Best LGBT Science Fiction Books of 2026

Harrow the Ninth, the second book in The Locked Tomb Series by Tamsyn Muir, is a mind-bending and twisty space adventure that continues the story of the Ninth House. Harrowhark Nonagesimus, the last necromancer of the Ninth House, is drafted by the Emperor to fight an unwinnable war, and she must confront the possibility of her own murder. With a gothic and haunted setting, this book is a puzzle box of mystery, murder, magic, and mayhem that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Overall, Harrow the Ninth is a unique and immersive book that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Little Mushroom: Revelations is the second installment of Shisi's Little Mushroom series, which won the Silver Award in the 2021 Xingyun Awards for Global Chinese Science Fiction for Best Original Novel. The story follows An Zhe, a xenogenic who tries to escape the human base while facing obstacles, including Lu Feng. As scientists unravel the mystery behind the xenogenic mutations and their apocalyptic world, the tiny little mushroom becomes the witness to humanity's final trial. This LGBT science fiction book is a dynamic and unique addition to the genre, with a well-written plot and engaging characters.

Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that explores the depths of love and the unknown. The story follows Leah, a marine biologist who returns home after her submarine sank to the sea floor. Her wife Miri notices that something is wrong with Leah, and as Miri searches for answers, she realizes that she might be losing Leah forever. Armfield's writing is shocking, poetic, and suspenseful, making this book an absolute page-turner. Overall, Our Wives Under the Sea is an exceptional LGBT literary fiction book that stands out for its originality and emotional depth.

"Manhunt" by Gretchen Felker-Martin is a post-apocalyptic novel that follows the journey of trans men and women as they try to survive in a world overrun by feral men. The book explores themes of gender, violence, and relationships amid a gruesome and grotesque backdrop. The author's horror chops are top-notch, and the characters are roundly human with big, unwieldy emotions. The book has been described as a "fresh, stomach-turning take on gendered apocalypse" and a "filthy, furious delight." Overall, "Manhunt" is a unique and audacious dystopian story that is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.

Light From Uncommon Stars by Ryka Aoki is a queer, sci-fi adventure set in California's San Gabriel Valley. The story centers around Shizuka Satomi, who has made a deal with the devil to save her soul. She must entice seven other violin prodigies to trade their souls for success, and she has already delivered six. The final candidate she finds is Lan Tran, a retired starship captain, interstellar refugee, and mother of four. The book explores themes of magic, identity, curses, and hope, with mouthwatering descriptions of food and heart-swelling meditations on music. Aoki's novel is a radical and unputdownable book about music, found family, and identity that is sure to delight LGBT science fiction fans.

Flux by Jinwoo Chong is a thrilling and original debut novel that blends neo-noir and speculative fiction. The story follows three characters whose lives intersect as they uncover a network of secrets and an experimental technology that could upend life as they know it. The book explores the cyclical nature of grief, moving past trauma, and the pervasive nature of whiteness within the development of Asian identity in America. The author's queer and biracial Asian American protagonist adds a unique perspective to the time-travel and detective story mashup. Overall, Flux is a haunting and sometimes shocking read that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

Some Desperate Glory by Emily Tesh is a thrilling queer space opera about the aftermath of war and the lengths one must go to seek revenge. Kyr, a skilled warrior, is assigned to Nursery to bear children until she dies. But she escapes with her brother’s friend and a captive alien to seek revenge against the Wisdom, the weapon that gave the majoda victory over humanity. Tesh's debut novel is a masterful, audacious storytelling that deserves a space on shelves alongside Ursula K. Le Guin and Octavia Butler. This book is highly recommended for those who love LGBT science fiction books.

The Galaxy, and the Ground Within: A Novel (Wayfarers, 4) is a heart-warming and imaginative sci-fi book that explores the unremarkable planet Gora. When a technological failure halts all traffic to and from Gora, three unlikely strangers are thrown together at the Five-Hop One-Stop. Devoted fans and newcomers alike will enjoy the epic space setting, diverse characters, and intriguing connections. The book is a delightful, cozy novel that showcases how differences can be a source of strength, not weakness.

The Little Mushroom: Judgment Day is an award-winning LGBT science fiction novel by author Shisi. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, this novel follows the story of An Zhe, a sentient mushroom who takes on a human form and name. An Zhe's mission is to find his spore, which had been taken by humans. However, he risks discovery and execution by the Judges, who are responsible for eliminating xenogenics like him. The novel presents a unique perspective on humanity and explores themes of identity, acceptance, and survival. Overall, it is a captivating read for science fiction fans who enjoy diverse characters and thought-provoking concepts.