Picture a storyteller who whipped up a delectable queer romance that’s as heartwarming as a fresh-baked croissant—meet T.J. Alexander! This rising star in contemporary romance has captured readers’ hearts with their witty, inclusive novels that blend humor, love, and social consciousness. From their breakout debut Chef’s Kiss to their groundbreaking trans Regency romances, Alexander is redefining the genre with stories that celebrate queer joy.
With a knack for crafting relatable characters and immersive narratives, T.J. Alexander has become a beloved voice in LGBTQ+ literature. Their books don’t just entertain—they spark conversations about identity, love, and community, all while serving up a side of culinary charm. Ready to dive into their world? Let’s explore the life, works, and impact of this queer romance icon.
The Making of T.J. Alexander
Hailing from South Florida, T.J. Alexander’s journey to literary stardom began with a passion for storytelling and a love for baking. They honed their craft at Emerson College in Boston, earning an MA in Writing and Publishing, which sharpened their ability to weave engaging narratives. Now based in New York City with their wife and a jungle of houseplants, Alexander draws inspiration from their queer identity and the vibrant communities around them. Their early life as a queer person in Florida shaped their commitment to writing stories that center marginalized voices, offering readers both escapism and representation.
Alexander’s career kicked off with a bold vision: to create romance novels that reflect the diversity of love. As an amateur baker, they infused their stories with foodie flair, making their debut a recipe for success. Their unique perspective as a trans, nonbinary author fuels their work, blending humor and heart to craft tales that resonate deeply with readers.
T.J. Alexander’s Unforgettable Stories
T.J. Alexander’s bibliography is a feast of queer romance, with each book showcasing their signature blend of wit, warmth, and social awareness. Their debut, Chef’s Kiss (2022), follows Simone, a perfectionist pastry chef, and Ray, a nonbinary test kitchen manager, as they navigate workplace challenges and a slow-burn romance. Praised for its grumpy/sunshine dynamic and authentic representation, it earned accolades like an Indie Next Pick and a spot on TIME’s Best Romance Novels list.
The sequel, Chef’s Choice (2023), dives into a fake-dating romp between trans characters Luna and Jean-Pierre, tackling transphobia with humor and heart. This Lambda Literary Award finalist was lauded for its “urgent and intimate” storytelling by The New York Times. Second Chances in New Port Stephen (2023) brings a holiday rom-com vibe, reuniting exes in a small-town setting, while Triple Sec (2024) explores polyamory with a fresh, inclusive lens. Alexander’s foray into historical romance, A Gentleman’s Gentleman (2025), introduces a trans Regency hero, earning starred reviews for its witty, tender slow burn.
Alexander’s style is a delightful mix of playful banter, vivid characters, and food-as-love metaphors. Their stories tackle heavy topics like workplace discrimination and internalized biases with grace, never sacrificing the promise of a happy ending. By centering trans, nonbinary, and polyamorous characters, they’ve carved a niche in romance that feels both modern and timeless.
Why T.J. Alexander Matters
T.J. Alexander’s impact on romance literature is profound, particularly in amplifying queer and trans voices. Their novels offer representation that’s rare in mainstream publishing, creating space for readers to see themselves in joyful, authentic love stories. By blending rom-com tropes with nuanced explorations of identity, Alexander challenges genre norms and invites readers to rethink love’s possibilities. Their work has garnered critical acclaim, including starred reviews from Library Journal and Publishers Weekly, and a loyal fanbase hungry for more.
Beyond their books, Alexander’s commitment to queer joy inspires a new generation of writers and readers. Their stories remind us that love, like a well-baked dessert, is worth savoring—especially when it’s inclusive and unapologetically queer. As they continue to push boundaries, Alexander is cementing their legacy as a trailblazer in romance.
- Key Works: Chef’s Kiss, Chef’s Choice, Second Chances in New Port Stephen, Triple Sec, A Gentleman’s Gentleman
- Awards: Lambda Literary Award Finalist, Indie Next Pick, Amazon Editor’s Pick
- Hometown: South Florida
- Current Home: New York City
Snag Chef’s Kiss and dive into T.J. Alexander’s deliciously queer world of romance, where love is always the main ingredient!