Attica Locke is an American author and screenwriter known for her compelling novels that often explore themes of race, justice, and identity. She gained recognition for her books such as Black Water Rising and The Cutting Season, which have received critical acclaim and several awards. Locke's writing is characterized by its rich storytelling and deep character development. In addition to her work as a novelist, Locke has also contributed to television, including writing for the series Empire. She is a graduate of Harvard University and holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from The University of California, Los Angeles. Her diverse background informs her storytelling and perspective on contemporary issues.