3 Must-Read Arab American Authors To Read Right Now
Arab American authors have given us some of the most powerful, emotional, and romantic stories across genres—from YA to fantasy to historical romance. In honor of Arab American Heritage Month, we’re spotlighting three books that feature strong characters, cultural identity, and unforgettable storytelling.
Prefer to watch instead?
This post contains affiliate links. That means we receive a small commission at no cost to you from any purchases you make through these links.
Young Adult by Arab American Authors
An Emotion of Great Delight by Tahereh Mafi
Read this if you want:
- Quiet, emotional coming-of-age stories
- Muslim rep in YA contemporary
- Grief, resilience, and hope after trauma
This contemporary YA novel follows Shadi, a hijabi teen struggling with grief, identity, and Islamophobia in post-9/11 America. It’s a character-driven story full of emotion, internal tension, and the quiet fight to reclaim joy. If you’re looking for powerful Arab American books with heart, don’t skip this one.
Historical Romance by Arab American Authors
The Viscount Made Me Do It by Diana Quincy
Read this if you want:
- Non-traditional historical heroines with real skills
- Slow-burn steam + a touch of mystery
- Class tension and cultural identity in romance
Diana Quincy brings Arab heritage into the regency romance world with this mystery-laced love story. Hanna, a skilled bone setter from a foreign merchant family, meets a viscount hunting for answers about his parents’ death. This one delivers steam, secrets, and a heroine who shatters expectations.
Fantasy by Arab American Authors
A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal
Read this if you want:
- Fantasy with vampire politics and heist vibes
- Found family and morally gray characters
- Peaky Blinders or Six of Crows energy
If you love found family, fantasy heists, and underground vampire politics, this one’s for you. Arthie runs a tearoom that doubles as a bloodhouse, and when her empire is threatened, she assembles a misfit crew for a dangerous infiltration. Hafsah Faizal’s Arab-inspired fantasy world is moody and addicting.
More Books by Arab American Authors
Looking for even more Arab American authors to add to your reading list? Check out our Novel Hour Live Show where we dive into literary fiction and other genre titles written by Arab authors across the diaspora.
Read more:
What’s your favorite book by Arab American authors? Drop it in the comments—we’re always building our TBR!
Pin It for Later
Join the Under the Covers Community
- Book Release Calendar
- Book Tropes Book Database
- Reading Under the Covers: Extra Bite – Exclusive Bonus Podcast Feed
- Additional recommendation lists
- Reading wrap-ups and our Bookish Brunch weekly behind the scenes newsletter
- Free downloads (activities, templates and more)
- And much more!