Showrunner Mara Brock Akil Set to Publish Her First Novel in June
Variety
by Kennedy FrenchFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Mara Brock Akil, a renowned showrunner known for creating popular TV series like "Girlfriends" and "The Game," is set to debut as a novelist with *The Revelation of Dionne Daphne*, releasing on June 30 through Storehouse Voices, an imprint of Crown Publishing. The novel follows Dionne Daphne, a successful beauty editor in 1990s New York, whose seemingly perfect life is disrupted when her boyfriend arrives unannounced with shocking news. This event triggers Dionne to confront buried childhood secrets and embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of love, identity, and trauma.
Brock Akil's transition from television to fiction marks a significant expansion of her storytelling career. Over 25 years, she has crafted memorable characters and narratives that resonate with audiences, including Joan Clayton from "Girlfriends" and Keisha from Netflix’s *Forever*. Her debut novel delves into emotional depth, offering a raw exploration of sexual awakening, family trauma, and evolving relationships. This marks a notable shift for the award-winning creator, as she brings her signature cultural insight to the literary world.
The novel's publication is备受期待, especially among fans of her TV work. It promises to resonate with readers seeking stories that reflect the complexities of Black women’s lives. With its exploration of
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Originally published on Variety on 2/24/2026