Picture a New York storyteller who spun the glitz of reality TV dance competitions into heartfelt Latinx love stories—meet Alexis Daria! This award-winning author has captivated readers with her sizzling contemporary romances, blending humor, heart, and cultural identity. From the dance floor to the telenovela set, Daria’s novels are a vibrant celebration of love and diversity.
The Making of Alexis Daria
A lifelong New Yorker, Alexis Daria grew up with a passion for Broadway musicals, pizza, and storytelling. With a BFA in Computer Arts, she initially pursued a career as a visual artist, but her creative journey took a turn when she joined a women’s empowerment community as a group facilitator. This role deepened her understanding of personal growth, inspiring her to craft romance novels where characters overcome obstacles to find their happily-ever-afters. Daria’s early writing included fan fiction, and by her twenties, she was diving into National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), honing her craft in New York City’s vibrant literary scene.
Alexis Daria’s Unforgettable Stories
Daria’s debut novel, Take the Lead, kicked off her Dance Off series with a bang, winning the 2018 RITA Award for Best First Book. Set in the dazzling world of a reality dance show, it follows Latinx dancer Gina Morales and her rugged Alaskan partner, Stone Nielson, as their chemistry ignites both on and off the dance floor. Its sequel, Dance with Me, explores a forbidden romance between dancer Natasha Díaz and judge Dimitri Kovalenko, blending steamy tension with workplace drama. Daria’s Primas of Power series, starting with the national bestseller You Had Me at Hola, dives into the telenovela world, where soap opera star Jasmine Lin Rodriguez navigates love and tabloid scandals with telenovela hunk Ashton Suárez. A Lot Like Adiós, the series’ second book, delivers a second-chance romance between childhood friends Michelle Amato and Gabriel Aguilar, tackling family dynamics and cultural identity. Known for her authentic Latinx characters, Daria weaves humor, heart, and themes of self-discovery into her fast-paced, trope-filled narratives.
Her shorter works, like the witchy novella What the Hex and the holiday-themed Only Santas in the Building, showcase her versatility, blending paranormal and festive vibes with her signature steamy romance. Daria’s style is a love letter to Latinx culture, with characters who navigate messy familias, gender roles, and personal ambitions while finding love.
Why Alexis Daria Matters
Alexis Daria is a trailblazer in contemporary romance, amplifying Latinx voices in a genre that has historically lacked diversity. Her novels resonate with readers for their authentic portrayal of cultural identity, from Puerto Rican and Mexican heritage to the tight-knit dynamics of immigrant families. By centering successful Latinx characters, Daria challenges stereotypes and celebrates resilience and joy. Her work has earned accolades from outlets like Oprah Magazine and Entertainment Weekly, and her advocacy for inclusivity—through collaborations with Latina authors like Priscilla Oliveras and Mia Sosa—has helped build a more representative publishing world. Daria’s stories remind us that love is universal, but its cultural nuances make it all the more beautiful.
About Alexis Daria
- Key Works: Take the Lead (2017), You Had Me at Hola (2020), A Lot Like Adiós (2021)
- Awards: 2018 RITA Award for Best First Book (Take the Lead)
- Fun Fact: Daria co-hosts #RWchat, a weekly Twitter chat for romance writers.
Ready to salsa into a world of romance and rhythm? Snag You Had Me at Hola and dive into Alexis Daria’s vibrant contemporary romances!