Warm Hues. Island Breeze. Good Reads.
It’s TheIslandReader Way!
Launched in 2014, The Island Reader was created for fellow book nerds and TV enthusiasts to celebrate the work of creators of colors, especially in the romance genre. For a long time, I looked for reviews and updates of works from my favorite storytellers and came up short. Who was reviewing my favorite Rochelle Alers book? Why wasn’t an update on Maureen Smith or Altonya Washington’s latest novel easily accessible? I saw a void, my goal is to help fill it. I am passionate about amplifying the voices of creators of color and the majority of the content on this site will reflect that.
The Island Reader’s mission is to increase the visibility of romance writers of colors, make new discoveries, and share meaningful conversations.
In addition to book, film, and TV-related posts, I will also be sharing lifestyle, travel, and career focused content. I’m a novelist at heart (my first book just hasn’t been published yet 🙂 ) so also be on the look out for personal essays, poetry, short stories and updates on my current writing projects.
About Natalya
Florida born, Turks and Caicos Islands raised; this Caribbean girl has always been an avid reader but the first time I snuck a Brenda Jackson novel off of the library’s shelf I knew that whatever career path I chose, I would always be linked to books. In addition to writing about books and TV shows, I am a freelance writer and editor for authors & multi-passionate creatives helping them to create clear & engaging content. At my full-time job, at a Tampa-based promotional product agency, I help clients stand out in competitive markets by providing brand building products.
When I am not creating content or buying new books, I’m usually watching old scenes from General Hospital on YouTube or scouring my local TJ Maxx for new stationery.
Fun Facts
Favorite movie(s): Casablanca (I am a sucker for a great love story), Steel Magnolias, American Gangster
Classic film I haven’t watched: Citizen Kane
Current favorite show(s): Scandal, Grey’s Anatomy, Queen Sugar, Underground
Last great book I read: The Perfect Find by Tia Williams
A Classic that I haven’t read: Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
Favorite dish: hashed lobster and grits
Favorite romance novel: Very hard to choose but if I had to pick just one, I would say Behind Those Eyes by T.P. Carter
