Picture a storyteller who weaves heartfelt tales of first love and self-discovery, capturing the hearts of teens and adults alike—meet Kristina Forest! A USA Today bestselling author, Forest has carved a niche in young adult and adult romance with her vibrant, inclusive stories. From the dance-filled pages of I Wanna Be Where You Are to the emotional depths of Zyla & Kai, her novels resonate with readers craving authentic, diverse representation.
Born and raised in Lawnside, New Jersey, a historic African American community, Forest’s journey to literary stardom is as inspiring as her characters’ quests for love. With an MFA in Creative Writing from The New School, she balances a day job in children’s publishing while crafting stories that pulse with passion and possibility.
The Making of Kristina Forest
Kristina Forest’s love for storytelling bloomed early. As a child, she dreamed of becoming a choreographer, twirling through dance classes with Michael Jackson’s beats in her heart. But by high school, writing stole the spotlight. A visit from a published author to her creative writing class sparked a realization: she could turn her passion for stories into a career. At Rowan University, she honed her craft with a Writing Arts degree, later diving into children’s fiction at The New School. Her publishing experience gave her a unique edge, offering insights into the industry while she penned her debut novel.
Kristina Forest’s Unforgettable Stories
Forest’s bibliography is a treasure trove of romance. Her debut, I Wanna Be Where You Are (2019), follows Chloe, a determined ballerina chasing her dreams on a road trip filled with hijinks and heart. The New York Times called it “a big-hearted story about being brave enough to go for what you want.” Now That I’ve Found You (2020) blends romance and mystery, as aspiring actress Evie searches for her reclusive grandmother in New York City, finding love along the way. Zyla & Kai (2022), a fan favorite, explores first love and heartbreak between two teens who run away together, earning a starred review from Publishers Weekly.
In 2023, Forest transitioned to adult romance with The Neighbor Favor, a charming tale of shy Lily and her mysterious neighbor Nick, who connect through anonymous emails. Its sequel, The Partner Plot (2024), a Good Morning America Buzz Pick, reunites high school sweethearts in a marriage of convenience that reignites old flames. Forest’s style shines through vivid characters, emotional depth, and themes of second chances, making her stories universally relatable yet distinctly fresh.
Why Kristina Forest Matters
Kristina Forest is more than a romance author—she’s a trailblazer for diversity in literature. Her Black protagonists navigate love, ambition, and identity, offering representation that resonates with underrepresented readers. Her ability to straddle young adult and adult markets showcases her versatility, while her focus on first experiences captures the raw magic of youth. As she continues the Greene Sisters series with The Love Lyric (2025), Forest’s influence grows, inspiring readers to embrace love and chase dreams.
- Birthplace: Lawnside, New Jersey
- Key Works: I Wanna Be Where You Are, Zyla & Kai, The Neighbor Favor, The Partner Plot
- Education: MFA in Creative Writing, The New School
- Fun Fact: She’s a Beyoncé fan and loves turquoise!
Ready to fall in love with Kristina Forest’s world? Grab Zyla & Kai and dive into her heartfelt romance today!