Picture an Oakland-born storyteller who’s redefining contemporary romance with heart, humor, and unapologetic Black joy—meet Taj McCoy! A law graduate turned literary sensation, McCoy crafts vibrant tales that celebrate plus-sized Black and biracial heroines, sisterhood, and love that knows no bounds. Her debut, Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell, launched her into the spotlight, and she’s been charming readers ever since with her fresh, inclusive voice.
With a knack for blending steamy romance and laugh-out-loud moments, McCoy’s stories resonate with anyone who’s ever craved a happily-ever-after that feels real. From bookstore love triangles to friends-to-lovers sparks, her work is a delicious escape. Let’s dive into the world of Taj McCoy and discover why her romances are stealing hearts worldwide.
The Making of Taj McCoy
Born and raised in Oakland, California, Taj McCoy’s love for storytelling bloomed early. As a child, she penned her first pieces, earning publications in elementary school that fueled her dream of becoming a professional writer. A law graduate from Southwestern Law School, McCoy spent over a decade in higher education administration, but her passion for writing never wavered. During her law school years, she joined the Twitter writing community, honing her craft and drafting her first novels.
By 2018, McCoy completed her debut novel, and in 2019, she secured a literary agent, marking a pivotal step toward her publishing journey. Her determination and multifaceted background—blending legal savvy with creative flair—shaped her unique perspective, making her a standout voice in romance.
Taj McCoy’s Unforgettable Stories
McCoy’s debut, Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell (2022), introduced readers to Savvy, a plus-sized Black woman navigating a breakup, a kitchen renovation, and an unexpected romance with a charming contractor. This rom-com, praised for its humor and body positivity, set the tone for McCoy’s signature style: heartfelt narratives with diverse, relatable characters.
In 2023, Zora Books Her Happy Ever After delighted fans with a love triangle set in a DC bookstore. Zora, a Black and Filipina bookstore owner, juggles her crush on a mystery author and his grumpy best friend, delivering a grumpy-sunshine romance packed with wit. That same year, McCoy edited Even If the Sky Is Falling, an anthology of steamy rom-coms sparked by a false meteor shower alert, showcasing her versatility. Her 2024 release, The Good Ones Are Taken, explores a friends-to-lovers arc with Maggie, whose best friend’s confession complicates her search for love, blending humor, heat, and mouthwatering food descriptions.
McCoy’s writing shines through her celebration of Black and biracial women, plus-sized protagonists, and themes of self-acceptance and cultural pride. Her stories weave romance with sisterhood and family bonds, creating worlds that feel both magical and grounded. With a fifth book, The Dating Prohibition, slated for September 2025, McCoy’s star continues to rise.
Why Taj McCoy Matters
Taj McCoy is more than a romance author—she’s a trailblazer normalizing Black joy, fat joy, and intersectional representation in publishing. As a literary agent with Rees Literary Agency, she champions BIPOC and queer creators, widening the door for marginalized voices. Her advocacy, seen in her Fat Like Me podcast and mentorship in programs like Pitch Wars, amplifies body diversity and cultural celebration.
McCoy’s impact lies in her ability to craft empowering stories that resonate with readers seeking authentic, inclusive romances. Her vibrant characters and uplifting messages about self-love make her a beacon in contemporary romance, inspiring readers to embrace their own stories.
- Born: Oakland, California
- Key Works: Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell (2022), Zora Books Her Happy Ever After (2023), The Good Ones Are Taken (2024)
- Notable Role: Literary agent at Rees Literary Agency
- Fun Fact: Co-hosts the Fat Like Me and Better Than Brunch podcasts
Snag Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell or Zora Books Her Happy Ever After and dive into Taj McCoy’s heartwarming, spicy world of contemporary romance! With her next release on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to fall in love with her stories.