Linda Villarosa (born January 9, 1959) is an American author and journalist who is a former executive editor of Essence magazine.

She is also author of several books, and her first novel, Passing for Black, was nominated for a Lambda Literary Award in 2008.

She also earned a master's degree in urban journalism/digital storytelling in 2013 from the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism.

She is author and co-author of three books, including Body & Soul: The Black Women’s Guide to Physical Health and Emotional Well-Being.

Villarosa worked as a consultant to provide editorial expertise to companies and organizations like American Express Publishing and Meredith.