Author Manika Guerrier knows there’s nothing better than love—unless it’s love and music. I recently spoke with her about her release, Into the Spotlight.
Tell me about your latest book.
My latest book is called Into the Spotlight. It’s a contemporary romance centered around music and two young artists who fall in love while chasing their dreams. Throughout the story, they each grow individually while navigating the realities of the music industry and how fame, ambition, and personal struggles impact their relationship. At its core, it’s a story about growth, hardship, authenticity, and learning who you are while pursuing the life you’ve always wanted.
Why did you decide to write it?
I decided to write Into the Spotlight because I truly believe it was something God placed on my heart. From everything I’ve experienced and observed about life, emotions, and relationships, I felt that many stories didn’t fully capture the emotional realities people face every day. I wanted to write a book where readers could genuinely see themselves in the characters and connect with their journeys. I also believe music is one of the greatest ways people connect emotionally, so combining music with storytelling felt like exactly what I was called to do.
How did you come up with the book’s title?
Honestly, the title came naturally while I was writing. The story follows two people who both dream of being successful artists. They each want to be seen, recognized, and make their mark on the world. In today’s culture, everyone is searching for their moment to shine in some way. Into the Spotlight perfectly captured not only the characters’ dreams but also the journey they take to get there. Looking back, I truly feel God placed that title on my heart.
What’s the nicest thing a reader has ever said to you?
One of the nicest things a reader has ever told me was that my book made them reflect on their own life and that they saw themselves in one of my characters, especially Keith. I don’t want to spoil his story, but hearing that someone connected with him on such a personal level meant everything to me. My goal has always been to write characters that feel real because real people go through difficult things every day.
Another reader told me they almost cried while reading the book. That touched me deeply because I wanted readers to genuinely feel the emotions of the story. While Into the Spotlight deals with difficult topics at times, life can be difficult too, and I wanted the emotions to feel honest.
When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?
Growing up, I always had a huge imagination. Whether I was playing with stuffed animals, creating stories, or even writing fan fiction, I loved storytelling. Even now, I naturally create stories in my head about people I meet just for fun.
I realized I wanted to become a writer after I started reading consistently again as an adult. There was a period where work and school took over my life, but once I started reading again, I found myself thinking, I can do this too. Not because other authors weren’t talented, but because I felt I had stories that could connect with people emotionally in my own way.
I remember telling my younger sister that I was going to write a book, and without hesitation she told me she believed I could do it and that one day it would be published. Her confidence in me meant a lot, and looking back, that conversation was one of the moments that pushed me to finally pursue writing.
What author would you love to meet?
I would love to meet Ashley Antoinette. One of the books that really impacted me was a
A Moth to a Flame. Even though I haven’t read all of her work, that novel showed me how powerful emotional storytelling can be. I’d love the opportunity to hear about her writing process, how she develops her characters, and what inspires her stories. She played a part in encouraging me to believe I could write meaningful stories too.
What books have you read lately and loved?
One book I’ve read recently and absolutely loved is A Moth to a Flame by Ashley Antoinette. It was such an emotional and unexpected read. I really appreciated how authentic the characters felt and how deeply the story explored real-life experiences. I also loved how much culture was woven into the story. It’s definitely a book I recommend to anyone looking for an emotional, character-driven read.
What books are at the top of your to-be-read pile?
This answer might be a little unexpected! Right now, one of the next books I plan to read is Credit Secrets 3-in-1 because I’m always looking for ways to become more financially educated and make wise decisions for my future. I’m also planning to reread The Purpose and Power of Woman by Dr. Myles Munroe, followed by The Purpose and Power of Men. My faith is very important to me, so I enjoy books that help me grow spiritually and personally. Beyond that, I’m always looking for more contemporary fiction and Black literature that tells meaningful, authentic stories.
What’s next for you?
My next release is Closed Curtains, which serves as a prequel to Into the Spotlight. It follows Trinity’s mother, Aaliyah, and explores the experiences that shaped her long before the events of my first novel. Like Into the Spotlight, it isn’t afraid to tackle difficult topics or show the emotional realities people face. I recently finished writing Closed Curtains, and now I’m beginning work on my third novel, which will be a completely new standalone story. I’m excited to continue growing as an author and exploring new stories that readers can connect with.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
First and foremost, I want to give all the glory to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I truly believe He placed these stories on my heart, and without Him, Into the Spotlight, Closed Curtains, and every future book wouldn’t exist. My faith has been the foundation of this entire journey.
I also want to thank everyone who believed in me. My younger sister believed I would become a published author before I even believed it myself, and I’ll always be grateful for her encouragement.
I also want to thank someone who is very special to me. I wrote my first novel while completing PTA school, balancing practicals, exams, and clinical rotations. There were many moments when the workload felt overwhelming, and that person consistently encouraged me, believed in me, and supported me through it all. I am incredibly grateful for that support.
Finally, thank you to every reader who chooses to spend time with my stories. If you read Into the Spotlight, I’d genuinely love to hear what you think. Please feel free to reach out to me on social media—I truly enjoy hearing readers’ thoughts, reactions, and favorite moments from the book.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Into the Spotlight.
To learn more about author Manika Guerrier, connect with her on social media:
Instagram: @sincerelynikaa