“10 Inspiring LGBTQ+ YA Fantasy Novels to Empower Teens to Live Authentically
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In the ever-evolving landscape of literature, LGBTQ+ young adult fantasy novels stand out for their ability to transport readers into magical realms while also offering profound insights into real-world challenges. Author Brittany Johnson beautifully articulates how fantasy narratives can serve as a beacon of hope in a world often plagued by darkness and uncertainty. Through her poignant words, she emphasises the unique power of queer stories to not only provide an escape but also equip young readers with the tools they need to navigate their own realities with strength and resilience.
1. **Fantasy as Love: ‘Deadly Ever After’ by Brittany Johnson**
In ‘Deadly Ever After,’ two deceased princesses embark on a quest for true love’s kiss, with the stakes incredibly high – the right kiss grants them a new life, while the wrong one seals their fate. Through this enchanting tale, Johnson highlights the transformative power of love and the universal desire for a ‘happily ever after.’ This narrative serves as a touching homage to underrepresented soft Black girls in media.
2. **Fantasy as Trust: ‘Brewed with Love’ by Shelly Paige**
‘Brewed with Love’ explores the themes of friendship, trust, and forgiveness in a magical setting. As protagonist Sage Bishop endeavors to save her family’s apothecary, she must grapple with her conflicted relationship with her ex-best friend and crush. Paige crafts a sapphic romantasy that delves into the complexities of human emotions and the courage it takes to trust again.
3. **Fantasy as Family: ‘So This is Ever After’ by F.T. Lukens**
In ‘So This is Ever After,’ Lukens presents a humorous and heartwarming narrative that follows a chosen hero navigating post-prophecy life. Despite having saved the kingdom, the protagonist faces an unexpected obstacle – marriage. Through this whimsical tale, Lukens explores the bonds of found family and the humorous nuances of life after the traditional fairytale ending.
4. **Fantasy as Legacy: ‘This Poison Heart’ by Kalynn Bayron**
Kalynn Bayron weaves a gripping tale in ‘This Poison Heart,’ where the protagonist, Briseis, delves into her family’s mysterious legacy. As she uncovers dark secrets within her inherited estate, Bayron masterfully blends elements of fantasy and suspense, painting a vivid picture of a young woman grappling with her extraordinary abilities and the sinister forces at play.
5. **Fantasy as Sacrifice: ‘To a Darker Shore’ by Leanne Schwartz**
In ‘To a Darker Shore,’ Leanne Schwartz explores the depths of sacrifice and loyalty through the journey of Alesta, a determined protagonist willing to brave Hell itself for her friend. The narrative delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and the lengths one would go to for those they love, offering a compelling exploration of inner strength and determination.
6. **Fantasy as Strength: ‘These Vengeful Gods’ by Gabe Cole Novoa**
Gabe Cole Novoa introduces readers to Crow, a descendant of the god of Death, in ‘These Vengeful Gods.’ As Crow navigates a high-stakes competition against deities, they embody a spirit of defiance and agency, challenging the very beings that have oppressed them. Novoa’s narrative celebrates the power of reclaiming one’s identity and seizing what is rightfully theirs.
7. **Fantasy as Justice: ‘Pet’ by Akwaeke Emezi**
In ‘Pet,’ Akwaeke Emezi crafts a haunting tale that follows protagonist Jam on a quest to confront the darkness lurking within her home. Through themes of truth, friendship, and courage, Emezi explores the complexities of existence and the fight against unseen malevolence. This narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the strength found in acknowledging one’s reality and standing up to hidden monsters.
8. **Fantasy as Resilience: ‘The Taking of Jake Livingston’ by Ryan Douglass**
Ryan Douglass delves into themes of trauma, resilience, and community in ‘The Taking of Jake Livingston.’ Through the eyes of a haunted medium, Douglass navigates the challenges of survival amid supernatural threats and personal turmoil. The narrative showcases the power of resilience and interconnectedness in the face of adversity, offering a message of hope and solidarity for queer teens.
9. **Fantasy as Reclamation: ‘We Mostly Come Out at Night’ by Rob Costello**
‘We Mostly Come Out at Night’ by Rob Costello is an anthology of queer stories that subvert traditional tropes, offering diverse perspectives and identities from LGBTQ+ authors. Through transformative and at times eerie narratives, Costello invites readers to embrace their uniqueness and reclaim their narratives, celebrating the beauty of being true to oneself.
10. **Fantasy as Compassion: ‘The Fox Maidens’ by Robin Ha**
Robin Ha’s ‘The Fox Maidens’ follows Kai, a protagonist who defies societal expectations in pursuit of freedom and self-discovery. As she unravels her mother’s enigmatic past, Kai learns valuable lessons in compassion, empathy, and love amidst adversity. Ha’s narrative explores the power of empathy and understanding in forging one’s path, resonating with readers through its poignant message of acceptance and resilience.
These LGBTQ+ YA fantasy novels stand as testimony to the transformative power of storytelling, offering readers a glimpse into worlds where love, courage, and resilience reign supreme. As these diverse narratives illuminate the experiences of queer protagonists, they inspire readers to embrace their identities, stand tall in their truths, and navigate life’s complexities with hope and authenticity.”