📚 Books to Read After Him
Just finished him? Here are 5 magical next reads curated just for you:
📘 Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman
Rating: 4.30 / 5 (127,004 ratings), Published: 2007
When to read it: When you're reminiscing about lost love, seeking a deeply emotional connection, or craving beautifully evocative prose.
This tender coming-of-age story follows the passionate love affair between Elio and Oliver during a sun-soaked Italian summer. Like "him," this novel explores desire, longing, and the complexities of human connection with exquisite sensitivity. It's a lyrical journey that will linger in your heart long after you turn the final page.
Genres: LGBTQ+, Romance, Coming-of-Age, Literary Fiction
After reading: You'll be swept away by the intoxicating beauty of Aciman's writing and the poignant exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery.
📘 A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
Rating: 4.30 / 5 (165,175 ratings), Published: 2015
When to read it: During a reflective moment, when you're prepared to be emotionally challenged and delve deep into the complexities of human relationships.
This profoundly moving novel follows the lives of four college friends in New York, centering on Jude, whose traumatic past casts a long shadow on his present. Just like "him," this book delves into the depths of human emotion, exploring love, friendship, and the enduring impact of our pasts. It's a raw and cathartic journey that will leave you breathless with its emotional intensity.
Genres: Contemporary Fiction, LGBTQ+, Friendship, Trauma
After reading: You'll be left in awe of Yanagihara's ability to evoke profound emotions and the enduring power of human resilience and connection.
📘 Less by Andrew Sean Greer
Rating: 3.82 / 5 (61,860 ratings), Published: 2017
When to read it: When you're in need of a heartwarming, witty escape, or searching for a light-hearted yet deeply touching story.
Follow Arthur Less, a failed novelist on the brink of turning 50, as he embarks on a whimsical journey around the world to avoid his ex-boyfriend's wedding. Similar to "him," this novel combines humor and poignancy, offering a charming exploration of love, loss, and the search for meaning. It's a delightful and bittersweet tale that will make you laugh and tug at your heartstrings in equal measure.
Genres: Humor, LGBTQ+, Travel, Literary Fiction
After reading: You'll feel uplifted by the heartening journey of self-discovery and acceptance that Less undertakes, reminding you of the beauty in life's unexpected twists and turns.
📘 The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
Rating: 4.32 / 5 (214,558 ratings), Published: 2011
When to read it: When you're yearning for a beautifully reimagined classic tale of love and heroism, or seeking a richly emotional narrative.
This remarkable retelling of the Trojan War through the eyes of Patroclus, Achilles' closest companion, offers a poignant exploration of love, friendship, and destiny. Like "him," this novel weaves together myth and emotion seamlessly, capturing the complexities of human relationships and the sacrifices made for love. It's a breathtaking and heart-rending journey that will resonate deeply with your soul.
Genres: Mythology, Historical Fiction, Romance, LGBTQ+
After reading: You'll be swept away by Miller's lyrical prose and the timeless, profound love story at the heart of this epic tale, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for the power of love and sacrifice.
📘 Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Rating: 4.25 / 5 (108,821 ratings), Published: 2019
When to read it: When you crave a joyful, heartwarming read that celebrates love in all its forms or simply need a pick-me-up.
Dive into this delightful romantic comedy that imagines a secret love affair between the First Son of the United States and a British Prince. Similar to "him," this novel is brimming with wit, charm, and swoon-worthy romance, offering a fresh take on love, politics, and identity. It's a jubilant and uplifting story that will leave you with a smile on your face and warmth in your heart.
Genres: Romance, LGBTQ+, Politics, Humor
After reading: You'll feel uplifted by the infectious joy and heartening message of hope and love that shines through