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Get ready to spice up your reading list! In honor of AAPI Heritage Month, we’re spotlighting 24 Asian romance authors you need to read. But let’s be real—reading diversely isn’t just a once-a-year gig. It’s about keeping your bookshelf as vibrant and varied as possible all year round. We’ve got everything from swoon-worthy contemporary romances to steamy historical love stories, all penned by talented Asian writers. Trust us, your TBR pile will thank you! Ready to fall in love with these incredible voices? Let’s dive in!

And if you want to read more diverse books, we’ve got lots of book recommendations!

Our favorite Asian romance authors

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

In How to End a Love Story, Yulin Kuang spins a compelling tale of two writers, Helen and Grant, who are reunited after thirteen years following a tragic accident that turned their lives upside down. Now working together on the TV adaptation of Helen’s novel, they must navigate unresolved issues and undeniable chemistry. Helen, a bestselling author battling imposter syndrome, and Grant, a popular screenwriter trying to move on, find themselves drawn back into each other’s lives. Kuang balances emotional depth with humor, making this enemies-to-lovers forbidden romance both engaging and heartfelt.

Grab this book on Amazon or read our How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang book review

On the Surface by Kate Willoughby

On the Surface by Kate Willoughby delivers a hot and heartfelt sports romance. NHL player Tim Hollander has faced a tough few years—losing his daughter, a divorce, and a trade to the San Diego Barracudas. Enter Erin Collier, a pediatric nurse who doesn’t care about hockey until Tim comes to her rescue at a PR event. Their chemistry is undeniable, and despite the rapid pace of their romance, Tim and Erin find balance in each other. Willoughby masterfully blends real-life challenges with just the right amount of steam, making this a perfect read for fans of fast-paced, mature sports romances.

Grab this book on Amazon or read our On the Surface by Kate Willoughby book review

Bared to You by Sylvia Day

In Bared to You, Sylvia Day introduces readers to the intense and tumultuous relationship between Eva Trammell and Gideon Cross. Eva, new to Manhattan and eager to start fresh, quickly finds herself entangled with Gideon, a powerful and enigmatic billionaire. Both haunted by abusive pasts, their connection is electric and immediate, but also fraught with challenges. Gideon’s possessiveness and troubled history clash with Eva’s determination to assert her independence. This steamy, emotional rollercoaster is perfect for fans of Fifty Shades of Grey but offers deeper character development and more polished writing. Day’s ability to blend raw passion with poignant emotional struggles makes this a must-read for erotic romance fans.

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Listen to the podcast! We picked our favorite 10 romance books by Asian authors to recommend, click here to listen to the audio. Or if you prefer, watch the video!

The Year of Cecily by Lisa Lin

In The Year of Cecily, Lisa Lin delivers a heartwarming story about second chances and new beginnings. San Francisco attorney Cecily Chang heads home to Sunset Park, Brooklyn, for the Lunar New Year, armed with a list of resolutions to reboot her life. However, family gatherings bring chaos, meddling relatives, and the one person she hoped to avoid: Jeffrey Lee. Ten years ago, Jeffrey ended things with Cecily, believing it was best for her. Now a successful screenwriter, he’s determined to win her back. Despite Cecily’s resistance to signs and second chances, Jeffrey is convinced they can write a new, happier ending together. This delightful romance captures the essence of family, tradition, and the hope of rekindled love.

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Booked on a Feeling by Jayci Lee

Booked on a Feeling by Jayci Lee is a heartwarming friends-to-lovers romance with a delightful mix of career dilemmas and personal growth. Lizzy Chung, a conflict-averse lawyer on the verge of making partner, suffers a panic attack and decides to take an extended break in Weldon, California. There, she reconnects with her best friend of twenty years, Jack Park. As they renovate a small-town bookstore together, old feelings resurface and new dreams emerge. Lizzy must choose between returning to her high-pressure lawyer life in LA or embracing a new path with Jack in Weldon. Lee beautifully handles themes of family expectations, career changes, and the courage to follow one’s heart, making this more than just a fluffy romance.

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Booked on a Feeling by Jayci Lee is available on Kindle Unlimited. For a list of romance books by Asian authors available on Kindle Unlimited, click here.

The Donut Trap by Julie Tieu

In The Donut Trap, Julie Tieu crafts a charming romantic comedy centered on Jasmine Tran, who finds herself back at her parents’ struggling donut shop after college. Caught in a cycle of donuts, Netflix, and sleep, Jasmine feels the pressure to help her family while figuring out her own future. Things get interesting when her old college crush, Alex Lai, reappears, bringing both hope and complications. While it does have a sweet and endearing romance, this story leans slightly more towards women’s fiction. It focuses on Jasmine’s journey to balance family duties and personal dreams, but with that delightful side of romance.

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Loveboat, Taipei by Abigail Hing Wen

Loveboat, Taipei by Abigail Hing Wen is a vibrant, rebellious tale of romance and self-discovery set against the backdrop of a summer program in Taiwan. Ever Wong’s plans for a strict educational experience are upended when she discovers “Loveboat,” a no-holds-barred summer camp where rules are bent, and adventures abound. Ever, secretly passionate about dance despite her parents’ medical ambitions for her, finds herself entangled with fellow students who each harbor their own secrets. Among them are Rick Woo, the seemingly perfect Yale-bound prodigy, fashion-obsessed Sophie Ha, and the enigmatic Xavier Yeh. This summer promises unexpected twists and unforgettable memories as Ever navigates love, friendship, and her own identity.

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Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean

Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean is a delightful blend of Princess Diaries and Crazy Rich Asians, offering a sweet and captivating story about self-discovery and belonging. Izumi Tanaka, a Japanese American girl from California, feels out of place until she discovers her father is the Crown Prince of Japan. Thrust into a world of royalty, Izumi navigates the complexities of her new identity, learning to balance her American upbringing with Japanese traditions. The romance with her grumpy bodyguard adds charm. Izumi’s journey is both heartwarming and humorous, making this a feel-good, fast read perfect for those seeking a lighthearted escape.

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Seoulmates by Susan Lee

In Seoulmates, Susan Lee weaves a swoon-worthy young adult romance that will tug at your heartstrings. Hannah Cho’s perfectly planned summer falls apart when her boyfriend dumps her, right before their senior year. To complicate matters, her childhood best friend turned K-drama star, Jacob Kim, returns to town, stirring up old feelings. As they reconnect, Hannah must navigate her identity struggles and the resurgence of emotions for Jacob. The story beautifully blends themes of friendship, love, and cultural identity, with plenty of K-pop and K-drama references that fans will adore. This heartfelt journey of rediscovery and romance makes for a delightful summer read.

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Olivia and the Masked Duke by Grace Callaway

Olivia and the Masked Duke by Grace Callaway kicks off a captivating historical romance series with a mix of mystery, adventure, and steamy romance. Lady Olivia McLeod, the spirited daughter of a duke, has long harbored a secret crush on Ben Wodehouse, the notorious Duke of Hadleigh who once saved her life. Now a debutante with a passion for solving mysteries, Livy joins a covert investigative agency under the guise of a charity. As she delves into a deadly case, she finds herself closer to Ben, who is haunted by his tortured past and seeking redemption. Despite their age difference and her being the daughter of his friend, their chemistry is undeniable. This friends-to-lovers, age-gap romance is filled with perilous secrets and forbidden desires that make for a thrilling read.

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The Duchess War by Courtney Milan

Courtney Milan’s The Duchess War introduces readers to Miss Minerva Lane, a quiet wallflower with a scandalous past she’s desperate to keep hidden. When Robert Blaisdell, the Duke of Clermont, arrives in town, he quickly sees through her disguise. Both harboring secrets, Minnie and Robert find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other. Robert, flirtatious and idealistic, is determined to uncover Minnie’s true self, while Minnie, having known humiliation and repression, gradually reveals her feisty side. Their banter and chemistry are delightful, but the story takes a deeper turn with significant betrayals that test their relationship. This well-researched and engaging romance will make you laugh, cry, and root for these two broken souls finding love and healing together.

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Not Quite a Husband by Sherry Thomas

In Not Quite a Husband, Sherry Thomas delivers a compelling historical romance set against the backdrop of colonial India. This second-chance romance follows Bryony Asquith, a passionate surgeon, and her ex-husband, Leo Marsden, who seeks to win her back. Their marriage, annulled due to youthful mistakes, left unresolved feelings simmering beneath the surface. Leo travels to India to find Bryony and bring her back to London. This beautifully written story will captivate readers with its rich setting and intense romantic tension.

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Cherish Hard by Nalini Singh

Nalini Singh’s Cherish Hard is a captivating start to the Hard Play series, introducing us to Sailor Bishop, a dedicated young landscaper, and Ísa Rain, a woman striving to forge her own path. Years after a fleeting encounter at a college party, Sailor and Ísa’s paths cross again, igniting a sizzling romance. Singh masterfully blends genuine character development with steamy, heart-melting moments. Sailor’s determination to build his business and Ísa’s quest for self-acceptance and independence create a relatable and engaging dynamic. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their journey is both realistic and swoon-worthy. Fans of contemporary romance will find this story irresistible.

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Partners in Crime by Alisha Rai

Partners in Crime by Alisha Rai is a thrilling heist romance that pairs high-stakes action with heartfelt emotion. Mira Patel’s life is upended when she reunites with her ex, Naveen Desai, at her aunt’s will reading. What starts as an awkward encounter quickly escalates into a dangerous adventure as Mira and Naveen find themselves on the run from a mafia boss. As they navigate the perilous journey from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, their pasts catch up with them, forcing them to confront old wounds and rekindle their connection. Rai’s ability to blend humor, romance, and suspense shines in this unique story, making it a refreshing departure from typical romance tropes. The complex family dynamics and intriguing secondary characters add depth, ensuring this book is more than just a second-chance love story.

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First Love, Take Two by Sajni Patel

First Love, Take Two by Sajni Patel is a heartwarming and relatable romance that delves into the complexities of anxiety, cultural expectations, and second chances. Preeti Patel, on the verge of securing her dream job as a doctor, is overwhelmed by stress, family pressures, and the search for a place to live. Her situation becomes even more complicated when she ends up sharing an apartment with her ex-boyfriend, Daniel. Despite their painful breakup and their families’ disapproval, the chemistry between Preeti and Daniel is undeniable. Patel brilliantly portrays Preeti’s struggles with anxiety and the nuances of Indian culture, while also highlighting the similarities between Preeti’s and Daniel’s family expectations.

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Hana Khan Carries On by Uzma Jalaluddin

Hana Khan Carries On by Uzma Jalaluddin is a delightful and thought-provoking rom-com that explores important themes while delivering a heartwarming story. Hana Khan, an aspiring radio broadcaster, juggles her dream job with helping her family’s struggling halal restaurant in Toronto’s Golden Crescent neighborhood. Her life takes a turn when a new upscale halal restaurant, owned by the charming yet competitive Aydin, opens across the street. As Hana deals with workplace discrimination and the pressures of her community, she also navigates a blossoming romance with Aydin, filled with witty banter and undeniable chemistry. Jalaluddin’s storytelling shines through in this enemies-to-lovers romance with humor, warmth, and a cast of memorable characters.

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The Bride Test by Helen Hoang

The Bride Test by Helen Hoang is a heartwarming romance that captures the complexity of love and self-discovery. Khai, who believes he’s incapable of feeling emotions deeply due to his autism, is blindsided when his mother brings Esme from Vietnam to be his potential bride. Esme, determined to create a better life for her family, moves to California and works to win Khai’s heart. As they navigate their differences, Esme’s unwavering determination and Khai’s journey towards emotional understanding create a touching and engaging story. Hoang’s writing beautifully blends humor, romance, and the challenges of navigating cultural expectations.

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Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau

Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau is a charming, food-themed romance featuring actor Ryan Kwok and baker Lindsay McLeod. Ryan returns to Toronto after his latest movie flops and meets Lindsay in a literal sweet encounter at her bakery. As they navigate grief, family dynamics, and growing attraction, their journey is filled with humor and heartfelt moments.

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Always Be My Duchess by Amalie Howard

In Always Be My Duchess, Amalie Howard delivers a delightful historical romance reminiscent of Pretty Woman meets Bridgerton. Lysander Blackstone, the Duke of Montcroix, is solely focused on his business ventures until a crucial deal requires him to appear more family-oriented. Enter Geneviève Valery, a former ballerina who saves his life and becomes his fake fiancée. What starts as a business arrangement quickly evolves into real feelings. Lysander’s struggles with social cues add depth to his character, while Geneviève’s strength shines through as she navigates her new role.

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Dating Dr. Dil by Nisha Sharma

Dating Dr. Dil by Nisha Sharma is a fun, modern rom-com inspired by Taming of the Shrew. Kareena Mann is on a tight timeline to find a fiancé to save her family home, while Dr. Prem Verma, a cardiologist and host of The Dr. Dil Show, needs to fix his reputation after a public argument with Kareena goes viral. Their solution? A fake engagement orchestrated by their meddling families. Despite starting as enemies, their chemistry grows, leading to genuine feelings. Sharma blends humor, cultural expectations, and steamy romance, creating a compelling story with well-developed characters.

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The Stand-In by Lily Chu

In The Stand-In, Lily Chu delivers a delightful rom-com filled with glamour and heart. Gracie Reed’s life takes a dramatic turn when she’s mistaken for a famous Chinese actress, Wei Fangli. Fired from her job and in desperate need of money for her mother’s care, Gracie accepts an unexpected offer to be Wei’s stand-in. Enter Sam Yao, the handsome yet infuriating actor who must accompany her. As Gracie steps into a world of luxury, she finds herself grappling with her growing attraction to Sam and the complexities of her double life. Chu’s exploration of identity and romance is both hilarious and poignant, making this enemies-to-lovers romance a standout.

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Love, Chai and Other Four-Letter Words by Annika Sharma

In Love, Chai, and Other Four-Letter Words, Annika Sharma crafts a touching romance that beautifully blends Indian and American cultures. Kiran Mathur, raised with the expectation of marrying a respectable Indian man, finds her plans disrupted when she meets Nash Hawthorne, a dedicated doctor with his own family burdens. Despite their different backgrounds, their shared journey of self-discovery and following their hearts forms the core of the story. The diversity and strong female friendships within the Chai Masala Club add depth and authenticity to the story.

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Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto

Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto is a hilarious and outrageous tale of Meddelin Chan, who accidentally kills her blind date and turns to her meddlesome mother and aunties for help. They must hide the body while working at a lavish wedding, leading to a series of comedic and chaotic events. Amidst the mayhem, Meddy’s ex-boyfriend reappears, adding a touch of romance to the mix. This book is filled with laugh-out-loud moments, family dynamics, and cultural references. While the romance is light, the humor and family antics make it a fun and entertaining read.

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The Singles Table by Sara Desai

The Singles Table by Sara Desai brings together Zara Patel, a lively matchmaker, and Jay Dayal, a stoic former military man. Forced into an arrangement to help each other during the wedding season, their initial irritation turns into undeniable chemistry. Despite their differences, they find themselves drawn together in a heartfelt journey of love and personal growth. Desai’s charming characters and engaging plot make this a must-read.

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Read More

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• More diverse books to explore

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