Picture a Michigan-born storyteller who brought slow-burn sapphic romance to the mainstream with a single photograph on a Hollywood red carpet—meet Meryl Wilsner! This USA Today bestselling author has captured hearts with their inclusive, queer-focused love stories, weaving happily-ever-afters for women who love women. With a knack for crafting tension so delicious it’ll make you yell 'Just kiss already!', Wilsner’s work is a vibrant addition to contemporary romance.
From their debut novel to their latest releases, Wilsner’s stories resonate with readers craving authentic LGBTQ+ representation. Their unique voice, blending humor, heart, and heat, has made them a rising star in a genre hungry for diversity. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this non-binary author who’s redefining romance.
The Making of Meryl Wilsner
Born in Michigan, Meryl Wilsner grew up with a passion for storytelling that sparked in childhood. By third grade, they were typing short stories on a clunky desktop computer, a habit encouraged by their parents. After stints in Portland, Oregon, and Jackson, Mississippi, Wilsner returned to the Mitten State, where they now live with their wife. Their love for all four seasons, button-down shirts, and the quirky way giraffes run infuses their work with a playful, relatable charm.
Wilsner’s journey to romance writing wasn’t straightforward. Initially hesitant about the genre due to societal stigma, they discovered their calling in queer romance, inspired by the need for happy endings for queer women. This realization, coupled with their lifelong writing habit, led to a career that’s as heartfelt as it is groundbreaking.
Meryl Wilsner’s Unforgettable Stories
Wilsner’s debut, Something to Talk About (2020), set the stage with a slow-burn romance between Hollywood showrunner Jo Jones and her assistant Emma Kaplan. A red-carpet photo sparks dating rumors, leading to a deliciously angsty love story that tackles workplace dynamics and #MeToo issues. Critics praised its authentic characters and vibrant Hollywood setting, with NPR naming it one of 2020’s best books.
Their sophomore novel, Mistakes Were Made (2022), turned up the heat with a spicy, age-gap romance between a college senior and her friend’s mom. Dubbed 'the MILF book' by Wilsner, it earned a spot on the Washington Post’s 10 Best Romance Novels of 2022 for its bold, bisexual-heavy narrative. Cleat Cute (2023) followed, a rivals-to-lovers rom-com about soccer teammates, blending humor and heart for World Cup vibes. Their latest, My Best Friend’s Honeymoon (2025), explores a non-refunded Caribbean trip turned sapphic love story.
Wilsner’s style is a masterclass in tension, whether through aching slow burns or fiery flings. Their stories center queer women—often bisexual or lesbian—with rich identities, from Jewish to Chinese-American leads. By alternating perspectives and weaving in themes like consent and representation, Wilsner crafts romances that feel both escapist and deeply real.
Why Meryl Wilsner Matters
Meryl Wilsner’s impact lies in their commitment to queer joy. As the first to publish a queer female romance in print with Berkley Books, they’ve paved the way for more inclusive stories in mainstream publishing. Their work offers a safe space for queer readers, proving that love stories can be fun, sexy, and empowering without tragedy. Wilsner’s growing community of fans and peers, including authors like Ashley Herring Blake, reflects their role in expanding sapphic fiction.
Beyond books, Wilsner’s influence extends to audio dramas, like their 2024 Dipsea series, and upcoming TV adaptations. Their authentic portrayal of queer identities—especially non-binary and plus-size characters—challenges stereotypes and broadens romance’s scope, making them a vital voice in modern literature.
About Meryl Wilsner
- Born: Michigan, USA
- Key Works: Something to Talk About, Mistakes Were Made, Cleat Cute, My Best Friend’s Honeymoon
- Notable Awards: USA Today Bestseller, NPR Best Book of 2020, Washington Post’s 10 Best Romance Novels of 2022
- Fun Fact: Loves Hawaiian shirts and the way giraffes run
Ready to swoon? Snag Something to Talk About and dive into Meryl Wilsner’s world of slow-burn sapphic romance!