11 Books like Call Me By Your Name

Remember the warm, heartfelt embrace of ‘Call Me By Your Name’? If you’ve been yearning for that same kind of soul-stirring connection in your reading, you’re in for a real treat. We’ve handpicked 13 books that capture the essence of longing, love, and self-discovery, just like Aciman’s masterpiece did. These stories delve into the depths of human emotions, taking you on journeys of passion, self-discovery, and unforgettable connections. Whether you’re looking for LGBTQ+ representation or simply a story that tugs at your heartstrings, these novels promise to envelop you in love stories that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Books Like Call Me By Your Name

If you’re seeking books like Call Me by Your Name, have a look at this incredible list of recommendations we have put together for you.

The Last of the Wine (1956)

by Mary Renault

‘The Last of the Wine’ is if ‘Call Me by Your Name’ was set in ancient Greece.

The story is a captivating journey through the life of Alexias, a young aristocrat from Athens, as he matures from adolescence into adulthood. What makes this tale truly special is Alexias’s deep friendship and love for Lysis, a charismatic and rebellious fellow aristocrat. Their connection is the beating heart of the novel, and it’s portrayed with such depth and emotion that it’s impossible not to be moved by their relationship.

Set against the backdrop of the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta, the two friends are drawn into the political turmoil and ideological clashes of their time. The story becomes a riveting exploration of power, politics, and philosophy as they witness the rise and fall of influential figures like Socrates, Alcibiades, and Critias, each of whom leaves a lasting impact on Athens.

Mary Renault’s writing is nothing short of magical. Her descriptions of ancient Athens are so vivid that you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time. You can practically taste the atmosphere, culture, and traditions of ancient Greece as you read.

If you’re a fan of Greek mythology and were swept away by the emotional depth of ‘Call Me by Your Name,’ then ‘The Last of the Wine’ is a must-read for you. It’s a beautifully crafted novel that weaves history, romance, and philosophy into a compelling tapestry, and it’s sure to resonate with anyone who appreciates stories of love, friendship, and the complexities of the human heart.

Enigma Variations (2017)

by Andre Aciman

Enigma Variations, like ‘Call Me by Your Name’ is set in Italy, and so has the same feel. The book is centered around Paul’s story and is divided in 5 parts, each focusing on a different person who has had a significant impact on Paul, representing a different phase in Paul’s life, from adolescence to middle age.

These characters include a childhood crush, a college friend, a lover, a longtime partner, and a final mysterious figure. Through these interconnected stories, Aciman delves into the intricacies of love, passion, and the enigmatic nature of human connections.

As Paul reflects on his relationships and encounters with these individuals, the narrative oscillates between moments of intense desire and yearning, nostalgia, and contemplation. Aciman’s lyrical prose captures the subtleties of emotion, the elusiveness of memory, and the nuances of human connection.

Throughout the novel, music serves as a recurring motif, with references to classical composers and compositions. The title itself alludes to the musical form of variations, where a theme is developed and transformed.

Olivia (1949)

by Dorothy Strachey

Set in the late 19th century, the story follows a young English girl named Olivia, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and awakening during her time at a French boarding school for girls.

When Olivia arrives at the school, she quickly becomes enamored with her headmistress, Mademoiselle Julie, who is charismatic, intelligent, and unconventional. Olivia’s fascination with Mademoiselle Julie soon turns into an intense infatuation, and she finds herself falling in love with her.

As Olivia’s feelings deepen, she becomes aware of a forbidden love affair between Mademoiselle Julie and another teacher, Mademoiselle Cara. This revelation adds complexity to Olivia’s emotions and causes her to question her own desires and societal norms.

The novel explores Olivia’s internal struggle as she navigates her feelings for Mademoiselle Julie and grapples with her own identity. She becomes increasingly isolated, longing for a connection with someone who understands her. Through the lens of Olivia’s experiences, the novel explores themes of love, desire, sexuality, and the limitations imposed by society’s expectations.

The Song of Achilles (2011)

by Madeline Miller

A historical fiction novel, ‘The Song of Achilles’ is a retelling of the events surrounding the Trojan War, focusing on the central characters of Achilles and Patroclus. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of Patroclus, who becomes a close companion and lover to Achilles.

The novel begins with Patroclus as a young prince exiled from his homeland, seeking refuge in the court of King Peleus. It is there that he meets Achilles, the son of Peleus and the sea goddess Thetis. As the two boys grow up together, a deep bond forms between them, and their friendship eventually blossoms into a romantic relationship.

Throughout the Trojan War, Achilles proves to be an unmatched warrior, his skill and bravery earning him a legendary reputation. However, his pursuit of glory and honor blinds him to the consequences of his actions, leading to tragic events that shape the course of the war.

As the conflict unfolds, the bond between Achilles and Patroclus is tested by the challenges and horrors of war. Their love becomes a source of strength and vulnerability, as they navigate the complex web of alliances, betrayals, and divine intervention that define the Trojan War.

The story is a lovely narrative of how love develops and deepens over a lifetime, and also a reminder that even the strongest of loves may be shattered by ego and pride.

Both ‘Call Me by Your Name’ and ‘The Song of Achilles’ share common ground in their exploration of love and desire. In ‘Call Me by Your Name,’ we witness a passionate same-sex romance between Elio and Oliver, while ‘The Song of Achilles’ focuses on the deep connection between Achilles and Patroclus. They also both embrace Mediterranean settings – ‘Call Me by Your Name’ in Italy’s picturesque countryside and ‘The Song of Achilles’ amid ancient Greece’s epic backdrop during the Trojan War.

Boy Erased: A Memoir (2016)

by Garrard Conley

If you loved ‘Call Me by Your Name,’ this book explores the subject of LGBTQ+ from the view of a gay teen undergoing a conversion therapy.

A powerful and courageous memoir, the book recounts Conley’s personal journey as a gay teenager growing up in a conservative environment in Arkansas.

He opens up about his upbringing in a devoutly religious household and the conflicting emotions he felt as he grappled with his sexual identity. When his parents discover his homosexuality, they decide to send him to Love in Action, a Christian-based conversion therapy program that claims to offer a cure for homosexuality. The memoir delves into Conley’s time at the program, revealing the intense psychological and emotional challenges he faced in his desperate attempt to change who he was.

As the narrative progresses, Conley reflects on the damaging effects of conversion therapy, highlighting the trauma, guilt, and shame it inflicted upon him and countless others. He also shares stories of his fellow participants and the struggles they endured, shedding light on the harmful practices and ideologies perpetuated by such programs.

The memoir serves as a call to action, urging society to challenge and dismantle the harmful practices that seek to erase and deny the existence of LGBTQ+ individuals.

Endless Love (1979)

by Scott Spencer

A gripping and emotional tale, ‘Endless Love’ explores the powerful and destructive nature of obsessive love. The story revolves around the intense and tumultuous relationship between two teenagers, David Axelrod and Jade Butterfield.

David, a working-class young man from a troubled family, becomes infatuated with Jade, a beautiful and privileged girl from a wealthy background. Their initial encounter sparks an instant connection, and they quickly fall deeply in love. However, their love is not easily accepted by Jade’s parents, who view David as beneath their social status.

As their love deepens, they find themselves entangled in a web of emotions, family expectations, and societal pressures. Their love is the kind that knows no boundaries, and it forces them to confront difficult choices and navigate a world that often doesn’t understand or accept the intensity of their feelings.

“Endless Love” and “Call Me by Your Name” have some striking similarities. Both novels revolve around intense, forbidden love stories involving young characters. They take us on a journey through the intricacies of love, desire, and the quest for self-identity, all set against the backdrop of beautifully described settings that add depth to the emotions.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe (2012)

by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

A coming-of-age novel, the story takes place in El Paso, Texas, during the late 1980s and follows the lives of two teenage boys, Aristotle “Ari” Mendoza and Dante Quintana.

Ari, a quiet and introspective 15-year-old, feels lost and disconnected from the world around him. He is struggling with his identity, his family dynamics, and the emotional scars left by his older brother’s imprisonment. Ari’s life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Dante, an outgoing and intelligent boy who shares Ari’s Mexican-American heritage but has a more open and optimistic perspective on life.

As Ari and Dante spend time together, a deep friendship develops between them. They bond over their shared love for literature, art, and philosophical discussions.

Throughout the novel, the boys confront various issues, including societal expectations, sexuality, and cultural identity. Ari grapples with his emotions and suppressed feelings, particularly his growing romantic attraction towards Dante. Dante, on the other hand, is more self-assured and openly embraces his gay identity. Their contrasting experiences lead to a journey of understanding, acceptance, and personal growth. As the boys explore their identities, they also encounter personal tragedies and moments of reckoning.

Both the books delve into the coming-of-age experiences of young characters, where themes of sexuality and self-discovery take center stage.

What’s striking is how both novels sensitively navigate the characters’ journeys to understand their own desires, often amidst the backdrop of societal expectations. Moreover, the authors skillfully weave these stories into beautifully described settings—the Southwestern United States in “Aristotle and Dante” and the captivating Italian countryside in “Call Me by Your Name.” In fact, these settings become almost characters themselves.

Lie with Me (2017)

by Philippe Besson

Originally published in French, ‘Lie With Me’ is set in the 1980s in a small rural town of France. The protagonist, who remains unnamed throughout the book, reminisces about his first love and a secret relationship he had with a fellow student named Thomas Andrieu.

The narrator is a quiet and introspective young boy and feels like an outsider in his community. However, everything changes when he meets Thomas, an attractive and charismatic boy who captivates him from the moment they meet. As their friendship grows, their connection deepens into a passionate and forbidden romance.

In the conservative and homophobic environment of their town, the boys must hide their relationship from the world. Their secret love affair becomes a source of solace and happiness for them, allowing them to escape the harsh realities of their daily lives. They create their own private world, finding comfort in their shared experiences, intimate conversations, and stolen moments of affection.

However, as they approach adulthood and prepare to leave for college, the weight of societal expectations and fear of exposure starts to take its toll on their relationship. The fear of the impending separation loom over them, causing strain and uncertainty.

The relationships in ‘Call Me by Your Name’ and ‘Lie with Me’ are both characterized by the secrecy and the inherent challenges of societal expectations and norms. Both novels evoke powerful and raw emotions, delving into the depths of love, heartbreak, and the vulnerabilities that come with intimacy.

Maurice (1971)

by E.M. Forster

Set in early 20th-century England, it explores themes of homosexuality, class, and self-discovery. The story revolves around Maurice Hall, a young man from an upper-middle-class background who gradually becomes aware of his same-sex attraction.

The novel begins with Maurice as a student at Cambridge University, where he experiences a sense of isolation and confusion regarding his sexuality. He meets Clive Durham, an intellectual and fellow student, with whom he develops a close friendship that eventually turns into a romantic relationship. However, societal pressures and the fear of social ostracization cause Clive to end the relationship, choosing to conform to societal expectations and marry a woman.

After the breakup, Maurice feels devastated and struggles to accept his homosexuality. Maurice’s life takes a turn when he meets Alec Scudder, a gamekeeper on Clive’s family estate. The two men form a discreet relationship, engaging in secret meetings and grappling with the complexities of their desires.

As Maurice’s relationship with Alec deepens, he experiences a newfound sense of freedom and acceptance. He begins to embrace his identity, rejecting the shame and secrecy that society imposes on him.

Like ‘Call Me by Your Name,’ this novel also explores the challenges faced by individuals in a society that discriminates against same-sex relationships and the personal journey of self-acceptance and love that Maurice undertakes.

Giovanni’s Room (1956)

by James Baldwin

Another novel in the list set in 1950s Paris, the story revolves around David, an American expatriate who grapples with his identity, sexuality, and the expectations of society.

The novel opens with David, engaged to a woman named Hella, living in Paris and reflecting on his past. He recalls his relationship with Giovanni, a young Italian bartender, with whom he had a passionate affair. However, as the story progresses, David struggles with his own internal conflicts, particularly his denial of his homosexual desires due to societal pressures and the fear of alienation.

As David’s engagement to Hella progresses, he attempts to suppress his true feelings and conform to the norms of society. This leads him to separate from Giovanni and push him away. Ultimately, Giovanni becomes involved with another man, and their relationship becomes strained.

If you liked ‘Call Me by Your Name’ for its setting and backdrop, ‘Giovanni’s Room’ is also set in a captivating location that contributes to the overall mood and atmosphere of the story. ‘Giovanni’s Room’ takes place in 1950s Paris, while ‘Call Me by Your Name’ is set in 1980s Italy. The rich descriptions of these settings add depth and vibrancy to the narratives.

The Brothers Bishop (2005)

by Bart Yates

The story follows two brothers, Nathan and Tommy Bishop, who share a deep bond but are starkly different in temperament and life choices.

Nathan Bishop is an openly gay man living in a small conservative town. He has found love with his partner, Roy, and together they adopt a troubled young boy named Daniel. Nathan’s journey revolves around accepting his sexuality, confronting prejudice and homophobia, and fighting for the happiness and well-being of his unconventional family.

On the other hand, Tommy Bishop is a high school basketball star and the epitome of the all-American athlete. He embodies the town’s expectations of masculinity and lives a seemingly perfect life, complete with a beautiful girlfriend named Maggie. However, beneath Tommy’s confident facade lies a deep secret that threatens to unravel his carefully constructed image.

As the narrative unfolds, Nathan and Tommy’s paths converge when Daniel’s birth mother, Mary, reappears in their lives. Mary, a drug addict, struggles to regain custody of Daniel, leading to a tense legal battle. This unexpected turn of events forces both brothers to confront their own fears, secrets, and desires.

“Call Me by Your Name” and “The Brothers Bishop” may have different stories, but they share some important themes and qualities. Both novels are coming-of-age tales where characters’ growth and complex family dynamics are central to the narrative. They grapple with their feelings, desires, and evolving identities while navigating the intricacies of relationships.

Conclusion to Books like Call Me By Your Name

And that concludes the list for books like Call Me by Your Name!

As we come to the end of our literary journey, I hope you’ve discovered a new world of emotions within these 11 heartfelt books like Call Me By Your Name, each echoing different tender sentiments. These stories invite us to relive the enchantment of first love, the intricacies of self-discovery, and the beauty of human connection. Whether you’re yearning to revisit the passionate summer romance of Elio and Oliver or simply eager to explore a diverse array of evocative love tales, our recommendations have something to offer everyone.

So, pick up one of these novels, dive into their pages, and let their captivating narratives sweep you away. Love, as these stories remind us, knows no boundaries, and neither do these unforgettable journeys. Wishing you endless hours of heartfelt reading and the joy of discovering love in its many forms. Happy reading!

However, if you want even more books like Call Me by Your Name, you should consider-

• Confessions of a Mask by Yukio Mishima
• Tin Man by Sarah Winman
• The Lover by Marguerite Duras
• What Belongs to You by Garth Greenwell
• Never let me go by Kazuo Ishiguro
• The Last Phone Call From Heaven by Mitch Albom.
• Timeline by Michael Crichton
• Riptide by Douglas Preston
• All the Light We Cannot See – Anthony Doer
• Le Berceau by Julius Eks
• Unbroken by Larry Benjamin
• You and Me by Tal Bauer
• All the Lovers by Harry F Rey
• The Music of the Spheres by Chase Potter
• A Surplus of Light by Chase Connor
• The City and the Pillar by Gore Vidal
• What Belongs to You by Garth Greenwell