Picture a queer storyteller from New Jersey who’s redefining the rom-com with heart, humor, and a whole lot of love—meet Timothy Janovsky! Known for his vibrant LGBTQIA+ romantic comedies, Janovsky crafts stories that sparkle with cinematic nostalgia and relatable characters, making readers swoon and laugh in equal measure. His books, like Never Been Kissed and You’re a Mean One, Matthew Prince, are perfect for anyone craving a feel-good escape.
With a knack for blending witty banter, tender romance, and inclusive narratives, Janovsky has carved a unique space in the New Adult rom-com genre. Let’s dive into his journey, from his theater roots to his rise as a beloved author whose stories celebrate love in all its forms.
The Making of Timothy Janovsky
Born and raised in New Jersey, Timothy Janovsky’s creative spark was ignited early on. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in theater and dance from Muhlenberg College, where his flair for storytelling took shape through performance and humor. A self-proclaimed rom-com connoisseur with a playful obsession for young Hugh Grant, Janovsky began writing the queer rom-coms he wished he’d had as a teenager. His early work as a humor writer appeared in outlets like Points in Case and The Broadway Beat, sharpening his comedic voice before he transitioned to novels.
Janovsky’s multidisciplinary background—part performer, part writer—infuses his work with a theatrical vibrancy. Now based in Washington, DC, he channels his love for pop culture and romance into stories that resonate with readers seeking joy and representation.
Timothy Janovsky’s Unforgettable Stories
Janovsky burst onto the literary scene in 2022 with Never Been Kissed, the first in his Boy Meets Boy series. This summer rom-com follows Wren, a film nerd navigating his demisexual identity and a second-chance romance at a nostalgic drive-in theater. Critics praised its heartfelt exploration of first love and queer identity, with Booklist calling it “sweet and swoon-worthy.”
Later that year, You’re a Mean One, Matthew Prince delivered a festive LGBTQIA+ romance with a grumpy protagonist finding holiday cheer—and love—in a small town. Its witty dialogue and emotional depth earned it an AudioFile Earphones Award. In 2023, New Adult blended magical realism with a friends-to-lovers arc, drawing comparisons to 13 Going on 30 for its whimsical take on second chances. Janovsky’s 2024 release, You Had Me at Happy Hour, pairs a grumpy sommelier with a flirty mixologist, tackling neurodiversity and spicy romance with grace.
Janovsky’s style is a delightful mix of humor, heart, and inclusivity. His characters grapple with real issues—mental health, identity, family dynamics—while chasing happily-ever-afters. Pop culture references and cinematic settings, like drive-in theaters and reality TV shows, add a playful layer to his storytelling, making each book feel like a movie you can’t stop watching.
Why Timothy Janovsky Matters
Timothy Janovsky’s impact lies in his ability to make the rom-com genre more inclusive and authentic. By centering queer and neurodivergent characters, he offers representation that resonates deeply with readers who rarely see themselves in mainstream romance. His stories don’t shy away from the complexities of identity or mental health, yet they remain uplifting, proving that love and laughter can coexist with life’s challenges.
With awards like the 2024 ALA Alex Award nomination for New Adult and a growing fanbase, Janovsky is pushing the boundaries of New Adult fiction. His work inspires readers to embrace their own stories, making him a vital voice in contemporary romance.
- Key Works: Never Been Kissed (2022), You’re a Mean One, Matthew Prince (2022), New Adult (2023), You Had Me at Happy Hour (2024)
- Notable Award: 2024 ALA Alex Award Nomination for New Adult
- Fun Fact: Janovsky’s love for 13 Going on 30 inspired the time-bending magic of New Adult.
Snag Never Been Kissed and dive into Timothy Janovsky’s world of queer, quirky, and utterly irresistible rom-coms!