24 Asian Romance Authors You Should Read
Discover 24 Asian romance authors to read now and all year round. Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with diverse, captivating love stories! Dive into your next favorite romance.
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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. 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 delivers a compelling story about two writers, Helen and Grant, who are reunited after thirteen years following a tragic accident that turned their lives upside down. They have to work together to adapt Helen’s novel for TV and there’s lots of unresolved issues (serious ones!) and undeniable chemistry. This book was a read in one sitting kind of story. The emotional parts mixed with the humor and the compelling chemistry was just so addictive I needed to see these two end up together against all odds. And believe me, the odds were stacked super high.
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
Kate Willoughby should be synonymous with hockey romance. I’m serious. The woman knows hockey and that comes through in her books. In this one we have NHL player Tim Hollander who has had a few tough years. Lost his daughter, a divorce and a trade to the San Diego Barracudas. Erin is a pediatric nurse who doesn’t care about hockey until Tim rescues her at a PR event. This one does a great job at mixing in real life challenges, a good amount of steam, and great side of hockey. If you’re in the mood for adult sports romances and you haven’t added her to your TBR, you have to.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our On the Surface by Kate Willoughby book review
Bared to You by Sylvia Day
I know, I know. Everyone knows Sylvia Day. And her backlist is extensive so you can read just about any genre you want. But I have to highlight one of my favorites. Bared to You is the start Sylvia’s erotic romance series about an enigmatic billionaire and a woman who is eager for a fresh start. Both haunted by abusive pasts and with an electric and immediate connection. This is the perfect rollercoaster of a series for fans of Fifty Shades of Grey, but in my opinion with so much deeper character development and polished writing.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Bared to You by Sylvia Day book review
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 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. This delightful romance captures the essence of family and tradition.
Booked on a Feeling by Jayci Lee
Jayci Lee writes heartwarming romances. Booked on a Feeling is a friends to lovers romance. Lizzy Chung, a 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. If you like books about books, then you’ll feel right at home with this one.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Booked on a Feeling by Jayci Lee book review
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 delivers a charming romantic comedy about 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 a delightful side of romance.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The Donut Trap by Julie Tieu book review
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, each with their own secrets. Among them are Rick Woo, the seemingly perfect Yale bound prodigy, fashion obsessed Sophie Ha, and the enigmatic Xavier Yeh. Ever has to navigate love, friendship, and her own identity.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Loveboat, Reunion by Abigail Hing Wen book review
Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean
Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean is a delightful blend of Princess Diaries and Crazy Rich Asians, with this sweet and captivating story about self discovery and belonging. I was enamored by this story from page one. 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 cute charm to the story. Izumi’s journey is both heartwarming and fun, making this a feel good, fast read perfect for when you need a lighthearted escape.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean book review
Seoulmates by Susan Lee
In Seoulmates, Susan Lee brings 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 if you’re a fan you’ll adore. This makes for a delightful summer read.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Seoulmates by Susan Lee book review
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 age gap romance really makes for a thrilling read.
The Duchess War by Courtney Milan
Courtney Milan is one of my all time favorite historical romance authors. No questions asked. 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 hiding 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 feels like a well researched and engaging romance that will make you laugh, cry, and root for these two broken souls finding love and healing together.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The Duchess War by Courtney Milan book review
Not Quite a Husband by Sherry Thomas
Did I mention Sherry Thomas is another of my favorite historical romance authors? In Not Quite a Husband, one of the classics, Sherry Thomas delivers a compelling historical romance set against the backdrop of colonial India. This is a second chance romance that 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 is a beautifully written story that will captivate you from page one with its rich setting and intense romantic tension.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Not Quite a Husband by Sherry Thomas book review
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Cherish Hard by Nalini Singh
Nalini Singh’s Cherish Hard is a swoon worthy 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 and a romance begins. Singh is a master at blending 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 passionate. If you haven’t tried a Nalini Singh contemporary yet, you’re missing out.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Cherish Hard by Nalini Singh book review
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 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 can blend humor, romance, and suspense in such a fun way. The complex family dynamics and intriguing secondary characters also add depth to the love story.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Partners in Crime by Alisha Rai book review
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.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our First Love, Take Two by Sajni Patel book review
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, that comes with witty banter and undeniable chemistry. Jalaluddin’s storytelling really shines through in this enemies to lovers romance with great humor, warmth, and a cast of memorable characters.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Hana Khan Carries On by Uzma Jalaluddin book review
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang is a 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. When I tell you, this book filled my heart.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The Bride Test by Helen Hoang book review
Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau
Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau is a charming, foodie 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.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau book review
Always Be My Duchess by Amalie Howard
In Always Be My Duchess, Amalie Howard delivers a wonderful 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.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Always Be My Duchess by Amalie Howard book review
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.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Dating Dr. Dil by Nisha Sharma book review
The Stand-In by Lily Chu
In The Stand-In, Lily Chu delivers a 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 one a fun standout.
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.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Love, Chai and Other Four-Letter Words by Annika Sharma book review
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.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto book review
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.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The Singles Table by Sara Desai book review
Read More
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- More diverse books to explore
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