Meet Grace Santamaria | Author and bookstagrammer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Grace Santamaria and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Grace, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’ve always been an avid reader, but didn’t consider writing a book until 2020. Like many others, the pandemic put many aspects of my life into perspective and made me evaluate where my time and energy were going to. At the time, I was searching for a creative outlet, a purpose that was unrelated to work or parenting. I also wanted to have a more active role in supporting causes and mindsets that are close to my heart. Storytelling checked all the boxes!

I’m also a bookstagrammer, which means I have an Instagram profile devoted to reviews, reveals, and my reading journey. I try to be very conscious about my reading choices, opting for diverse, socially relevant, or books that fit my mood, and not necessarily chase after the latest bestseller. Through my platform, I seek to uplift other authors’ journeys and be an active supporter of the literary scene here in Miami. I’m always on the lookout for local writers and literary events in the area!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I write contemporary fiction novels about Latinas making bold moves and living their best lives. I draw many themes in my stories from my life experiences and those of my loved ones. The immigration perspective comes from my background: I’m Colombian-American, raised in Barranquilla, and I’ve lived in Miami since the year 2000. I gravitate naturally to stories about identity, family that’s left behind, and assimilating a new culture while being loyal to one’s roots. I also include themes of office drama and workplace competition, both very close to me since I’ve worked in marketing roles, usually focusing on the Latin American market, for over a decade. Lastly, Miami is the city that I’ve called home for over 20 years, and despite all its nuances, it’s a place that has welcomed me with open arms. In my upcoming novel, I try to highlight some of the great things Miami has to offer: its unique energy, cultural diversity, beautiful landscapes, nightlife and beach vibes.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’ve always said Miami is a city with multiple identities. There’s so much to see and do, but it all depends on who you ask.

I love the Coral Gables area, so I’d start with brunch at one of the many restaurants there. I like Bachour (for French inspired), Keik (for the ‘gram), and Motek (if you like Mediterranean food). From there, I’d walk over to Books & Books Coral Gables, an iconic indie bookstore that is a haven for readers and writers, and spend the afternoon reading at their wonderful open-air courtyard.

I think if someone is visiting Miami, the Brickell area at night is a must (with plenty of time to spare for traffic). The area is in constant development, with new sparkly towers popping up every few months. There are so many restaurants and bars to choose from and hop from early evening to late night. I like to take visitors to Sugar in the East Hotel because it has a bit of everything: a full menu, amazing cocktails, and stunning Miami views from the 40th floor.

If my friend was visiting for a week, I’d check out what concerts, games, or events are happening. There’s always something going on in Miami, with concerts nearly every weekend at the Kaseya Center or Hard Rock Stadium, and performing arts events at the Adrienne Arsht Center. A great way to experience the city is to attend an Inter Miami futbol match, or a Miami Heat basketball game. In 2025, Miami is hosting an F1 Grand Prix for the 4th year in a row. And of course, there’s always the beach and all the water activities surrounding Miami!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely. Writing itself can be very lonely. We spend hours alone with our thoughts, creating fictional worlds and characters. I was lucky to start working many years ago with book coach Julie Tyler, also a Miami-based author. Through her Storybold platform, Julie connected me with a group of talented critique partners whose expertise has been crucial for my writing career.

Through the years, I’ve also worked with several beta and early readers who have graciously donated their time and expertise to help me improve my writing. To Claudia Armann, Zania Sala, Helen Marie Webster, and so many others, thank you.

I’m very thankful to the WFWA, a diverse and international community of fiction writers that provides learning resources and networking opportunities year-round.

Another shoutout goes to my publisher, the brilliant women running Rising Action Publishing, a traditional independent publishing house who took a chance on me and my debut novel!

Finally, I wish to dedicate my shoutout to the vibrant group of Latina writers who are rocking the publishing world. I draw inspiration from great Colombian American authors such as Maria Alejandra Barrios Velez, Patricia Engel, Ingrid Rojas Contreras, Melissa Mogollon, and so many others who have persevered to bring stories that represent entire communities to life.

Website: https://www.gracesantamaria.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracesbookcollection/?hl=en