Embark on a delightful journey into the world of love, laughter, and charming romance with these must-read Black romance authors. Get ready to be enchanted by these talented writers who skillfully craft stories that will make your heart flutter and leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling.
From timeless historical romances that transport you to different eras to contemporary tales filled with quirky characters and hilarious escapades, this list is a celebration of Black romance in all its joyous forms. Each author brings a unique and captivating voice to the genre, creating narratives that are not only heartwarming, but sexy as well!
Whether you’re a seasoned romance aficionado or a newcomer eager to dive into delightful love stories, these authors offer a diverse array of voices and perspectives that will leave you smiling and sighing in equal measure.
Join us as we explore the charming world of Black romance literature, where love takes center stage, and happily-ever-afters are guaranteed. Let the pages of these must-read works whisk you way into a world of love, laughter, and pure romantic bliss!
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Alyssa Cole
Alyssa Cole, a luminary in the realms of romance and thrillers, stands proudly as a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author. Her literary prowess shines through in every word, captivating readers with stories that linger in the heart and mind long after the final page.
Cole’s contemporary royal romcom, “A Princess in Theory,” earned its place among the New York Times’ 100 Notable Books of 2018, a testament to her skill in crafting stories that resonate across diverse genres. Critics from esteemed publications such as the New York Times, Library Journal, BuzzFeed, Kirkus, and Entertainment Weekly have showered her works with praise. Alyssa Cole’s writing, celebrated for its depth and charm, has undeniably earned a cherished spot in the hearts of readers worldwide.
Reluctant Royals Series
Talia Hibbert
With a passion for crafting spicy and diverse romance, Talia Hibbert is a staunch advocate for honest and positive representation of people from marginalized identities. Through her words, she seeks to give voice to those often underrepresented in the literary landscape. Her writing is a celebration of love and diversity, a testament to her commitment to weaving narratives that resonate with authenticity.
In addition to her literary pursuits, Talia’s interests extend to the realms of makeup, a penchant for junk food, and a delightful knack for unnecessary sarcasm. Talia and her literary creations form a harmonious existence, inviting readers into a world where love knows no bounds, and diverse voices take center stage.
Midnight Heat Series
Jasmine Guillory
Jasmine Guillory, a captivating voice in contemporary romance, is celebrated as a New York Times bestselling author whose tales resonate with warmth and charm. With a talent for crafting love stories that reflect the complexities of modern relationships, Guillory has etched her name onto the hearts of readers worldwide. Her novels, including “The Wedding Date” and “The Proposal,” effortlessly blend humor, relatability, and diverse characters, creating narratives that feel both familiar and refreshingly unique.
Beyond her literary achievements, Jasmine is a lawyer, food enthusiast, and advocate for joyful representation in literature. Residing in the Bay Area, she continues to enchant readers with her heartfelt storytelling and remains a beacon of inclusivity in the world of contemporary romance.
The Wedding Date Series
Farrah Rochon
Farrah Rochon has left an indelible mark as a USA Today bestselling author. Renowned for her skill in crafting heartwarming and emotionally resonant stories, Rochon’s works include “The Boyfriend Project” and “The Dating Playbook.” Her narratives, enriched with humor and authentic characters, explore the intricacies of love in the modern world. A three-time finalist for the coveted RITA Award, Rochon’s writing is celebrated for its vibrant storytelling and commitment to diversity.
Beyond her literary achievements, she is a former president of the Romance Writers of America, advocating for inclusivity and recognition within the genre. Residing in Houston, Texas, Rochon continues to captivate readers with her poignant tales of love, friendship, and self-discovery, solidifying her status as a beloved and influential figure in contemporary romance literature.
The Boyfriend Project Series
Alexa Martin
Alexa, an author of romance and women’s fiction, began her writing journey while residing in Green Bay, where her husband, Derrick, played football. Faced with the challenges of motherhood and isolation, she turned to blogging as a creative outlet. Intrigued by the romance genre after the allure of 50 Shades and the captivating storytelling of Kristen Ashley, Alexa penned her debut, “Intercepted,” a labor of love from 2012 to 2016, later refined during Pitch Wars.
Balancing between a penchant for swanky outings and the comfort of home, Alexa’s life is a delightful mix of glamour and leggings. Her writing signature includes mentions of The Real Housewives, sparkle, booze, and endearing hot mess protagonists, embodying the mantra of writing what she knows. Alexa’s charm and wit shine through her tales, making her a relatable force in the literary world.
The Playbook Series
Elise Bryant
Elise Bryant is the NAACP Image Award-nominated author of Happily Ever Afters, One True Loves, Reggie and Delilah’s Year of Falling, and the forthcoming It’s Elementary. For many years, Elise had the joy of working as a special education teacher, and now she spends her days reading, writing, and eating dessert. She lives with her husband and two daughters in Long Beach, California.
Reggie and Delilah’s Year of Falling
Kwana Jackson
USA Today bestselling author and native New Yorker, Kwana Jackson aka K.M Jackson spent her formative years on the A train where she had two dreams: (1) to be a fashion designer and (2) to be a writer. After spending more than ten years designing women’s sportswear for various fashion houses, Kwana took a leap of faith and decided to pursue her other dream of being a writer. A longtime advocate of equality and diversity in romance (#WeNeedDiverseRomance), Kwana is the mother of twins and currently lives in a suburb of New York with her husband. When not writing she can be found on Twitter @kwanawrites, on Facebook at facebook.com/KmJacksonAuthor, and on her website at www.kmjackson.com.
Real Men Knit Series
Denise Williams
Hailing from the Midwest, Denise brings a blend of heartland warmth and urban vibrancy to her writing. Her debut novel, “How to Fail at Flirting,” captured the hearts of readers with its blend of romance, humor, and genuine emotion. As a rising star in the contemporary romance genre, Denise is celebrated for her ability to craft stories that resonate across diverse backgrounds and experiences. With a passion for connection and a commitment to portraying love in all its forms, Denise Williams continues to enchant readers, one heartfelt story at a time.
Kristina Forest
Based in the vibrant city of New York, Kristina infuses her writing with a dynamic blend of urban energy and heartfelt emotion. Her novels, including “I Wanna Be Where You Are” and “Now That I’ve Found You,” have garnered praise for their relatable characters and engaging narratives.
Beyond the pages of her books, Kristina’s passion for storytelling extends into her advocacy for diverse and inclusive representation in literature. Her work stands as a testament to the power of love stories that reflect the rich tapestry of human experiences. Kristina Forest, a rising star in the romance genre, continues to enchant readers with her evocative writing and a commitment to narratives that celebrate the beauty of love in all its forms.
Beverly Jenkins
Beverly Jenkins, a trailblazing figure in romance literature, is celebrated for her groundbreaking contributions to the genre. As a best-selling author, she has masterfully crafted historical romances that spotlight the untold stories of African American history. With a career spanning over three decades, Jenkins has earned accolades for her vivid storytelling and meticulous research.
Known as the “Queen of African American Historical Romance,” she has shattered barriers, paving the way for diverse voices in literature. Beverly’s novels, such as “Indigo” and “Destiny’s Embrace,” transport readers to different eras, blending romance with rich cultural narratives.
A recipient of numerous awards, including the NAACP Image Award, Beverly Jenkins continues to inspire and uplift through her tales of love, resilience, and the triumphs of the human spirit. Her legacy as a prolific author and advocate for diversity in romance remains unparalleled.
Women Who Dare Series
Vanessa Riley
Vanessa Riley captivates readers with her poignant storytelling and rich historical narratives. As a best-selling author, she skillfully weaves tales that delve into the complexities of love against the backdrop of historical events. Vanessa’s novels, such as “Island Queen” and “The Bewildered Bride,” are celebrated for their intricate characterizations and immersive settings.
Beyond her literary achievements, Vanessa is an advocate for diverse representation in romance, carving a space for marginalized voices. Her work has garnered recognition and praise, marking her as a significant force in the genre. Vanessa Riley’s commitment to storytelling, diversity, and historical accuracy continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of romance literature.
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