Alisha Rai

Hey there! I'm Alisha Rai, and I write steamy, diverse romance novels that probably make my parents glad they don't read English. (Sorry, Mom and Dad!)

Growing up in a close-knit Indian American family, I was that kid who always had her nose buried in a book – usually something I definitely shouldn't have been reading at that age. Romance novels were my escape, but I rarely saw characters who looked like me or shared my cultural experiences. So naturally, I decided to write the books I wanted to read.

Before becoming a full-time author, I worked in everything from software to nonprofits. Those experiences gave me plenty of fodder for writing complex characters navigating modern relationships. And let's be real – nothing beats channeling your workplace frustrations into steamy office romance scenes. It's cheaper than therapy!

I'm known for writing characters who feel real – messy emotions, cultural complications, family drama and all. My heroes and heroines deal with anxiety, family expectations, career challenges, and yes, scorching hot attraction. (What can I say? I believe in writing the whole package.) I love exploring how modern relationships work when you throw in the complexities of different cultural backgrounds, mental health, and the general chaos of contemporary life.

My latest book, "Enemies to Lovers" (coming in 2026), follows a con-woman and a fake FBI agent in a forced-proximity adventure that's part rom-com, part heist story. Think "White Collar" meets "The Hating Game," but with way more cultural flavor and sexual tension that'll make your e-reader spontaneously combust. It's the kind of book where you'll laugh, fan yourself, and maybe learn something about South Asian culture along the way.

When I'm not writing, you can find me binge-watching K-dramas (for research, obviously), stress-baking elaborate desserts (that usually turn out... interesting), or trying to convince my cat that my keyboard is not, in fact, the most comfortable place to nap. I'm also active on social media, where I love connecting with readers and probably sharing too many food pics. (But seriously, follow me if you want to see my latest culinary adventures/disasters!)

My writing philosophy? Romance should be for everyone. I write stories that celebrate love in all its forms, featuring characters of different cultures, body types, and life experiences. And yes, I believe consent is sexy, communication is crucial, and a good grovel scene is worth its weight in gold.

What can you expect from my books? Fierce heroines who don't apologize for taking up space. Heroes who are sexy but actually do the emotional work. Family dynamics that'll make you laugh and cringe in recognition. Cultural elements that are authentic but accessible. And heat levels that'll make you grateful for e-readers because no one can see what you're reading on the subway.

Fair warning: my books might make you crave Indian food, question your dating app choices, or book an impromptu vacation. Side effects may include staying up way too late reading "just one more chapter" and developing unrealistic expectations about how quickly men can actually change. (Hey, it's fiction – we're allowed to dream!)

So if you're ready for romance that breaks boundaries while still hitting all your favorite tropes, pull up a chair, grab your beverage of choice, and let's get reading. And yes, that beverage can totally be a mango lassi. I don't judge.