Reading

2023 Goal: Less Scrolling, More Reading

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This post, like the previous, is a companion post for my monthly newsletter, so as not to clutter it up with links. There you can find not just news about my latest and upcoming books, but insights about my writing process, along with my thoughts about the media I’m reading/watching/listening to every month. Sometimes you’ll even get an early look at a cover reveal or exclusive access to a free story. If that sounds like your thing, you can subscribe here.

Here’s a look at the books I’ve read in 2023 so far. Pretty amazing considering my original reading goal for the entire year was just 20 books! 📚🏆

collage graphic of all the books listed below

I enjoyed all of these for different reasons but I’ve put stars next to the standouts. For reviews on select books, follow me on BookBub.

What the Hex is here!

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What the Hex is now available for your listening pleasure!

Listen to What the Hex on Audible

WHAT THE HEX

Welcome to Isla Bruja, a secret magical enclave near Miami and home to the richest and most powerful Latinx witch families.

When Catalina Cartagena returns home for her older sister’s wedding, she’s shocked to discover that her soon-to-be brother in law is possessed by a demon. To make matters worse, everyone else seems to be under the demon’s spell—except for Diego Paz, younger brother of the groom and Cat’s childhood rival. 

With only three days until the wedding, Cat must join forces with her sexy nemesis to break the spell and defeat the demon. If they fail, demonic forces will control two of the most powerful witch families on Isla Bruja.

There’s only one bed at the magical B&B, and it’s time for these witches to get wicked…in more ways than one.

Also included in the Audible Plus program.

Narration by Jacqueline Grace Lopez
Cover illustration by María Dresden

Listen to WHAT THE HEX by @alexisdaria! Out now from @audible_com. https://adbl.co/whatthehex

What the Hex Cover Reveal!

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I’m thrilled to share the cover for What the Hex, my upcoming Audible Original novella! It’s a paranormal rom-com about a family of glamorous Latinx witches in Miami, coming July 1st for your summer audiobook listening pleasure.

WHAT THE HEX

Welcome to Isla Bruja, a secret magical enclave near Miami and home to the richest and most powerful Latinx witch families.

When Catalina Cartagena returns home for her older sister’s wedding, she’s shocked to discover that her soon-to-be brother in law is possessed by a demon. To make matters worse, everyone else seems to be under the demon’s spell—except for Diego Paz, younger brother of the groom and Cat’s childhood rival. 

With only three days until the wedding, Cat must join forces with her sexy nemesis to break the spell and defeat the demon. If they fail, demonic forces will control two of the most powerful witch families on Isla Bruja.

There’s only one bed at the magical B&B, and it’s time for these witches to get wicked…in more ways than one.

What the Hex will be available on July 1st as part of the Audible Plus program.

I’m so excited to introduce you to the Cartagena familia! Here they are!

Isn’t it fantastic? I love it so much! And if the style looks familiar, it’s because it was illustrated by María Dresden, who did the You Had Me at Hola webtoon last year. María is a joy to work with and I’m so happy she was able to join this project!

Check out the cover reveal for WHAT THE HEX by @alexisdaria! Out 7/1/21 from @audible_com.

The Ripped Bodice Grand Opening

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12814343_10153417664793341_4690919157905779256_nWhile in Los Angeles earlier this month, I happened to be around Culver City for the grand opening of The Ripped Bodice, the first romance-only bookstore. After raising over $90,000 on Kickstarter, sisters Bea and Leah Koch opened the doors on March 4th, 2016.

The store is cute and highly photogenic, with a mix of art, carefully curated gift items, and of course, BOOKS! The books are displayed in a way that makes it easy for you to browse genres & tropes you enjoy. Looking for rock stars? Sports romance? M/M? There’s a shelf for each, & knowledgeable staff to answer your questions and give suggestions. Indie, traditional, and classics can be found easily, making for an impressive selection of print titles. Subtle, creative merchandising invites you to get lost while looking for your latest additions to the TBR pile. Displays seamlessly combine books & local crafts, making it a great gift resource for book lovers. And I can’t say enough about the antique furniture decorating the space & providing seating. If you’re in LA, definitely check out The Ripped Bodice, a haven for romance readers.

Lots of photos below! Continue reading →