Layna James

State: Texas

Layna James writes sweet, emotionally grounded small-town contemporary romance with a focus on realistic characters, mental health awareness, and heartwarming stories. A romantic at heart, she incorporates diverse characters navigating life’s uncertainties while finding love and healing. Her Fort Bender series—kicking off with Some Kind of Forever, followed by Sunshine with You and Always Will—features tropes like friends-to-lovers, accidental pregnancy, and second chances. Layna balances her creative life in Texas with family responsibilities and a playlist-heavy writing process she leans into for inspiration. Known for her witty banter, character-driven plots, and attention to emotional realism, particularly anxiety and personal growth, she connects with readers on Instagram and via her newsletter. Her debut and follow-up releases have garnered strong reader engagement and built a loyal readership looking for gentle, inclusive romances.

Genres: Contemporary, Humor, Romance

Audiences: Adult