Show Notes
If you've watched Bridgerton but thought 'this could be gayer,' you may enjoy this episode's selection! Don't Want You Like A Best Friend by Emma R Alban is a fluffy, queer historical romance set in the Victorian era, that follows new friends Gwen and Beth as they navigate the courting season and also their unexpected feelings for one another. Join hosts Jamie and Amber as they discuss poorly carried out plotting, female autonomy, historical queer couples, and the logistics of having a quickie in a corset.
More from Reading the Rainbow
Recorded at the Dauphin County Library System's Rainbow Makers' Fair on 6/20/26, Amber interviews makers and attendees to find out their favorite queer books and tropes!
Reflecting on how far books have come in LGBTQ+ representation since they were kids, Ben and Jamie discuss some of the books that made an impact on them in their journeys.
The truly riveting Meg Day joins cohosts Ben and Samantha in this episode as they discuss Day's book, Last Psalm at Sea Level. Meg describes their inspiration for this breathtaking collection of poetry , from Donne and deafness, to simply wanting to be seen for who you are. An hour has never gone by so quickly! If you're interested in reading Last Psalm at Sea Level after listening to this episode, consider borrowing it from your local library or purchasing it from an independent bookstore!
If you've ever wished for an early 20th century book that combines capitalism with a lavender marriage and a winking narration style, Olivia Wolfgang-Smith's Mutual Interest should be on the top of your TBR pile!