Aja is spinning off her popular Enigma Universe with a new series. I recently spoke with her about her upcoming release, Siren.
Tell me about your latest book.
Siren is a soulful, sexy, and deeply emotional romance about two artists who were never supposed to fall for each other—at least not out loud. Sienna is a vocal powerhouse with a legacy to protect. Taraj is a quiet storm of a musician who doesn’t play industry games. Their chemistry is undeniable, but the world sees them as a PR dream. Behind closed doors it’s all heat and harmony.
This is the first book in The Enigma Affairs—a spinoff of my Enigma Universe that leans into love instead of the life. No street wars. Just passion, truth, and two people trying not to lose themselves in the process of falling.
How long did it take you to write it?
I like to say I wrote Siren in layers. Some chapters poured out of me, others needed time to marinate. Between the character backstories and all the emotion I wanted to pack in—it took a few months to shape it into the soulful, steamy story it is now.
Which character could you relate to the most and why?
Definitely Sienna. There’s something so familiar about being misunderstood and underestimated, especially when you’ve worked hard to be excellent without losing your soul. Sienna is soft and intense at the same time—she knows who she is, even when the world tries to tell her otherwise. I feel that.
How are you celebrating the book’s release?
This summer is packed with travel and book events, so honestly, I’m celebrating with my readers—face to face, heart to heart. Nothing feels better than sharing a new release in real time with the people who keep showing up for my stories.
Who is your author best friend (either in your head or in real life)?
That would be Stephanie Nicole Norris. She and her work inspire me, and her presence in this industry keeps me grounded when everything else seems to be spinning.
What is the most valuable piece of writing advice you’ve received?
I find that different bits of advice become important at different stages of my career. Right now it’s, “Write the story only you can tell.” That stays with me. Because it’s easy to chase trends or fit into boxes, but the most powerful stories come from the gut. From the heart. From the soul of who you are.
What books have you read lately and loved?
Whew, if only I had the time to read like I want to! But my TBR is overflowing with Black romance. That’s my first love, and I’ll always come back to it.
What books are you excited to read?
I’m really looking forward to diving into more of Granger’s Drew Collins series.
What’s next for you?
More Enigma World building. More Lovers Series books. More Black love in all its forms. I’m just getting started, as crazy as that sounds, after over 40 stories. So if you’ve been riding with me, stay close—because the next few stories are going to be even deeper, sexier, and more soul-stirring.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Just this: Black romance is a reflection of our joy, our pleasure, and our softness. I’m grateful to be a part of this space, and I write every story like it matters—because it does. We need it. Thank you to every reader who’s rocked with me so far. I hope Siren sings to you.
And Chandra, thank you for the reminder that I matter and my stories matter. Blessings to you always.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Siren by Aja.
To learn more about author Aja, visit her website or connect with her on social media:
Website: www.ajathewriter.com
Visit @ajathewriter across social media (@ajathewriterbooks on FB)