June marks the celebration of Pride Month! In honor of this occasion, we are showcasing the latest works of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and comics by 2SLGBTQ+ authors from Canada that you should consider adding to your reading list this year.
**A Minor Chorus by Billy Ray Belcourt**
In “A Minor Chorus,” written by Billy Ray Belcourt, the novel revolves around an unnamed protagonist who ditches his thesis to return to his hometown. Through a series of dialogues, the narrative sheds light on contemporary queer and Indigenous experiences. Notably, “A Minor Chorus” was a finalist in Canada Reads 2026, championed by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers. Belcourt, a writer and academic from Driftpile Cree Nation in Alberta, has garnered recognition for his literary works, including “This Wound is a World” and “A History of My Brief Body.”
**Motherclown by Harriet Alida Lye**
In “Motherclown,” Harriet Alida Lye tells the story of Elise, who relocates to Paris to pursue clowning after her father’s passing. The novel delves into the complex dynamics between Elise and her mother, Catherine, as they navigate personal revelations and past regrets. Harriet Alida Lye, a Toronto-based author, has penned various works, such as “Let It Destroy You” and “The Honey Farm.”
**And Then Again Begin by H. Nigel Thomas**
H. Nigel Thomas’s “And Then Again Begin” delves into the lives of two married men in Montreal who conceal their relationship from their families in St. Vincent. The novel explores themes of trauma, identity, and secrecy. Thomas, a Vincentian Canadian author with an extensive literary background, resides in Montreal.
**Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid**
“Heated Rivalry” by Rachel Reid narrates the romantic journey between rival hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. As their relationship evolves from casual to profound, they face dilemmas between their love for the game and each other. Rachel Reid, a Nova Scotia author renowned for her queer hockey romances, has received accolades for her works, including the Game Changers series.
**A Kiss of Crimson Ash by Anuja Varghese**
In “A Kiss of Crimson Ash” by Anuja Varghese, the plot unfolds around Taara, the new Queen of Abhaya, betrothed to Prince Garjan despite his affections for another. Anuja Varghese, an acclaimed author recognized for her collection “Chrysalis,” has received prestigious literary awards, including the Writers’ Trust of Canada’s Dayne Ogilvie Prize.
**The Cure for Drowning by Loghan Paylor**
“The Cure for Drowning” by Loghan Paylor is a poignant historical fiction novel that follows Kit McNair’s journey through love and war. Loghan Paylor, an Ontario-born author, has captured critical acclaim for this debut novel, which was longlisted for the Giller Prize and won Canada Reads 2026.
**Three Parties by Ziyad Saadi**
“Three Parties” by Ziyad Saadi portrays the story of Firas Dareer, a queer Palestinian refugee navigating his 23rd birthday dinner to come out to his loved ones. Ziyad Saadi, a Vancouver-based writer, has been shortlisted for the $12K 2SLGBTQ+ emerging writers prize.
**Is This A Cry For Help? by Emily Austin**
“Is This A Cry For Help?” by Emily Austin delves into the life of a librarian navigating personal struggles amidst societal challenges. Emily Austin, an Ottawa-based writer, explores themes of mental health and intellectual freedom in her works.
**Pitiful by Brandi Bird**
“Pitiful” by Brandi Bird delves into themes of depression and eating disorders, offering a poignant exploration of body sovereignty and identity. Brandi Bird, an Indigiqueer writer, has received accolades for her poetry collections, including “The All + Flesh.”
**Colin Gets Promoted and Dooms the World by Mark Waddell**
“Colin Gets Promoted and Dooms the World” by Mark Waddell is a captivating tale of ambition and consequences. Mark Waddell, a writer and educator based in Vancouver Island, explores themes of morality and power in his debut novel.
**As Good a Place as Any by Rebecca Papucaru**
“As Good a Place as Any” by Rebecca Papucaru narrates the journey of Paulina fleeing Chile’s turmoil to pursue her dreams in Toronto. Rebecca Papucaru, a Montreal-based writer, has been recognized for her poetic works exploring themes of culture and identity.
**The Way Disabled People Love Each Other by Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha**
“The Way Disabled People Love Each Other” by Leah Lak