Picture a Vietnamese-American storyteller who infuses romance with cultural vibrancy and stereotype-smashing heroines—meet Thien-Kim Lam! A rising star in contemporary romance, Lam’s debut novel, Happy Endings, was named a Washington Post Romance Novel of the Year, captivating readers with its blend of humor, heart, and sex-positive storytelling. Her tales of Vietnamese characters chasing love and ambition have redefined the genre, making her a must-read voice.
From her Louisiana roots to her trailblazing Bawdy Bookworms subscription box, Lam’s journey is as colorful as her novels. With a knack for weaving cultural authenticity into steamy rom-coms, she’s carving a space for diverse voices in romance literature.
The Making of Thien-Kim Lam
Born and raised in the vibrant Vietnamese community of Louisiana, Thien-Kim Lam grew up surrounded by rich cultural traditions that would later shape her storytelling. A self-described 'recovering Type-Asian,' she channeled her love for creativity into theater, studying costume design and briefly working in the field. Her pivot to writing began with her blog, I’m Not the Nanny, where she explored multicultural parenting as a Vietnamese-American mother raising biracial children. This platform sparked her passion for storytelling, leading her to craft romances that celebrate her heritage.
Lam’s diverse career also includes her role as a certified sex educator, a passion that informs her sex-positive narratives. In 2010, she founded Bawdy Bookworms, a subscription box pairing spicy romances with erotic toys, amplifying marginalized voices in the genre. Her unique blend of cultural insight and playful entrepreneurship set the stage for her literary success.
Thien-Kim Lam’s Unforgettable Stories
Lam’s novels are a celebration of Vietnamese-American identity, blending humor, steamy romance, and cultural depth. Her debut, Happy Endings (2021), follows Trixie Nguyen, a sex toy entrepreneur, as she navigates a second-chance romance with her ex in Washington, D.C. Praised for its wit and inclusivity, it’s a delightful mix of heart and heat.
In Full Exposure (2023), Lam pays homage to her Louisiana roots with a Mardi Gras romance. The story follows Spencer and Josie, whose artistic passions collide in a steamy fling that tests their dreams and desires. Her latest, Something Cheeky (2025), is a friends-to-lovers tale set against a Vietnamese Cinderella rock musical, showcasing Lam’s theater background and her knack for vibrant settings.
Lam’s writing style is accessible yet evocative, with dynamic characters who defy clichés. Her sex-positive approach and focus on diverse, empowered heroines make her stories resonate with readers seeking fresh perspectives in romance.
Why Thien-Kim Lam Matters
Thien-Kim Lam is more than a romance author—she’s a cultural trailblazer. By centering Vietnamese-American characters, she challenges stereotypes and brings authenticity to a genre often dominated by white narratives. Her work empowers readers to embrace their identities and desires, earning her features in NPR, BBC America, and Oprah Daily. As a mentor, she coaches writers of color, fostering the next generation of diverse storytellers.
Her Bawdy Bookworms initiative further amplifies marginalized voices, making romance inclusive and accessible. Lam’s ability to blend cultural pride with universal themes of love and ambition ensures her lasting impact on the genre and its readers.
About Thien-Kim Lam
- Key Works: Happy Endings (2021), Full Exposure (2023), Something Cheeky (2025)
- Awards: Happy Endings named Washington Post Romance Novel of the Year
- Fun Fact: Founder of Bawdy Bookworms, a subscription box for spicy romance lovers
- Passions: Vietnamese culture, sex education, and musical theater
Ready to fall in love with Thien-Kim Lam’s vibrant world? Snag Happy Endings or Something Cheeky and dive into her steamy, stereotype-smashing romances!