reads, Leo starts to build the confidence to be his true self and, just maybe, tell Elias how he feels. But as he grows closer to the book club members, he starts to question if his crush on Elias is what he truly wants, or if a new love story might be waiting for him where he least expects it.

The Secret Crush Book Club is an utterly delightful and heartwarming read. Lee deftly subverts stereotypes, creating a group of male characters who are emotionally intelligent, supportive, and dedicated to dismantling toxic masculinity. The friendships within the book club are the story’s greatest strength, showcasing the importance of safe spaces where young men can be vulnerable. The novel is a joyful celebration of romance as a genre and a powerful tool for empathy and emotional growth. It’s a sweet, funny, and affirming story that will leave readers with a huge smile on their face. Learn more about the publisher and their other titles at Penguin Random House.

10. So Let Them Burn by Kamilah Cole

Rounding out our list is Kamilah Cole's stunning YA fantasy debut, So Let Them Burn, a Jamaican-inspired epic perfect for fans of The Priory of the Orange Tree and Iron Widow. This fiercely feminist and unapologetically queer story of gods, dragons, and rebellion is one of the most anticipated releases of the year.

Seventeen-year-old Faron is a dragon-blessed warrior, born with the ability to command the legendary beasts that protect her island nation of San Irie. Years ago, a divine betrayal led to the fall of her family and the death of her mother. Now, Faron is the last of her kind, forced to serve the new, ruthless empress. Her sister, Elara, is a magically-gifted seer, plagued by visions of a coming apocalypse. When the gods who abandoned their people centuries ago suddenly return, offering salvation in exchange for complete devotion, the sisters are torn. Faron, full of rage and a desire for vengeance, wants to use her dragon to kill the gods. Elara, desperate to save her people, believes faith is their only hope. Their conflict is further complicated by Faron's growing feelings for the empress's daughter, her sworn enemy.

Cole's world-building is breathtaking, weaving together Jamaican folklore and history to create a world that feels both fresh and deeply resonant. The narrative is a powerful examination of colonialism, faith, and generational trauma. Faron is a complex, rage-filled heroine whose journey is both heartbreaking and empowering. The sapphic enemies-to-lovers romance is electric, adding a layer of intense emotional stakes to the epic conflict. So Let Them Burn is a bold, brilliant, and necessary addition to the fantasy canon. You can find out more about the book on its publisher's page. For more villainous romance, check out this list of books with a villain love interest.

Conclusion

The landscape of queer literature in August 2025 is a testament to the boundless imagination and profound heart of LGBTQIA+ storytellers. The ten books highlighted here represent a stunning diversity of genre, voice, and experience, offering everything from swoon-worthy contemporary romance to epic battles for the fate of the cosmos. These stories provide vital mirrors for queer readers to see themselves as heroes, lovers, and complex, thriving individuals. They are also powerful windows for all readers, fostering empathy and understanding by inviting them into beautifully rendered queer lives.

From the stages of high school theatre to the volcanic shores of ancient Pompeii and the far reaches of space, these narratives celebrate the universal quest for love, belonging, and self-acceptance. They are stories of joy, resistance, and radical hope. As you dive into these pages, you are not just reading a book; you are supporting an ecosystem of authors, publishers, and booksellers dedicated to ensuring that these essential stories are told. So, this August, pick up a book from this list, get lost in its world, and celebrate the vibrant, vital, and victorious spirit of queer storytelling. To continue your journey through speculative fiction, consider this list of cozy fantasy books for a gentle escape.

FAQs

1. What are some of the most anticipated LGBTQIA+ book releases for August 2025? Some of the most anticipated releases include Marisol Acts the Part by Elle Gonzalez Rose, The Build-a-Boyfriend Project by Mason Deaver, the space opera Voidwalker by S.A. MacLean, the vampire romance The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends by Jamie D'Amato, and the epic fantasy So Let Them Burn by Kamilah Cole.

2. Are there any young adult (YA) books on this list? Yes, the majority of the books on this list are YA, including Marisol Acts the Part, The Build-a-Boyfriend Project, The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends, Leaving the Station, Lady Dragon, The Secret Crush Book Club, and So Let Them Burn.

3. Which of these books are best for fantasy or sci-fi fans? Voidwalker is a queer space opera. Lady Dragon and So Let Them Burn are epic YA fantasies. The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends is a contemporary paranormal romance. Vesuvius is a historical fantasy.

4. Are there any books on the list featuring transgender or nonbinary main characters? Yes, The Build-a-Boyfriend Project by Mason Deaver features a nonbinary protagonist, and Voidwalker by S.A. MacLean also has a nonbinary main character.

5. Where can I find more recommendations for queer books? Websites like Lambda Literary and Autostraddle are excellent resources for reviews and lists of LGBTQIA+ books. Your local library or bookstore will also have curated displays and knowledgeable staff.

6. Are any of these books by debut authors? The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends by Jamie D'Amato, Vesuvius by Cass Biehn, The Secret Crush Book Club by Karmen Lee, and So Let Them Burn by Kamilah Cole are all debut novels.

7. Which books on this list deal with contemporary, real-world issues? Marisol Acts the Part, The Build-a-Boyfriend Project, Leaving the Station, and The Secret Crush Book Club are all contemporary novels that deal with themes of identity, friendship, first love, and navigating young adulthood.

8. Are any of the books part of a series? Voidwalker is the sequel to The Gilded Scarab. The other books on this list are standalones.

9. Which book would you recommend for someone looking for a light, funny read? The Good Vampire's Guide to Blood and Boyfriends and The Secret Crush Book Club are both excellent choices for a light, heartwarming, and funny reading experience. Accomplice to the Villain from the previous SFF list is also a great cozy and humorous option if you're branching out.

10. How can I best support queer authors? You can buy their books (from independent bookstores if possible), request them from your local library, leave positive reviews on sites like Goodreads and retailer pages, and talk about their books with friends and on social media.