Picture a storyteller who spun a heartfelt Hollywood romance that’s got readers swooning—meet Myah Ariel! This American author and educator burst onto the contemporary romance scene with her debut novel, When I Think of You, a tale of second chances and Black joy that’s as vibrant as a Los Angeles sunset. With a knack for inclusive storytelling, Myah blends her love for cinema and pop culture into narratives that feel like a warm hug from an old friend.
Now based in Los Angeles with her family, Myah’s journey from Arkansas to the glitz of Hollywood informs her authentic, emotionally rich stories. Her background in film studies and journalism, paired with her passion for diverse love stories, makes her a fresh voice in romance—one you’ll want to keep on your radar!
The Making of Myah Ariel
Born in Arkansas, Myah’s early love for movies set her on a path to New York City, where she earned a BA in cinema studies from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. She later snagged an MA in specialized journalism from USC Annenberg, diving deep into the arts and entertainment world. Myah worked in various roles in the film industry, from receptionist to behind-the-scenes gigs, soaking up the Hollywood hustle. A pivot to academia saw her developing journalism and media programs, but her heart stayed with storytelling. As a medical mom and hopeless romantic, she began crafting inclusive love stories that reflect the diverse world she knows.
Myah Ariel’s Unforgettable Stories
Myah’s debut, When I Think of You (Berkley, 2024), is a second-chance romance that follows Kaliya Wilson, a film school grad stuck in a dead-end job, and Danny Prescott, her ex-turned-hotshot director. Their rekindled spark navigates Hollywood’s politics, grief, and Black joy, earning praise for its “explosive chemistry” and “thoughtful vulnerability.” Reviewers call it a fizzy, angsty mash-up of Bolu Babalola and Kennedy Ryan, with a slow-burn love story that’s pure Hollywood magic.
Her follow-up, No Ordinary Love (Berkley, 2025), dives into celebrity romance, where popstar Ella Simone and MLB player Miles Westbrook turn a PR stunt into something real. Critics rave about the “sizzling chemistry” and Myah’s knack for weaving big emotions into fame’s chaos. Her style—vivid, heartfelt, and layered with pop culture nods—tackles themes like discrimination, privilege, and personal growth, all while keeping the romance front and center.
Myah’s stories stand out for their inclusive lens, especially for Black women chasing big dreams. Her characters are flawed yet lovable, and her plots balance humor, heart, and social commentary, making her a must-read for romance fans craving depth with their swoons.
Why Myah Ariel Matters
Myah Ariel is more than a romance author—she’s a voice for inclusivity in a genre that’s often been too narrow. Her focus on Black love stories, paired with sharp critiques of Hollywood’s power structures, resonates with readers seeking authentic representation. Her debut’s success, lauded by authors like Kennedy Ryan and Farrah Rochon, signals a rising star who’s reshaping contemporary romance. By centering Black joy and resilience, Myah inspires readers to dream big and love boldly, proving that everyone deserves a happily-ever-after.
- Key Works: When I Think of You (2024), No Ordinary Love (2025)
- Hometown: Originally from Arkansas, now in Los Angeles
- Education: BA from NYU Tisch, MA from USC Annenberg
Snag When I Think of You and dive into Myah Ariel’s sparkling world of romance, where love conquers all with a side of Hollywood glitz!