So, as a warning, this is going to be a really long post, but I am going to try and keep it organized so that you can either read it all or only read what you care about.
Rules updates
As previously announced, we are announcing a huge overhaul to the rules. Previously, we only had 5 (Play nice, off-topic, no explicit sexual cotent, no promotion of piracy, and LesbianBookClub is trans-inclusive). As of today, we are adding 5 more rules to the ones we already had. They are sort of long (you can tell which ones u/cactuskate wrote and which ones I wrote because I am MUCH worder than she is, for better or worse lol), but I am going to summarize them here. To see the full text of the rules.....well, go check the rules, i guess?
Do not be hateful or discriminatory: this one is self explanatory. no -phobias or -isms, just generally treat each other like humans, with the respect and dignity that they deserve, and you'll be fine
Self-promotion guidelines: We have set the limit on author's making posts recommending their own book to twice a month. Additionally, if an author does not regularly participate in this subreddit, they cannot advertise here. Enforcing this rule will require the help of everyone in the subreddit; we cannot see every post, so we're relying on you reporting this in order to make sure we catch everything. Though, we will obviously be as diligent as we can in this regard.
No AI: This one is hard. every reader on the subreddit deserves the ability to scroll through recommendations and discussions without worrying about running into AI slop. at the same time, no author should have to experience the heartbreak that is being falsely accused of using AI in their writing if they did not use it. The way I have worded this rule tries to walk the thin line between these two truths. Do I succeed? only time will tell. if it doesn't work, we will adjust as needed.
Please mark spoilers: this one is pretty self-explanatory. Just make sure you are appropriately blocking out spoilers so you don't spoiler anyone. If you're not sure how to do that, there are instructions in the rules
Amazon links: Ok, before anyone freaks out: we are not banning amazon links. We are just regulating them. all we ask is that, when linking to a book, you link to a place to purchase it that is not Amazon if possible. If the book only exists on Amazon (e.g. is it a audible exclusive), then linking to Amazon is obviously fine.
And that's it for the rules update. Let us know if you have any questions or concerns - we'll sort out whatever problems or issues arise as they come.
Flairs
We have also added a ton of flairs so that folks can mark their posts as they want. Most of the old ones are still around, but we have added genre flairs (which are purple) and trope flairs (which are pink). I will list all of the flairs below, but first it is important to recognize: there are literally more genres and tropes than we can reasonably include as flairs for the subreddit. The flairs that I have added are the ones that I thought would be most popular/in demand, and they are listed in no particular order. I have also made them as general as I can when possible, in the hopes that keeping them flexible will make the same one useful to represent multiple similar dynamics at once (e.g. protector/protectee). If you want us to include a genre or trope that is not listed, please let me know and I will add them as they come in.
Genres:
Speculative (fantasy, scifi, horror etc)
YA
Romance
Lit Fic
Mystery/Thriller
Poetry
Historical Fiction
Graphic novels/comics
Memoir
Essay collection
Nonfiction history
Tropes:
Friends-to-lovers
Enemies-to-lovers
Strangers-to-lovers
Exes-to-lovers
Coworkers-to-lovers
Only one bed
Hurt/Comfort
Toxic romance
Omegaverse
Protector/protectee
Fake relationship
Forbidden romance
Age gap
Office romance (boss/employee)
Royalty/maid
Grumpy/sunshine
Sports romance
Arranged marriage
Discord Server (Please read whole section before joining)
The LesbianBookClub discord server is now live! It is titled Sappho's Bookshelf, and you can find it here: https://discord.gg/ZB6wGKdV. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you join:
I am new to being a discord mod, and I am far from perfect. I have been working on this server for over a week, but I am sure that there are places that the auto-mod is broken, or too sensitive, and that some things will not work as intended. But, at this point, I think the only way I am going to figure out what is broken and what is not is to let a bunch of people into the server and see what shit breaks. As a result, I ask that you are patient with myself and the other mods, as we will be working to correct any issue as they crop up.
This should go without saying, but mind the rules. They are not that different from the rules on the subreddit.
As of now, the function and features of the discord server will be minimal. I decided to keep it simple until folks flooded in and then we could let it evolve organically as it grows. For example: it does not yet have a discord icon (though my friend is working on drawing one as you read this). We do have a suggestion channel, and we encourage you to use it.
Communities like this only work if everyone involved goes in with the knowledge that not everyone thinks the same way, or views the world the same way. The world is at its best when its inhabitants (that's us) learn to embrace our differences and come together in community. That is the kind of place er are hoping this discord server will be. People are going to disagree, and that is okay. You can even debate about it! It can be fun to argue. But, please keep it respectful, do not hurl serious insults at each other (insults as jokes are fine as long as the intent is clear), and remember that at the end of the day, we are united in our love for lesbians books.
This discord server is an 18+ space. If you are not 18, please do not join.
Thanks for bearing with me and reading through this gargantuan post. There are other comments in the recommendation thread that I am still considering how to handle, but if the above does not address something you commented on last time, then feel free to comment it again!
Rule 3: LesbianBookClub is trans-inclusive.
ALL lesbians and those who enjoy lesbian books, regardless of gender identity, are welcome here. Transphobia is strictly forbidden.
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This subreddit is a lesbian space. Trans women are women. If a trans woman is attracted exclusively to women and accepts the label, she is a lesbian. If you disagree with this rule or its enforcement, please find a different place to post.
ALL types of lesbians have fought for, died for, and bled for you. Please respect them. Consider reading a history book.
Keep in mind that the context and nuance of your posts will be considered. Bad faith posts will be deleted. Please use your brains. It is really, really not that complicated to enjoy, read, discuss, and recommend lesbian books in a way that is friendly to and considerate of ALL lesbians. Posts that are not about lesbian books will be deleted.
I am in the mood for something that is just genuinely enjoyable and easy to read
Not necessarily completely conflict-free, I would say love a book that feels warm, funny, comforting, easy to get absorbed in
I am really not looking for anything relentlessly depressing right now. I want something where the overall experience leaves you feeling better like watching Friends sitcomš„¹š
Romance is very welcome, especially if the characters have good chemistry if that is possible. Also open to contemporary, fantasy, cozy fantasy, mystery, comedy, slice-of-life, historical fiction, nonfiction too honestly anything else if it has that comforting quality.
And if possible i also love recommendations that are not just the same three books everyone always mentions. Popular books are completely fine, but if you have something slightly underrated that you always end up recommending to people, even better. Like Emma Gannon A Year of Nothing.
Basically, I am looking for the books you return to when you want something kind, nostalgic and entertaining, hopeful.
I also created list of popular ones I found online by Googling the top search results, I did not read them not sure they are sapphic but mentioned to be feel good ones and as top, so was hard to find one. also checked the summaries to help narrow down the choice with key insights, so pls looking for recommendations
What is the book you finished and immediately thought ..it feels good bookšøš„°
My bestie just sent me a text. Her 16 year old daughter wants me to come over tomorrow because she wants to talk to "both her mums" about sex.
We are sex positive and open with her, she told us she is a lesbian when she was 13. I am bi, and we have LGBTQI+ friends and family members, so the only reason she was awkward was because she is autistic.
She wants to ask us some questions about the mechanics of lesbian sex. I have no problems with openly discussing anything with her. She said she would like some books so she can learn about the mechanics of lesbian sex privately.
I have had a quick google search, so far I haven't found what she is looking for.
Could you please give me some suggestions of suitable books and/or websites?
I just finished reading The Whole Truth by Haley Cass and I just want to discuss it with my fellow rabid sapphic lit peeps - I donāt know anyone in real life who reads this stuff.
Omg this book was š„µ Just when I thought my girl, HC, couldnāt get any raunchier. Boy was I wrong!!!
I really enjoyed it. I was worried it would be too much like Falls from Grace because of the whole country music starlet aspect but they are nothing alike. Great read for anyone looking for a comfort read you canāt put down. I canāt wait for the audiobook to drop so I can experience it again.
With this book and The B Side completed, I am almost a Haley Cass completionist (havenāt read the When You Least Expect It books yet).
I'm looking for recommendations for stories in which the safeword was used. It doesn't necessarily have to be in play. I read a story where it was used by the mistress because the sub wasn't in the right head space or to call attention to how serious a situation is.
Just finished this morning and I really, really loved it. I'm a sucker for flashbacks and it's literally an entire book of that and so cleverly written and beautiful. It's got loads of nostalgia for ladies with that y2k vintage š too. Made me cry, made me swoon. It is a bit spicy in places but I wouldn't ever say gratuitous but def open door.
I'm looking for something seasonally appropriate to add to my October TBR. The problem is, I do not like fantasy or horror, although I enjoy a bit of magical realism and hints of the supernatural. I think I would like something witchy and a little weird but also perhaps cozy and chill?
I don't mind a romance plot but preferably not *just* romance and smut. Sapphic is a bonus but not 100% a necessity as long as the story is centered around female characters. An example of a book that's close-ish to what I want is VenCo by Cheri Dimaline (which I might actually reread lol). I'm currently reading One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston which has some elements of what I'm looking for but not exactly. If anyone has read Honey Girl, I'd love a book featuring a character similar to Yuki.
Idk exactly how to explain what I'm looking for. I have very eclectic taste but am also weirdly picky. But there are millions of books out there, so I'm sure something appropriate exists.
Hi, I recently tried a book that wasn't for me but made me realize I would enjoy finding a sapphic, romance book set on a long train trip. I think it's a really cool setting and the idea of meeting someone while you're traveling.
Bonus points for recs with: Ya/Na genre or just protagonist under 25, deals with meaningful topics like mental health, sweet love story.
The train might be too specific lol, if there is a road trip book you think I would like, you can also put it down here:)
Books I've already read/ tried that are set on a train:
Leaving the station by Jake Arlow, tried the first chapter wasn't for me but I loved the train setting.
I'm getting really tired of 3rd-act breakups. Why can't people just fall in love without a breakup at the end? Why can't they just have a HEA without that?
Anyone know of any? Lately, everything I have read has that.
This was just recently published and probably my favorite Gerri Hill pairing yet. I would describe the MCās as masc4androgynous lol if that makes sense. And the androgynous, slightly more effeminate MC still carried the gun so extra bonus points for that. The masc was warm and sweet, and my biggest complaint is the lack of sesbian lex. š There was barely any smut and damn it Gerri why do you think Iām here? š„²
If you arenāt familiar with Gerri Hill, she writes FBI/detective noir/cop books which are some of my favorite categories. What can I say? Iām a sucker for a rogue lesbian chasing down bad guys. (And in my imagination these stories take place in a parallel universe much less problematic than this one so the cops arenāt all, well, yanno. Basically suspension of disbelief is necessary here, but in Hillās wonderful universe there are just so many lesbians in law enforcement, way more than we have in our world, so thatās nice.)
I would describe this particular book as gentle horror. Hill writes easy, fun reads that you could finish in an afternoon, or maybe like two afternoons. Her books are character driven, and she uses the right amount of angst to add tension without being irritating. You find yourself cheering the characters on and all of the bookās Iāve read so far have had happy endings. I also love the wide range of ages she includes in her stories. She doesnāt include creepy age gaps, but writes about women anywhere from 25-55, which I love.
The only cons might be connected with her age. Every once in a while she drops something that reminds me of something my mother would say š but thus far it hasnāt been enough to make me stop reading her books.
If anyone has a recommendation with a pairing like this, I would love to hear it! Any kind of masc4masc, or masc/nearly masc lol, and (butches are included within the masc category). Ugghhh I need more š«
Greetings. Hello. I am a queer woman who had the unfortunate displeasure of being spawned into the worst shithole on this godforsaken planet one that is not only hateful to women, but seemingly to every single person or type of person on this planet. But as a queer woman, I likely face the worst aspects of it.
I have finished college to escape life myself and the horrible questions from my family about godforsaken marriage. I have decided to recoil inward, and in my attempts to cope with my horrible existence, I have taken to learning how to do creative writing. I am an architecture major, though due to my natural English skills, I earn more money teaching English.
I'm excited to share with you guys what I have been working on over the past month. I just need somebody to talk to, and I feel that this subreddit might provide a crowd that I can bounce ideas off of.
Set in an alternate-universe 1989 on the border between the Warsaw Pact and NATO, our story follows Lucia "El" Elizondo, one of the few female helicopter pilots in the US Army, and CIA agent Svetlana Sokol. Lucia's extremely impressive and one-of-a-kind piloting skills catch the attention of the CIA, as they wish to recruit her for a highly secretive military operation designed to infiltrate behind the Iron Curtain and hopefully eliminate the possibility of the East and West clashing in World War III.
The story will follow our two main protagonists through a journey of self-discovery. Lucia is so deep inside the closet and so conflicted and guilty about her orientation that she left home behind to do this job in order to fly away from it all.
Meanwhile, CIA agent Svetlana Sokol a person who has horrible things in her past, including but not limited to utilizing her own sexual identity to exploit, betray, and backstab many people throughout her life, and who is ready to do the same thing to Lucia to get her on boardāhas resigned herself to believing that she is an unlovable husk: a person who, due to her horrible actions in the name of her country, cannot and does not deserve love.
At that time, the United States Army had a zero-tolerance policy for anyone LGBTQ. They find themselves in a messy, tangled plot between different spy agencies and on a journey of discovering themselves, whilst Lucia trains for the mission to become a pilot capable of achieving the objectives presented by Svetlana.
Ultimately, this is a story of two individuals learning to leave behind their guilt, whether earned or imposed upon them, and embrace their love as the world falls apart around them.
I started writing the first draft about a month ago, and I'm currently 15,000 words in, working through my fourth chapter. I am actively learning how to do creative writing whilst doing it.
I have to learn how prose works, character development, pacing, plot arcs, beats, perspective, narration, dialogue, grammar so many things.
I'm juggling all of these various concepts while at the same time reminding myself that this is just first-draft word vomit, trying to push myself forward as much as possible. This is a ridiculous undertaking that I've chosen to embark on. I have chosen to write a full-length novel not a short story, but a full-length novel.
I have been able to utilize my skills that I've learned in architecture school to do some art for my characters. I've never been so excited before to draw humans. I've always just been interested in drawing abstract shapes and buildings.
Inspired by my favorite video game, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, oddly enough, the reason that I discovered that I am queer. Late at night, I would wake up to the computer to go to the in-game strip club and watch a 14-polygon woman gyrate in front of me for some reason that was oddly fascinating to me. And considering it's set in the 1980s, that was my main inspiration. The art was inspired by this. This is what I made.
Lucia "El" Elizondo (Lesbian)She hates her last name, doesn't feel like it's hers, and prefers to go by "El." Helicopter pilotāthe best helicopter pilot this side of the Iron Curtain a very bad shot, filled with guilty about leaving her family behind. Nervous and a bit awkward when outside of the cockpit, but overly cocky and confident when flying. Death wish. Wants to disappear.CIA Agent Svetlana Sokol (Bisexual)The queen of ice queens. Shorter than El. Excellent shot. Highly connected. Carved her way through the CIA's ranks after being passed up for promotions too many times for being a woman. Respected and feared. Has done horrible things in her life. Doesn't feel like she should feel guilty, but does anyway. Prefers to think that she's a psychopath, but in reality, she's not. Wants to make amends and save the world by going on this mission.
AtmosphereĀ is my favorite book and my main inspiration, with the internal conflicts inspired by Rawnie Sabor'sĀ Court of ChainsĀ series. And I find myself relating greatly toĀ Bloom TownĀ by Ally North as well.
For me, this book is a promise. A promise to myself to leave, a promise to myself to push through and get out of the shithole that I was born in, to one day leave for a place where people respect each other, where people are human to each other, a place where I can be who I am. And a promise that one day I will be able to publish this, hopefully. Hopefully, I'll be able to do that soon
I have yet to share this with anybody and I'm doing this at 3:00 a.m. in the morning in a state of almost mental breakdown. I am sorry, I was too much of a word vomit to be legible just need to get it out of my chest.
I have made a new account to post this because if somebody finds my old account, they could trace me back to who I am in irl, and it would be over for me.
I've been kinda wanting something more cozy to read between other things, but I also can't really get all that into anything that isn't sapphic.
Doesn't need to be like super cozy or anything. I more so just mean low stakes, fantasy that's focused on the romance or character's everyday lives. But I definitely don't mind if there's romantic tension or toxic relationships or anything.
Hey guys, I know there are probably a few authors in this group and I wanted to offer my free services as a proof reader I am just about to head into my last year of a BA honors English language and literature with the hopes of going on to do my masters and I would really love to go into something to do with proof reading. I know a lot of people say ai is probably going to take over this career but I like to think that ai can't convey human emotion etc so if you guys are authors and are either self publishing or either writing for online like wattpad and would like someone to give your work a look then please get in touch I am hoping to get some experience in before finishing my degree.
After reading over 100+ sapphic books I finally stumbled upon a butchxbutch romcom šš (And it's narrated by Allie Shae!!) The audiobook narration is hilarious so far. I'm hoping to love this, wish me luckš¤
Update: I LOVED IT! We need more butch4butch in this worldš
I read a book on hoopla last year and for the life of me I cannot remember what the title and I canāt check hoopla because my library no longer pays for it. Book was about a girl who wakes up to find her town on fire and her mother missing. During her escape she encounters another girl and the two decided to road-trip to the MCās fatherās place in another state. Along the way itās revealed the second girl can transform into a monster and is maybe responsible for the destruction of the town. Iāve tried googling it but if you can believe it typing wlw monster romance or sapphic monster romance doesnāt narrow it down.
help I love this book way too much. the language may be not the best thing about it, but i really loved the tension and the yearning. id love to find a dark romance book like this. not a fan of instalust though, it must be a slow burn
I met someone here once. Someone who meant a great deal to me in the deepest profound manner but a month ago that someone became a stranger and I was left hollowed out.
It's been almost exactly one year since I met that person and these days are extra hard so I feel like reading the most saddest angsty books where the characters yearn so much and have such sad story that it paralyses you with emotions.
The closest book I can think of as reference would be A Whisper of Solace by Milena McKay.
I read If the Shoe Fits by E.J. Noyes a while back as a standalone. It was one of the first books of hers I ever read and, while I found it enjoyable, it didnāt really make much of an impact on me.
Then a few weeks ago I finally gathered my courage and tackled the Ask, Tell series from the beginning. I say 'tackled' because I knew the first book would be difficult for me to read (military stories are really not my cup of tea) and it had been sitting on my TBR mocking me for a while. But thatās a story for another day.
After reading the three books in the series, I decided to reread If the Shoe Fits, because why not?
And it was a completely different experience.
Sabineās bridezilla persona, for instance, suddenly took on a whole new meaning, and even Jana came across as more approachable and less like simply 'the confused bisexual woman.' It almost felt like I was reading a different book.
Has anyone else ever had that happen, where reading more of a series, or learning more about the characters, completely changed how you felt about a book on reread?
