June is recognized as Pride Month, and to celebrate this occasion, we are showcasing the latest fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and comics written by 2SLGBTQ+ authors from Canada. These diverse works are a must-add to your reading list for the year.
**A Minor Chorus** by Billy Ray Belcourt
*A Minor Chorus* by Billy Ray Belcourt is a captivating novel that follows an unnamed narrator who ditches his thesis to return to his hometown. The story unfolds as he engages in a series of conversations that shed light on contemporary queer and Indigenous experiences. This novel was a finalist on Canada Reads 2026, championed by Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers.
Belcourt, a writer and academic from Driftpile Cree Nation in Alberta, is known for his award-winning poetry collection *This Wound is a World* and memoir *A History of My Brief Body*. He currently resides in Vancouver, teaching creative writing at the University of British Columbia.
**Motherclown** by Harriet Alida Lye
In *Motherclown*, Elise embarks on a journey from Niagara Falls to Paris to pursue clowning after her father’s passing. Her mother, Catherine, a widow and empty-nester, follows her to Paris seeking to reignite her creativity. As Catherine tries to share a regretful secret with Elise, their relationship is tested, and they must find a way to understand each other.
Harriet Alida Lye, a Toronto-based author, has penned novels like *Let It Destroy You* and *The Honey Farm*, along with a memoir and a picture book.
**And Then Again Begin** by H. Nigel Thomas
*And Then Again Begin* is the fourth volume of The No Safeguards Quartet by H. Nigel Thomas. This novel delves into the lives of two married men in Montreal who navigate concealing their relationship from their families in St. Vincent. Their story unfolds, revealing unresolved trauma and past struggles that challenge their idyllic facade.
Thomas, a Vincentian Canadian author with a diverse literary background, resides in Montreal and has received prestigious awards for his contributions to literature.
**Heated Rivalry** by Rachel Reid
*Heated Rivalry*, the second book in the Game Changers series by Rachel Reid, explores the romantic relationship between rival professional hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Set against the backdrop of competitive hockey, their secret romance evolves into a deeper connection, forcing them to make a choice between their love for the game and each other.
Rachel Reid, a Nova Scotia-based author renowned for her queer hockey romances, has received accolades for her compelling storytelling.
**A Kiss of Crimson Ash** by Anuja Varghese
*A Kiss of Crimson Ash* narrates the story of Taara, the new Queen of Abhaya, who is betrothed to Prince Garjan but finds herself entangled in a love triangle. As they join forces to stop a power-hungry king, they are aided by an ancient goddess in their quest.
Anuja Varghese, an award-winning author, continues to captivate readers with her storytelling, having won prestigious literary awards for her works.
**The Cure for Drowning** by Loghan Paylor
*The Cure for Drowning* by Loghan Paylor is a historical fiction novel that follows Kit McNair’s journey of self-discovery amidst a love triangle that alters the course of their lives. This debut novel has garnered recognition, including winning Canada Reads 2026.
Paylor, an Ontario-born author based in B.C., has established himself as a compelling voice in Canadian literature.
**Three Parties** by Ziyad Saadi
*Three Parties* tells the tale of Firas Dareer, a queer Palestinian refugee planning to come out during his 23rd birthday dinner, bringing together a diverse group of individuals. However, unexpected challenges threaten to disrupt his plans, leading to a series of revelations and self-discovery.
Ziyad Saadi, a Vancouver-based writer, has crafted a captivating debut novel that sheds light on the complexities of queer identity and relationships.
**Is This A Cry For Help?** by Emily Austin
*Is This A Cry For Help?* delves into the life of a librarian navigating a mental breakdown and societal challenges while advocating for intellectual freedom and the power of libraries. This novel explores themes of grief, healing, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Emily Austin, an Ottawa-based writer, has garnered acclaim for her evocative storytelling and unique narrative style.
**Pitiful** by Brandi Bird
*Pitiful* is a poignant poetry collection that delves into the author’s personal struggles with depression and eating disorders, shedding light on societal prejudices and the quest for self-acceptance. Bird’s introspective poems offer a raw and honest portrayal of mental health challenges.
Brandi