June marks Pride Month, a time to celebrate and honor the LGBTQ+ community. To commemorate this occasion, we are showcasing the latest works of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and comics by LGBTQ+ writers in Canada that deserve a spot on your reading list this year.
**A Minor Chorus by Billy Ray Belcourt**
“A Minor Chorus” by Billy Ray Belcourt is a captivating novel that centers on an unnamed protagonist who returns to his hometown, deviating from his academic pursuits. Through a series of conversations, the novel sheds light on contemporary queer and Indigenous experiences. Belcourt’s work was a finalist on Canada Reads 2026, championed by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers. Hailing from Driftpile Cree Nation in Alberta, Belcourt is a renowned writer and academic, with accolades for his previous works like “This Wound is a World” and “A History of My Brief Body.”
**Motherclown by Harriet Alida Lye**
In “Motherclown” by Harriet Alida Lye, readers delve into the story of Elise, who embarks on a journey to Paris to pursue her passion for clowning following her father’s passing. As she grapples with her own struggles, her mother, Catherine, seeks solace in creativity and seeks to reconnect with her daughter. Harriet Alida Lye, based in Toronto, is a versatile author known for her works like “Let It Destroy You” and “The Honey Farm.”
**And Then Again Begin by H. Nigel Thomas**
H. Nigel Thomas’s “And Then Again Begin” is a compelling narrative that delves into the lives of two married men in Montreal, exploring hidden truths and unresolved pasts. Thomas, a distinguished Vincentian Canadian author, has a diverse body of work spanning fiction, poetry, and literary criticism. His literary contributions have earned him prestigious awards, including the Canada Council for the Arts Molson Prize.
**Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid**
“Heated Rivalry” by Rachel Reid is the second book in the Game Changers series, offering a captivating portrayal of the relationship between rival hockey players navigating their professional and personal lives. Rachel Reid, a talented author from Nova Scotia, is acclaimed for her queer hockey romances and has been recognized with the Changemaker Award for the Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Canada.
**A Kiss of Crimson Ash by Anuja Varghese**
“A Kiss of Crimson Ash” by Anuja Varghese unfolds a tale of love, betrayal, and ancient legends, intertwining the destinies of its characters in a mesmerizing narrative. Anuja Varghese, an accomplished writer, is known for her award-winning short story collection “Chrysalis,” showcasing her prowess as a storyteller.
**The Cure for Drowning by Loghan Paylor**
“The Cure for Drowning” by Loghan Paylor is a poignant historical fiction novel that navigates themes of love, loss, and resilience through the compelling journey of its characters. Loghan Paylor, an Ontario-born author, has received critical acclaim for this debut novel, which was celebrated on Canada Reads 2026.
**Three Parties by Ziyad Saadi**
“Three Parties” by Ziyad Saadi follows the story of a queer Palestinian refugee navigating identity and acceptance, set against the backdrop of a transformative birthday dinner. Ziyad Saadi, a Vancouver-based writer, brings a unique perspective to his debut novel, capturing the complexities of queer experiences.
**Is This A Cry For Help? by Emily Austin**
“Is This A Cry For Help?” by Emily Austin is a thought-provoking novel that dives into themes of mental health and intellectual freedom through the lens of a librarian’s personal journey. Emily Austin, an Ottawa-based writer, brings a fresh perspective to her work, exploring complex characters and societal issues.
These remarkable works by Canadian LGBTQ+ writers offer diverse narratives and insights, inviting readers to explore a rich tapestry of experiences and emotions. Each book provides a unique perspective, ensuring a thought-provoking and engaging reading experience for all audiences.