Gemma Byrd is a Dallas native, Iranian-American, and faithful book club member. She writes upmarket fiction with a touch of magical realism, set against the lush backdrop of rural Europe with diverse characters. Her stories blend romance, food, and quiet power, while exploring themes of grief, belonging, and transformation.

Her debut novel, Max Meets Darling, is inspired by truffle hunters, found family, twinkle lights, kitchens with lots of copper pots, and the sad inevitability that she will never be Ina Garten.

Gemma is an alliteration addict and butter enthusiast, powered primarily by ginger-lime soda. She’s ashamed to admit that she is also a CPA/attorney, which is certain to diminish what little street cred she possesses.

Please ask Gemma about her two cats, Javier and Rafa, because chances are she’s dying to bring them up in conversation anyway. Her dog Penny defected to Gemma’s mother last year, likely due to the size of her backyard, and because Gemma’s father feeds Penny boiled chicken every day.

This photo was taken at Gemma’s happiest place on Earth, a Cheesecake Factory located in Orlando, Florida.