Picture a Dominican-American storyteller who whips up romance with a dash of magical realism—meet Yaffa S. Santos! Born and raised in New Jersey, this Sarah Lawrence College graduate has carved a unique niche in the romance genre with her debut novel, A Taste of Sage. Blending her love for cooking and heartfelt love stories, Santos crafts narratives that are as flavorful as a Dominican feast, earning her a devoted following among foodies and romantics alike.
With a knack for infusing cultural pride and culinary passion into her work, Santos’s stories resonate with readers craving fresh, vibrant takes on love. Her journey from a Jersey girl to an award-winning author is as inspiring as her characters’ quests for connection.
The Making of Yaffa S. Santos
Yaffa S. Santos grew up in New Jersey, where her Dominican heritage shaped her worldview. A solo trip to the Dominican Republic in her teens sparked a lifelong passion for cooking, which she sees as a way to unite people. At Sarah Lawrence College, she honed her craft in writing and visual art, laying the foundation for her storytelling career. Her multicultural background and love for food became the ingredients for her literary recipe, with kitchens and romance at the heart of her narratives.
Before becoming a novelist, Santos drew inspiration from her sister’s culinary school tales and her own evolving relationship with food. Moving from New York to Philadelphia, Santo Domingo, and eventually Florida, she gathered experiences that enriched her vibrant, culture-driven stories. Her membership in the Romance Writers of America (RWA) reflects her commitment to the genre.
Yaffa S. Santos’s Unforgettable Stories
Santos burst onto the scene with A Taste of Sage (2020), a romantic comedy that blends magical realism with culinary flair. The story follows Lumi Santana, a chef with synesthesia who can taste emotions in food, as she navigates a rocky romance with the prickly yet charming Julien Dax. Praised for its vivid food descriptions and Dominican influences, the novel won the International Latino Book Award for Best Romance and was named an Amazon Editor’s Pick. Its enemies-to-lovers trope and recipes make it a feast for romance fans.
In 2022, Santos released A Touch of Moonlight, another heartfelt tale weaving Dominican culture with love and self-discovery. Her stories stand out for their magical realism—think Lumi’s sensory gift—and lush depictions of food that make readers hungry. Santos’s style celebrates her heritage while exploring universal themes like communication, affection, and chasing dreams, all wrapped in a light, witty tone.
Her writing draws comparisons to Like Water for Chocolate, with food as a conduit for emotion. Whether it’s Lumi’s Dominican fusion dishes or Julien’s French classics, Santos’s novels are a love letter to culinary arts and human connection, making her a standout in contemporary romance.
Why Yaffa S. Santos Matters
Yaffa S. Santos brings a fresh voice to romance, amplifying Dominican-American stories in a genre often dominated by mainstream narratives. Her focus on cultural pride and magical realism offers readers a vibrant escape, while her culinary themes resonate with anyone who sees food as love. By spotlighting Dominican cuisine, she invites readers to savor underrepresented flavors and stories.
Her work inspires aspiring writers to embrace their roots and weave personal passions into their craft. With awards and a growing fanbase, Santos is carving a lasting legacy as a storyteller who makes romance deliciously inclusive.
- Born: New Jersey
- Key Works: A Taste of Sage (2020), A Touch of Moonlight (2022)
- Awards: International Latino Book Award for Best Romance (A Taste of Sage)
- Fun Fact: Her love for cooking was sparked by a teenage trip to the Dominican Republic.
Ready to savor a spicy, heartwarming read? Snag A Taste of Sage and dive into Yaffa S. Santos’s delectable world of romance and recipes!