Start with looking at the top - rated books in the horror or LGBT+ sections on Goodreads. Some might not be explicitly labeled as gay ghost stories but could still have elements that fit. For example, some books about haunted houses where the characters' relationships have queer undertones.
Another way is to follow some popular Goodreads reviewers who are interested in LGBT+ literature and horror. Their reviews and ratings can give you a good indication of which gay ghost stories are worth reading. They might also mention some hidden gems that haven't received as much mainstream attention but are still excellent reads.
Some self - published works on Goodreads might also fall into the category of gay ghost stories. You could search for tags like 'gay' and 'ghost' together on the platform. However, these might be less well - known but can offer some unique takes on the genre. They often blend elements of the supernatural with the exploration of gay relationships and the often - othered feeling that comes with it.
One great ghost story on Goodreads is 'The Haunting of Hill House' by Shirley Jackson. It's a classic that creates a really spooky atmosphere with its description of the haunted house and the psychological effects on the characters. Another is 'The Woman in Black' by Susan Hill. It has a very eerie feel, especially with the title character who haunts the marshlands.
If you're new to Tarzan - like novels, start with 'Tarzan of the Apes'. It's the classic that started it all. You'll quickly get immersed in the world of Tarzan, his relationship with the animals, and his unique story of growing up in the jungle.
You can start by using the search bar on Goodreads. Type in 'ghost stories' and then sort the results by rating. That way, you'll get the highly rated ones first. Also, look at the listopias related to ghost stories. They are curated lists that can lead you to some great finds.
A lesser - known but really scary one from Goodreads is 'The Woman in Black' by Susan Hill. The eponymous woman in black is a truly haunting figure, and the story builds up a great sense of dread. It's a slow - burn horror that gets under your skin.
They usually have well - developed characters. The characters' reactions to the supernatural elements are crucial. For example, in 'The Turn of the Screw', the governess's psychological state as she encounters the ghosts is central to the story. Also, most of these stories often have a mystery element. The nature of the ghosts and their motives are often left somewhat ambiguous, which adds to the intrigue.
I'd suggest starting with 'The Goal' by Elle Kennedy if you like college - set athlete romances. It has a likable hero who is a hockey player and a relatable heroine. It's a fun and flirty read that gets you hooked on the genre quickly.
I really liked 'The Haunting of Hill House' which is also on Goodreads. It has a great atmosphere, and the way the author builds up the sense of unease and the possible supernatural presence is excellent. There are a lot of psychological elements mixed in with the ghostly happenings.
I really like 'Call Me by Your Name' which is also part of goodreads gay historical fiction. It's set in Italy during a certain period and shows the budding relationship between two young men. It's not just about the romance but also about self - discovery and the cultural context of the time. There's also 'A Single Man' which gives a great insight into the life of a gay man in a different era. It shows his daily struggles and his memories.
You can start by looking into classic horror literature. Writers like Edgar Allan Poe have some really spine - chilling tales. His works are often filled with mystery and the macabre, which can be a great place to begin believing in ghost stories.