The Heart2Heart anthology series continues to champion diverse LGBTQ+ romance with the release of its eighth volume, set for publication on November 3, 2025. Featuring an impressive lineup of queer authors, this latest collection showcases a wide range of stories spanning from sweet and tender moments to spicy, flirty encounters. The series is celebrated not only for its rich storytelling but also for its commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ charities through anthology proceeds, reinforcing its mission to promote love in all its forms.
Volume 8 maintains the anthology's tradition of vibrant, character-driven tales, united by the playful concept of a dating and community app that matches queer singles with the perfect temporary plus one. This premise cleverly explores the varied reasons people might seek companionship—from attending a funeral to standing by a friend’s side at events, or even something as everyday as walking a dog—capturing authentic slices of queer life and connection in a meaningful way.
Among the standout stories is The Hot Date with Death by C. Rochelle, which blends a darker start with warmth, wit, and chemistry, centering on Shay hiring Josh as a fake boyfriend for a funeral. The narrative deftly balances depth, characterisation, and flirtation, marking a compelling introduction to Rochelle’s writing for many readers. Similarly, EM Denning’s Light Me Up offers a haunted walking tour date, praised for its charm despite its brevity. Riley Nash delivers their trademark emotional and steamy storytelling with I Know the Way Home, where the characters navigate vulnerability and hope while awaiting medical results.
The anthology’s appeal is not only in the individual stories but also in its diversity of voices and styles, with contributions from authors such as Becca Seymour, Briar Prescott, Cambria Hebert, and Charlie Novak, among others. Past volumes have also introduced notable tales like Pandora Pine’s endearing Starry Night, a quick, cute read featuring supernatural elements, and Leslie McAdam’s Mixed Motives, which explores a provocative age-gap relationship. These varied narratives underscore the anthology’s broad representation of queer experiences, from humorous and lighthearted to emotionally charged and complex.
What sets Heart2Heart apart in the crowded romance landscape is its dedication to community impact. Each volume donates proceeds to LGBTQ+ charities such as The 519, Black Pride YYC, and the Queer & Trans Health Collective, ensuring the stories not only entertain but also contribute tangibly to queer wellbeing and visibility. This philanthropic aspect adds an extra layer of meaning to readers’ enjoyment and supports the ongoing celebration and protection of LGBTQ+ love stories year-round. Source: Noah Wire Services