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This is probably one of the most important romance book recommendation posts I’ve ever written.
I genuinely believe the trans community needs more representation, and honestly, I’m a little disappointed in myself that it took listening to a podcast episode about Elegabula for me to finally put this list together.
And yes, I know that’s a weird tangent – please don’t comment on it!
Anyway, this is a list of the very best queer romance novels with trans characters – and I think everyone, whether you’re trans or not, should read them.
I especially love how the romance in these books feels so hopeful and bright, while still managing to stay realistic.
And really, that’s all I ever want in a romance book.
Most Ardently by Gabe Cole Novoa
In Most Ardently, Oliver Bennet is a trans boy in 1812 London, trapped in a life he never chose.
Forced to pretend to be a girl, Oliver dreams of a future where he can live authentically.
His life takes a turn when he meets Darcy, a seemingly rude young man who turns out to be sweet, intelligent, and attractive.
As Oliver spends more time as himself, he grows closer to Darcy and starts to believe in the possibility of love and freedom.
But society’s pressure for Oliver to marry someone he doesn’t love looms over him.
It’s a beautiful, heartfelt story about finding the courage to live your truth, even when everything feels against you.
I love how this book explores Oliver’s struggle for authenticity – his journey is so moving, and the romance with Darcy is just so sweet.
The Prospects by KT Hoffman
Gene Ionescu is the first openly trans player in professional baseball, but when his old rival, Luis Estrada, is traded to his team, their tense relationship turns into something more.
As they spend time together, their chemistry ignites, but Gene has to come to terms with his feelings and what he wants for his future.
This is a super exciting, heartwarming story about discovering love where you least expect it.
I absolutely love the way Gene’s confidence grows throughout the book, and the romance with Luis is both steamy and sweet.
The whole idea of two rivals finding love is always so fun.
Make Room for Love by Darcy Liao
Mira’s life is flipped upside down when a stunning butch woman, Isabel, comes to her rescue and offers her a place to stay.
Mira isn’t into women, but Isabel makes her feel things she’s never felt before.
As they grow closer, Mira realizes she might be falling for Isabel, but she’s afraid of opening her heart.
This slow-burn romance is so beautifully done, and I love how it shows Mira’s discovery of her bisexuality and the deep bond she forms with Isabel.
The way they care for each other is so touching, and their chemistry is undeniable.
This book is both steamy and sweet – just the perfect mix, if you ask me.
Always the Almost by Edward Underhill
Miles Jacobson, a 16-year-old trans pianist, has two goals for the year: to win back his ex-boyfriend, Shane, and to finally beat his arch-nemesis in a big piano competition.
But when he meets Eric, a new boy who makes him feel things he’s never felt before, his plans start to shift.
I really enjoyed how this book dives into Miles’ internal struggles with his identity and his past relationships.
Eric is such a warm, supportive character, and I love how their connection grows.
This book is all about finding love in unexpected places and learning to accept yourself.
Miles’ journey is one of growth, and it really resonated with me.
And They Were Roommates by Page Powars
Charlie, a trans student at Valentine Academy for Boys, is trying to hide his identity when he ends up rooming with the one person he never wanted to see again: Jasper, the boy who broke his heart.
But Jasper doesn’t recognize Charlie yet, and Charlie has one chance to keep his secret.
As they spend more time together, old feelings start to resurface.
This is such a fun, hilarious second-chance romance.
The tension between Charlie and Jasper is so real, and their interactions are both funny and sweet.
I loved watching them reconnect and slowly open up to each other. It’s just a really heartwarming story.
Meet Cute Diary by Emery Lee
Noah Ramirez is the creator of the Meet Cute Diary, a blog that shares trans happily-ever-afters, even though they’re all made up.
When a troll exposes his blog as fiction, Noah enlists Drew, a new boy in town, to help fake-date him to save the Diary’s reputation.
But soon, Noah starts to fall for Drew, and things get complicated.
This is a super cute, swoon-worthy romance!
I love how Noah’s journey is about accepting real love and how different it is from his fantasy world.
Drew is such a sweet character, and their chemistry is adorable.
It’s a heartwarming exploration of love, identity, and finding yourself.
In Case You Read This by Edward Underhill
When Arden and Gabe, two trans boys, meet by chance in a motel lobby, they share an unforgettable night.
But when they part ways, they’re left wondering if fate will bring them together again.
This book is full of serendipity, missed connections, and finding love in unexpected places.
I loved the way Arden and Gabe’s relationship developed – slowly, tenderly, and with so much emotion.
Their journey of reconnecting felt so real, and I loved how their bond grew stronger.
It’s a sweet, feel-good story about queer love and the beauty of second chances.
For the Love of April French by Penny Aimes
April French, a trans woman, isn’t looking for a relationship – she’s happy with her life of casual encounters at a kink club.
But when Dennis walks into her life, everything changes.
One night of passion turns into something deeper, and April finds herself wanting more.
This book is both steamy and emotional, and I really loved April’s character.
Her struggle with trusting someone and her desire for something real resonated with me.
Dennis is a great match for her, and their relationship is full of complexity and heart.
It’s a story about letting go of fears and embracing love, and I loved every minute of it.
They Ain’t Proper by M.B. Guel
In the Wild West of the 1880s, Lou Ramirez, a trans man, plans to live a quiet life but finds his peace disturbed when Clementine Castellanos arrives at his door as his new wife.
Lou is reluctant, but Clementine is determined to make their unconventional marriage work.
This is a story of finding love and independence in a harsh world, and I loved the way Lou and Clementine’s relationship blossomed.
There’s so much depth to their connection, and the historical setting makes the romance even more unique.
Chef’s Choice by TJ Alexander
This is a deliciously steamy romance featuring a trans chef who finds himself falling for a customer who has a lot of secrets.
The chemistry between them is undeniable, and the way they manage their feelings and challenges makes for an engaging, emotional story.
I love how this book blends romance with self-discovery and the complexities of trans love in a world that’s often unkind.
The characters are both relatable and lovable, and I enjoyed seeing their connection develop over time.
It’s a sweet, satisfying romance with plenty of heart, and I came away from it absolutely in love with everything.
If you’ve made it this far, you’ll see that I’ve included everything from historical romance to young adult and adult contemporary romance – so there’s truly something for everyone.
Be sure to check out the related posts for even more recommendations.
And if you’re still looking for more, here’s a list of the best lesbian romance novels I’ve ever read, plus another on the best queer suspense books that are perfect for this season.
And finally, don’t miss my list of the best LGBTQ+ memoirs ever written.
