Luna Lovegood from the 'Harry Potter' series, while not the main focus of a lesbian relationship in the books, has been the subject of much fan speculation regarding her possible lesbian identity. Her eccentric nature and unique relationships within the wizarding world make her a character that could potentially be seen in this light in fan - created fantasy scenarios.
One well - known lesbian character in fantasy novels is Alanna from 'The Song of the Lioness' series. She challenges gender norms and has complex relationships with other female characters. Another example could be Morrigan from 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' series. These characters add diversity to the fantasy genre, allowing for different types of relationships and character development to be explored.
One great lesbian character in fantasy novels is Moraine from 'The Wheel of Time' series. She has a complex personality and strong magical abilities. Her relationship with other female characters, especially her sisterhood - like bond with some, can be seen in a way that implies a lesbian undertone. Another is Delilah Bard from 'Shades of Magic' series. She is a fierce and independent character, and her relationship with Lila has some queer - coded elements.
One of the well - known ones is 'Ash' by Malinda Lo. It weaves a beautiful story set in a fantasy world with elements of a lesbian relationship.
Some fantasy novels represent lesbian characters through their struggles in a world that may not be fully accepting. Their relationships are sometimes kept in the shadows or are a part of a sub - plot that gradually unfolds. This can add a layer of realism as they have to navigate not only the general challenges of the fantasy world like magic - related threats but also the social stigma. For instance, in a medieval - setting fantasy novel, a lesbian character might have to hide her feelings for another woman to avoid ostracism from her community.
Kushiel's Dart by Jacqueline Carey has some interesting female characters with lesbian undertones. Phedre, the main character, has relationships with both men and women in a world that is rich in complex sexual and power dynamics. Her relationship with another female character, like Hyacinthe, has a depth that can be considered lesbian - like.
I'd recommend 'Gideon the Ninth' by Tamsyn Muir. It's a unique blend of dark humor, necromancy, and a slow - burning relationship between two female characters. The world is full of strange and interesting things, like the different houses of necromancers and their cavaliers.
Another is 'The Priory of the Orange Tree' by Samantha Shannon. While it has multiple storylines, it includes a relationship between two women that is beautifully developed within the grand fantasy setting. It's a long book but well worth the read as it has a complex plot, interesting characters, and a vividly created world.
Well, 'Not Your Sidekick' by C. B. Lee is a great one. It's a super fun and diverse story that includes a lesbian romance. The superhero - inspired world is really cool and the characters are so endearing. Then there's 'These Witches Don't Burn' by Isabel Sterling. It has witchy elements and a great lesbian relationship that develops as the characters face various threats in their town. And 'The Henna Wars' by Adiba Jaigirdar is also very good. It deals with cultural identity as well as a sweet lesbian love story set in a school environment.
Lesbian characters can also be catalysts for character growth. Suppose a main character in a fantasy novel is initially prejudiced against same - sex relationships. Interacting with a lesbian character can make the main character re - evaluate their beliefs, which is a significant part of the plot's evolution. They can also bring in different cultural elements if they come from a specific lesbian - friendly sub - culture within the fantasy world.
Some well - known lesbian novels include 'Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit' by Jeanette Winterson. It's a semi - autobiographical novel that explores themes of identity and love. Another one could be 'The Price of Salt' by Patricia Highsmith, which was quite revolutionary for its time in depicting a lesbian relationship.