Jen’s 2024 Diversify Your Romance Challenge

LGBTQ+ History Month

October marks LGBTQ+ History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the lives, struggles, and triumphs of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities. More than just a celebration, it’s a time to reflect on the ongoing journey toward equality and acceptance, and the countless contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals throughout history.

Chosen to align with several significant dates, LGBTQ+ History Month invites us to recognize pivotal moments like National Coming Out Day on October 11, Spirit Day on October 20 to support LGBTQ+ youth, and Asexual Awareness Week during the last week of October. These days—and this month—offer space to uplift our stories and create visibility for those whose love and identities have long been marginalized.

As we look back on queer history, it’s important to remember that storytelling is one of the most powerful ways we preserve our past and imagine new futures. Romance novels, in particular, offer the chance to see love thrive and remind us that everyone deserves a happy ending. Audiobooks bring these stories to life in new ways, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of queer love and resilience wherever we are.

Here are three audiobook romances that honor queer history and celebrate the love that continues to shape our world:

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, narrated by Ramón de Ocampo

Set against the backdrop of U.S. politics and the British monarchy, Red, White & Royal Blue is a delightful and heartwarming story about the son of the U.S. president falling in love with a British prince. More than a modern-day fairytale, it explores the intersections of duty, identity, and public visibility for queer people in power. This book offers both romance and a nod to the historical significance of queer representation in politics and royalty.

The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar, narrated by Priya Ayyar

The Henna Wars centers on Nishat, a Bangladeshi-Irish lesbian teen navigating cultural expectations and her identity. This coming-of-age love story highlights the intersectionality within queer identities, exploring the pressures that can exist when cultural history meets modern queer life. A love story at its core, this book shines a light on the often-overlooked experiences of queer people of color in contemporary settings. The audiobook captures the sweetness and complexity of first love and self-discovery.

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune, narrated by Daniel Henning

For a bisexual romance that will warm your heart, look no further than The House in the Cerulean Sea. This story is set in a world where magical children are cared for in government-regulated orphanages, and Linus Baker, a bureaucrat, is sent to a mysterious island to check on a group of unusual and extraordinary kids. There, he meets Arthur Parnassus, the caretaker of the home, and through their gentle and developing relationship, we see a touching and sweet romance blossom. This audiobook offers both a magical escape and a reflection on acceptance, found family, and love that transcends labels.

Ready to Diversify Your Romance Reading?

If you’re looking for more ways to discover diverse and inclusive love stories, I invite you to check out Diversify Your Romance: A Reading Journal. It’s designed to help you track your reading, explore new authors, and engage with guided challenges that celebrate underrepresented voices in romance. Available now on my website and Amazon, this journal will not only expand your bookshelf but also deepen your appreciation for stories that reflect the full spectrum of love.

This LGBTQ+ History Month, let’s celebrate the stories—both fictional and real—that have shaped queer history. Whether you’re looking to experience love that transcends politics, culture, or even time itself, these audiobooks are a perfect way to honor our past while cherishing the love stories that continue to move us forward.

What are your favorite queer romance stories? Share in the comments and let’s diversify our reading lists!

By honoring queer love stories, we take part in a greater legacy of LGBTQ+ history—a legacy that deserves to be told, retold, and celebrated every day. Happy LGBTQ+ History Month! 🌈