At the heart of my stories is one belief: everyone deserves love, no matter the longing or chaos it takes to get there.

Joanne Almonte Mason, a Dominican-American writer, is based outside of Northern Virginia, just outside of our nation's capital.

She writes contemporary romance for readers who like their love stories a little messy, deeply felt, and grounded in emotional truth. Her characters fall hard, say the wrong thing, and learn how to choose themselves (and each other) along the way.

Her debut novel, In Good Company, earned her a place in the Smooch Pit mentorship program, recognized for its emotional vulnerability, sharp character work, and unflinching honesty about modern love.