James Baldwin is one of the best American writers, of any sexuality, and he often writes about gay characters. Giovanni’s Room is an old fave, but Another Country is his masterpiece, I think.
There’s a really excellent book that isn’t pornographic, but is quite feminist/political. It’s called Conditions of War. I forget the author—maybe Lierre Keith?
“The House at the End of the World” by Michael Cunningham.
However, I prefer “The Hours” by the same author (yes, has movie of the same name that Nicole Kidman got an Oscar for her portrayal of Virginia Woolf) ... even though the homosexual relationships / moments are only tangential to the dominant themes. Really good book – worth reading in any case. It definitely makes it into my favorites list.
The Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by MIchael Chabon is a great read. I don’t know if it qualifies as “gay fiction” but it has at least one strong gay character.
“Beyond The Pale” by Elana Dykewoman, about Jewish Immigrants from Eastern Europe at the turn of the century. I couldn’t put it down, and was so disappointed when it ended.
this is more aimed toward youth, but david levithan writes some incredible books, even for teen standards or whatever, and every book he writes involves a gay character, whether they’re the main character or not.
Guy de Maupassant’s short stories…he, himself was gay. So, his stories are written from his personal point of view. Great, great insight into human nature.