Author Spotlight: The Blakk Dahlia

The Blakk Dahlia (E. Alexcina Brown) is a self-published, romantic suspense author. The Macon, GA native has created ventures within the entertainment and fashion industries in front of the camera as an internationally published model, as well as behind the scenes. As a writer, she has contributed articles and blogs for various industries, including creating and serving as Editor-in-chief for four years for the digital publication, BRASH! magazine. Now residing in New York City, the Blackk Dahlia released the fiction book series, The Heartbreak Diaries, a collection of romantic suspense stories that dive into the various hearts we love, like, or lust with when approaching dating, relationships, marriage, and even situationships. 

“There’s something amazing about having creative control. I wanted to write and publish my stories, my way without having to follow a formula developed by a company.”

The Blakk Dahlia is a shining example of why Read It Black to Me exists. She took her love of writing and mixed it with her personal experiences and shared her voice with the world — and she didn’t wait for anybody to give her permission!

Let’s get right to it.

The Blakk Dahlia, Author

1.) Tell us a little about yourself. My name is E. Alexcina Brown, and I write under the pen name “The Blakk Dahlia”. I’m originally from Macon, GA and currently resides in New York City.

I write and self-publish romantic-suspense books. Currently I’m working on my series, the Heartbreak Diaries which is a collection of stories from the “heart’s” perspective. I believe in telling stories from a different point of view which explores “why” we do the things we do in dating/relationships.

Aside from writing, I am an actress, print model, and web producer.

 

2.)Tell us what your book, The Perfect Sin, is all about.The Perfect Sin is a romantic-suspense novel about a love affair. It begins with a young woman living in survival mode and she runs into a man who is taken. At first it’s innocent then as the story goes on, they try to navigate getting what they want (which is being with each other) while dealing with the realities of right vs. wrong. They share a forbidden love, however, at times, the two don’t seem to mind dealing with the consequences.

3.) What was the inspiration for this book?

The inspiration from the book began when I started a new job. There was a “work crush” I’d see from time to time, however, he was taken. Instead of acting it out in real life, I chose to write about it. Diving into the possibilities of “what if.” The story also tackles friendships and sharing your personal life with those close to you. It gets into the interactions of those who agree and disagree with one’s romantic choices.

Heartbreak Diaries series, The Blakk Dahlia

4.) What was the hardest thing about writing The Perfect Sin?

Worrying about the moral issues raised and how they would be received. In these current times, (especially with social media), it’s hard for artists/writers to tell a story. Whether right or wrong, there’s a story to be told. I think at first, I was apprehensive about writing on the topic of infidelity because I wanted people to appreciate it for what it was. Not dissect it with personal opinions over a fictional story.

 

 

5.) What was one thing you learned about yourself while writing this book?

I learned that I’m good at what I do. Painting the picture and giving a great tale with my words. I released my first few books with self-doubt. However, with this book, I was confident that I reached the goal of creating a good story to keep readers engaged.

6.) Describe your book in one line.

An eye-catching, unpopular, opinionated tale you can’t put down!

7.)  What made you decide to become an author?

Writing has always been a way of self-expression. It took a long time for me to articulate my feelings, thoughts, and ideas; however, I found the right words once I put pen to the paper. Creating stories started in elementary school with random assignments for English classes; then turned into a hobby since I loved it so much. As time went on and I became an avid reader of fictional romance stories, I thought “Why not me?” So I turned my own personal experiences into fictional stories and books. Hopefully, people will relate and learn throughout the process of reading my work.

8.) What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

Give yourself an expiration date on calling yourself an “aspiring writer.: Once you say: “I am a writer” the actions will align with your words and everything else will fall into place. Constantly introducing yourself as an “aspiring ____” keeps you in the category of “I’m trying to do it”.

9.) Why did you choose to self-publish your book?

There’s something amazing about having creative control. I wanted to write and publish my stories, my way without having to follow a formula developed by a company. In addition, I didn’t want to wait on anyone. I didn’t want my goal of being an author to be in the hands of anyone else but myself. It’s much harder being an indie author but to me, its worth it!

10.) Where can readers buy your book?

Book lovers can preview The Perfect Sin here: https://allauthor.com/preview/38358/

My books are available on the following websites:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0858S87YQ

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084R83T1W

NookBook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-perfect-sin-the-blakk-dahlia/1136542691

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-perfect-sin

AppleBooks: https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-perfect-sin/id1500486995

And more digital outlets found here: https://books2read.com/the-perfect-sin-book

You can also learn more about the book by visiting my website: https://www.theblakkdahlia.com/the-perfect-sin-book.html

11.) Where can our readers find you on social media?

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theblakkdahlia
Instagram: @blakkdahliawrites

12.) Please share your website with our readers.

www.TheBlakkDahlia.com

The Perfect Sin

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Audra Russell

Audra Russell

Audra Russell is a blogger, freelance writer, and published author. She holds two undergraduate degrees in journalism as well as a Master of Science degree in Education. She also completed the Wesleyan University online Creative Writing Specialization course series.

She is an avid reader and writer’s advocate. Her passion for promoting the works of up-and-coming authors inspired her to create her podcast, Between the Reads, as well as her website, Read It Black to Me. Her debut novel, BLOOD LAND, was published on August 29, 2020, as her fiftieth birthday gift to herself. She lives in Maryland with her husband of more than 20 years, her 3 amazing children, a 12-year-old perpetual puppy, two dueling cats, and her lone surviving chicken of 8 years who she affectionately renamed Gloria (she will survive!)