Picture a storyteller who swapped the rolling hills of Pennsylvania for the misty forests of the Pacific Northwest, crafting queer romance novels that sparkle with heart and humor—meet Anita Kelly! A teen librarian by day, Kelly (they/them) weaves tales that celebrate queer love in all its vibrant forms, inviting readers into worlds where joy and self-discovery reign supreme.
With a steaming cup of tea and a love for woodland walks, Kelly has become a rising star in contemporary romance. Their debut novel, Love & Other Disasters, and the charming Moonlighters novella series have earned them a devoted following, proving that love stories can be as diverse as the people who live them.
The Making of Anita Kelly
Born in a small town in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, Anita Kelly grew up surrounded by the quiet beauty of rural life. Their journey to authorship wasn’t a straight path—by day, they work as a teen librarian, fostering a love of stories in young readers. A lifelong romance enthusiast, Kelly found their calling in writing queer contemporary romances that blend humor, heart, and authentic representation. Inspired by authors like Alexis Hall and Tessa Bailey, they set out to create stories where queer characters find their happily-ever-afters.
Moving to the Pacific Northwest with their wife, child, and a three-legged dog with a heart of gold, Kelly found a home that fueled their creativity. The region’s lush landscapes and cozy vibe seep into their work, grounding their stories in a sense of place and possibility.
Anita Kelly’s Unforgettable Stories
Kelly’s debut, Love & Other Disasters (2022), is a delicious rom-com set on a reality cooking show. It follows Dahlia Woodson, a recently divorced woman reinventing herself, and London Parker, the show’s first openly nonbinary contestant. Their chemistry sizzles as they navigate love, identity, and fish taco mishaps, earning praise for its tender exploration of gender and belonging.
The Moonlighters novella series, starting with Sing Anyway (2021), takes readers to The Moonlight Café, a queer karaoke bar where love blooms amid pop tunes and awkward encounters. Another standout, How You Get the Girl (2024), is a sapphic workplace romance set in the world of high school basketball, showcasing Kelly’s knack for crafting relatable, emotionally rich characters. Their latest, Heartwaves (2024), dives into grief and new beginnings in a small coastal town, proving Kelly’s range in tackling complex emotions with warmth.
Kelly’s style is a delightful mix of witty dialogue, steamy yet consent-driven romance, and thoughtful representation. Their stories center queer joy, found family, and the power of self-acceptance, making them a beacon for readers seeking inclusive narratives.
Why Anita Kelly Matters
Anita Kelly’s work is a love letter to the queer community, offering representation that resonates deeply. By featuring nonbinary and diverse queer characters in mainstream romance, they’ve expanded the genre’s boundaries, showing that everyone deserves a love story. Their books have touched readers who see their own identities reflected, fostering a sense of belonging in a world that can feel unwelcoming.
Kelly’s impact extends beyond the page. As an educator and librarian, they champion literacy and inclusivity, while their stories inspire other writers to explore gender-diverse narratives. Their ability to balance lighthearted romance with meaningful themes has made them a vital voice in contemporary literature.
- Born: Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
- Key Works: Love & Other Disasters, Sing Anyway, How You Get the Girl, Heartwaves
- Fun Fact: Kelly’s three-legged dog is a beloved muse!
Snag Love & Other Disasters and dive into Anita Kelly’s heartwarming queer romances—you’ll be smiling with every page!