25 Canadian Romance Authors You Need to Read Right Now

Based in Ottawa, Amy Lea is a Canadian romance author known for laugh-out-loud rom-coms filled with relatable protagonists, witty banter, and swoon-worthy chemistry. Her fan-favourite Influencer series, especially The Catch—set on the scenic East Coast of Canada—is a must-read. Amy also writes heartwarming young adult rom-coms, which are just as charming and full of heart. Her next book, The Bodyguard Affair, releases in December—and it’s already at the top of my list.

Based in British Columbia, Bal Khabra writes multicultural, sports-centred rom-coms that are equal parts swoony and fun. She originally self-published her debut Collide, which quickly went viral—earning her a well-deserved book deal. Her romances are packed with diverse representation, athletic tension, and the kind of adorable banter you can’t get enough of. Up next is Revolve, hitting shelves in October, which follows the irresistible romance between a figure skater and a hockey player. Bal Khabra’s books are not to be missed!

Based in Ontario, Becka Mack is known for her steamy and emotional hockey romance series that readers just can’t get enough of. Her lovable characters and addicting slow-burn romance make each book a total page-turner. If you’re into hockey players and heart-melting love stories, Becka’s Playing for Keeps series absolutely belongs on your shelf. Up next is Breathe with Me, the highly anticipated fifth book in the series, releasing this October!

Originally from Nova Scotia, Brynne Weaver has made a name for herself in the world of dark romance with her bold and unforgettable storytelling. Her breakout novel Butcher & Blackbird was originally self-published before going viral, earning it a re-release with a traditional publisher. Brynne’s Ruinous Love trilogy is dark, complex, and emotional, with perfectly placed moments of humour to balance the intensity. If you’re planning to dive in to any of Brynne’s books, be sure to check out the content warnings.

Toronto-based Carley Fortune is the #1 New York Times and #1 Globe and Mail bestselling author of emotional, charming romance novels set against picturesque Canadian backdrops. A former journalist, Carley’s writing is compelling, atmospheric, and always leaves you wanting just one more chapter. She recently released One Golden Summer, the highly anticipated sequel to Every Summer After (my personal favourite—though I truly love them all). She’s already teased that her next novel is coming in 2026, with a title hinted at using just three letters: OPS—and I’m already counting down.

Based in Toronto, Elle Kennedy is a powerhouse in contemporary romance and romantic suspense. She’s known for writing strong, confident heroines, swoony love interests, and stories that cover everything from lighthearted banter to deeper, emotional topics. With an impressive backlist that includes everything from standalone gems like Girl Abroad to fan-favourite series like Off Campus, Elle’s books will keep you busy—and completely hooked—for a long time.

Based in British Columbia, Elsie Silver is the queen of small-town romance—known for her relatable heroines, swoony heroes, and sparkling banter. Pick up one of her books and you’ll fall fast, just like I did. Next up is Wild Card, the highly anticipated finale to her Rose Hill series. She’s also teased a brand-new series—Emerald Lake—coming summer 2026, plus two standalones I’m already counting down to. Not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered with my Ultimate Guide to Reading Elsie Silver’s Books, plus my dedicated guides to Chestnut Springs and Rose Hill.

From Toronto, Farah Heron is a master of slow-burn romance filled with heart, humor, and characters you’ll instantly root for. Her books often spotlight strong South Asian leads and sweet, meaningful love stories that feel both fresh and familiar. In addition to her adult romances, she also writes delightful young adult books like Tahira in Bloom, which is just as charming as it sounds. Up next is A Little Holiday Fling, a festive rom-com releasing in October 2025—perfect for cozying up with during the holiday season.

Based near Niagara Falls in Ontario, Hannah Bonam-Young is a USA Today bestselling author known for her sweet, heartfelt romances that celebrate diversity and real-life love stories. Her books are full of relatable moments, adorable characters, and swoony romance that will have you hooked from the very first page. With a wide range of tropes across her books—from friends to lovers to grumpy/sunshine—she’s a must-read for any full-fledged romance fan. Her next release, People Watching, arrives in September 2025, and I already know it’s going to be a favourite.

Toronto-based Helena Hunting is a go-to author for steamy, hilarious contemporary romances that never fail to entertain. With a massive backlist full of both standalone stories and binge-worthy series, you’ll always have something to reach for. Her fan-favourite Pucked series—a must-read for hockey romance lovers—was just re-released with stunning special edition covers and sprayed edges, making it the perfect time to dive in (or start a re-read!)

Toronto-based Jackie Lau writes some of the sweetest and most charming romantic comedies around. Her latest release, Time Loops and Meet Cutes, gives off major Groundhog Day vibes with heartwarming moments. She’s also written delightful Kobo Originals like The Unmatchmakers, a fun romance set in the heart of Canadian cottage country. If you’re in the mood for cozy, clever, and diverse rom-coms, Jackie’s books are a must-add to your TBR.

Born in Nigeria and now based in Canada, Jane Igharo writes charming, emotionally rich romances that celebrate strong female leads and cultural identity. Her debut novel, Ties That Tether, explores the tension between arranged marriage and modern love, blending heartfelt moments with humour and warmth. Jane’s stories are both uplifting and deeply relatable—perfect for readers who love contemporary romance with real emotional stakes and meaningful representation.

Based in London, Ontario, Jenny Holiday is a romance author who truly does it all. From swoony historicals to contemporary rom-coms, her mix of standalones and series is perfect for readers who love to switch things up. She’s also known for writing heartfelt holiday romances—like the beloved A Princess for Christmas—that bring all the cozy, festive feels. If you’re looking for variety with heart and heat, Jenny’s books are a great place to start.

From just outside of Toronto, K.A. Tucker writes emotional and gripping romance across genres—including contemporary, romantic suspense, and even a touch of paranormal. Her books always deliver captivating romance with a bit of an edge, making them perfect for readers who love tension and heart. A great place to dive in is her beloved The Simple Wild series, which blends small-town charm, emotional growth, and a slow-burn romance that’s impossible to put down.

Vancouver-based Karina Halle is known for her edgy, genre-crossing romances that span everything from dark fantasy to emotional contemporary love stories—and everything in between. I fell in love with her writing when I read The Royals Next Door, and I was so excited when the sequel, The Royals Upstairs, was released. Karina’s books often feature complex, layered characters dealing with real-life issues, all wrapped in romantic tension that keeps the pages turning. If you love unpredictable plots and emotionally charged romance, her books are a must-read.

A prolific Canadian author, Kelley Armstrong has written across nearly every genre—spanning middle grade, young adult, and adult fiction. While she’s best known for her gripping mysteries, gothic romances, fantasies, and thrillers, she’s recently dipped into contemporary romance with a few delightful standalones. Her latest, Writing Mr. Wrong, released in June 2025, is a charming addition to her ever-growing backlist. With four books published this year alone, there’s no shortage of stories to dive into—no matter what kind of romance (or adventure) you’re craving.

Toronto-based Lily Chu is known for her charming romantic comedies featuring strong, smart Asian characters and irresistible love stories. Many of her books feature as audiobooks for Audible Originals, narrated by people like Philippa Soo and John Chu—bringing her witty, heartfelt romances to life in the best way. Her most recent release, Drop Dead, is a perfect pick for fans of the rivals-to-lovers trope, with just the right mix of tension, humour, and heart.

Based in Ottawa, Maggie North is a doctor by day and romance writer by night, crafting emotional and laugh-out-loud love stories that are full of heart. Her books often feature STEM-loving heroines, Canadian settings, and all the adorable details that make romance readers swoon. While she’s one of the newer voices on this list, her writing absolutely stands out. Her most recent release, The Ripple Effect, is a must-read—especially if you love smart romance with equal parts heart and humour.

Canadian author Paisley Hope draws inspiration from her roots to write strong, emotional contemporary romances that pull at your heartstrings. Whether you’re in the mood for small-town charm and rugged cowboys—like in her Silver Pines Ranch series—or craving the intensity of a dark motorcycle club romance in her Soldiers of Bedlam series, Paisley delivers swoon-worthy stories that keep you hooked. She’s also part of the Sky Ridge Hotshots collaboration with Sloane St. James and Danielle Baker, adding even more heat to her already addictive lineup.

Based in Nova Scotia, Rachel Reid writes queer romance that’s heartfelt, steamy, and impossible to put down. Best known for her Game Changers series, her books centre around professional hockey players navigating love, identity, and all the heat that comes with it. Whether you’re looking for swoony standalones or a binge-worthy MM romance series, Rachel Reid is a fantastic choice for readers wanting both representation and serious romantic tension.

Toronto-based Roselle Lim writes beautifully crafted contemporary romances that are full of charm, heart, and just a touch of magic. Her stories seamlessly blend love, family, and culture, with a lyrical storytelling style that makes each book feel like a comforting escape. In addition to her adult romances, she also writes captivating young adult fantasy. If you love heartfelt stories with emotional resonance and vibrant characters, you’ll love Roselle’s books.

Based in Vancouver, Sonya Lalli is known for writing heartfelt romance novels that highlight South Asian characters, their experiences, and their journeys to love. Her most recent romance, Jasmine and Jake Rock the Boat, takes readers on an adventure aboard an Alaskan cruise—filled with unexpected chemistry and second chances. And when you’re in the mood for something with a darker twist, she also writes gripping psychological thrillers under the name S.C. Lalli. Whether it’s romance or suspense, Sonya’s storytelling will keep you turning pages.

If you’re looking for a guaranteed happy ending, Sophie Sullivan is your girl. Based on the West Coast of Canada, Sophie writes heartwarming romances filled with relatable characters, emotional depth, and just the right amount of swoon. Her stories always deliver that feel-good charm readers adore. Up next is her holiday romance, You Make It Feel Like Christmas—and I’m already counting down the days until I can cozy up with it!

Vancouver-based Stephanie Archer writes hilarious, feel-good romance with just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. Her books are full of witty banter, lovable characters, and guaranteed happy endings—basically everything you want in a great romance. No matter your favorite trope—grumpy/sunshine, fake dating, enemies to lovers—Stephanie probably has it covered. Her latest release, Gloves Off, is the fourth book in the Vancouver Storm series and the perfect steamy hockey romance to curl up with.

Toronto-based Uzma Jalaluddin writes sweet, inclusive romance stories that spotlight Muslim-Canadian protagonists and celebrate love, family, and culture. Her novel Hana Khan Carries On was an instant Canadian bestseller, named one of the best romances of 2021 by The Washington Post, and is currently in development as a film with Amazon Studios and Mindy Kaling—how cool is that? Uzma’s writing blends warmth, wit, and heartfelt storytelling in the most charming way, making her books a true joy to read.