Picture a storyteller who weaves romance with rebellion, crafting love stories that pulse with history and heart—meet Alyssa Cole! This New York Times bestselling author spins tales of diverse love across historical, contemporary, and sci-fi landscapes, blending passion with sharp social commentary. From Civil War spies to modern-day royals, Cole’s novels captivate readers with their emotional depth and fearless exploration of race, identity, and justice.
Born in the Bronx and now splitting her time between the Caribbean’s laid-back vibes and New York City’s hustle, Cole brings a unique perspective to romance. Her commitment to diverse representation has made her a trailblazer, proving love stories can challenge norms and spark change.
The Making of Alyssa Cole
Alyssa Cole was born on August 12, 1982, in the Bronx, where her parents surrounded her with books by Black authors like Octavia Butler. As a child, she’d tweak romance novels’ descriptions with Wite-Out to reflect her own identity, planting the seeds for her inclusive storytelling. Initially a science editor, Cole’s love for romance and pop culture led her to writing. Inspired by blogs like Smart Bitches, Trashy Books, she dove into crafting her own novels, debuting with short stories and novellas that tackled pivotal moments in American history.
Her early career was shaped by her knack for blending romance with historical grit. Participating in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) honed her discipline, helping her transition from short fiction to full-length novels that would redefine the genre.
Alyssa Cole’s Unforgettable Stories
Cole’s bibliography is a vibrant tapestry of genres, from historical espionage to futuristic thrillers. Her Loyal League series, starting with An Extraordinary Union (2017), follows Black spies during the Civil War, blending heart-pounding romance with real historical stakes. The novel, which won the American Library Association’s RUSA Best Romance, showcases Cole’s ability to craft heroines like Elle Burns, whose eidetic memory and courage defy oppression.
The Reluctant Royals series, beginning with A Princess in Theory (2018), reimagines royal romance with diverse, modern characters. Named one of The New York Times’ 100 Notable Books, it follows a prince navigating love and identity. Cole’s thriller When No One Is Watching (2020) tackles gentrification in Brooklyn, earning the 2021 Edgar Award for Best Paperback Original. Her sci-fi romance The A.I. Who Loved Me (2019) proves her versatility, mixing humor and heart in a near-future setting.
Cole’s style is marked by vivid characters, witty banter, and a knack for “competency porn”—heroes and heroines who shine through skill and resilience. Her stories weave love with themes of freedom and justice, making every romance feel like a revolution.
Why Alyssa Cole Matters
Alyssa Cole has reshaped romance by centering Black and queer voices, challenging a historically white genre to embrace diversity. Her advocacy, from convention panels to social media, sparked pivotal conversations, notably in 2019 when she supported author Courtney Milan during a Romance Writers of America dispute over racist tropes. The backlash, with #IStandWithCourtney trending, highlighted Cole’s influence in pushing for inclusivity.
Her novels don’t just entertain—they inspire readers to see love as a force for change. By blending historical accuracy with modern relevance, Cole ensures marginalized voices shine, earning her a devoted global following and critical acclaim from outlets like BuzzFeed and Kirkus.
About Alyssa Cole
- Born: August 12, 1982, in the Bronx, New York
- Key Works: An Extraordinary Union, A Princess in Theory, When No One Is Watching
- Awards: 2021 Edgar Award, 2018 RUSA Best Romance
- Fun Fact: She discovered her own ADHD while writing a character with the condition.
Image: Portrait of Alyssa Cole, smiling with vibrant energy, reflecting her dynamic storytelling.
Image: Alyssa Cole at a book signing, surrounded by her colorful novels.
Ready to fall in love with a story that’s equal parts heart and revolution? Snag An Extraordinary Union and dive into Alyssa Cole’s world of fearless romance!