Picture a Manila-born storyteller who weaves romance with heart, humor, and a touch of musical magic—meet Dominic Lim! This Filipino-American author has taken the rom-com world by storm, crafting stories that sing with authenticity and charm. From his acclaimed debut to his drag-infused sophomore hit, Lim’s novels are a love letter to queer joy, Filipino culture, and the power of being unapologetically yourself.
The Making of Dominic Lim
Born in Manila, Philippines, Dominic Lim grew up with a passion for storytelling and music. His childhood was filled with books, melodies, and the vibrant hum of Filipino family gatherings, often punctuated by late-night karaoke sessions. Lim’s love for music led him to earn a Master of Music from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and study at Oberlin Conservatory. A proud member of the Actors’ Equity Association, he performed Off-Broadway and in regional productions, including a memorable stint in Miss Saigon. These experiences shaped his flair for drama and rhythm, which pulse through his writing. Lim began crafting novels as a way to tell joyful, inclusive stories, drawing from his heritage and queer identity.
Dominic Lim’s Unforgettable Stories
Lim’s debut novel, All the Right Notes (2023), is a swoony second-chance romance that hit all the right chords. It follows Quito Cruz, a Filipino-American pianist, and Emmett Aoki, a Hollywood heartthrob, as they reconnect for a charity concert. Praised by USA Today and Entertainment Weekly as a best book of 2023, it blends humor, Filipino food, and slow-burn yearning. Lim’s sophomore novel, Karaoke Queen (2024), is a vibrant rom-com about Rex Araneta, who revives his drag queen persona, Regina Moon Dee, to save a karaoke bar. An Amazon Editor’s Pick, it sparkles with drag culture, family drama, and low-spice romance. Lim’s style is light yet layered, weaving Filipino heritage, queer representation, and music into narratives that feel like a Broadway show—fun, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
His stories stand out for their diverse, relatable characters and celebration of authenticity. Lim avoids heavy trauma tropes, focusing instead on love, community, and self-discovery. Readers are drawn to his witty dialogue, vivid settings like Oakland’s gay bars, and the emotional depth he brings to every page.
Why Dominic Lim Matters
Dominic Lim is carving a vital space in romance fiction, where queer and Filipino voices shine. His novels challenge stereotypes, offering joyful stories that don’t dwell on struggle but celebrate identity and connection. By centering Filipino-American experiences and queer love, Lim inspires readers to embrace their true selves. His work resonates with fans of authors like Casey McQuiston, and his growing acclaim—bolstered by starred reviews and festival appearances—signals a bright future. Lim’s contribution to rom-coms is a reminder that love stories can be inclusive, uplifting, and downright fun.
- Born: Manila, Philippines
- Key Works: All the Right Notes (2023), Karaoke Queen (2024)
- Notable Recognition: All the Right Notes named a best book of 2023 by USA Today, Goodreads, and more
- Fun Fact: Lim is a karaoke enthusiast and once sang in Miss Saigon!
Snag Karaoke Queen or All the Right Notes and dive into Dominic Lim’s joyful rom-com world—your heart will thank you!