McCoy, Taj: - Oakland-born law grad Taj McCoy is committed to championing stories that include Black and multiracial women of color, plus-size protagonists, Black love, Black joy, and strong senses of sisterhood and familial bonds. Taj started writing as a small child, enjoying her first publications in elementary school. When she's not writing, Taj may be on Twitter boosting other marginalized writers, practicing yoga, sharing recipes, or cooking private supper club meals for close friends.

Heron, Farah: - Farah Heron writes romantic comedies for adults and teens full of huge South Asian families, delectable food and, most importantly, brown people falling stupidly in love. Her books have been named as best books of the year by CBC Books, USA TODAY and NPR. She lives in Toronto with her family.

Clarke, Lane: - Lane Clarke has been in love with books since the age of two. Her stories feature Black culture and bighearted characters with self-doubts and big dreams, who--with a little laughter and good friends--can accomplish anything. She currently lives in Northern Virginia and works as an attorney in Washington, DC.

Reid, Charish: - Charish Reid is a fan of sexy books and disaster films. When she's not grading papers or prepping lessons for college freshmen, she enjoys writing romances that celebrate quirky Black women who deserve HEAs. Charish currently lives in Sweden.

Smith, Sarah: - Sarah Smith is a copywriter-turned-author who wants to make the world a lovelier place, one kissing story at a time. Her love of romance began when she was eight and she discovered her auntie's stash of romance novels. She lives in Bend, Oregon.

Williams, Denise: - Denise Williams wrote her first book in the second grade. That book featured a tough, funny, heroine, a quirky hero, witty banter and a dragon. Minus the dragons, these are still the books she likes to write. After penning those early works, she finished second grade and eventually earned a PhD in education, going on to work in higher education. Denise lives in Des Moines Iowa.