In this episode of Author’s Mic, we’re talking with the incredible Chandrika Phea — an ordained reverend, global missionary, and now, best-selling author of the powerful debut book Lord, I Don’t Want to Die a Christian. Her story is one of deep spiritual transformation, religious deconstruction, and reclaiming identity beyond the pulpit.

From the Black church in Oklahoma City to the streets of China, Chandrika opens up about what led her to write a book that has challenged and inspired readers across the world.

From Mission Work to Personal Revelation

Born into generations of Black clergy, Chandrika followed a familiar path — she became a minister, studied Biblical Studies, and traveled to China on a mission. But she didn't return the same.

“I went to China to change China,” she says. “But China changed me.”

When she came back to the States and returned to her church routine, something inside her began to shift. The sermons didn’t resonate the way they once did. The words felt smaller. The questions she had buried began to surface.

And one day, standing in her own home, she exhaled a truth that would shape her future:

“Lord, I don’t want to die a Christian.”

That moment sparked the idea for what would become her debut book.

A Bold Debut That Speaks to the Soul

Lord, I Don’t Want to Die a Christian is more than a provocative title. It’s a spiritual memoir, a journal, and a journey to freedom. Chandrika shares what it means to outgrow the faith structures you were raised in — and how to hold onto your spiritual foundation while shedding religious expectations.

She never planned to write a book. But when the words came, they wouldn’t let go.

“I felt like my story wasn’t just mine. I needed to share it.”

Traditional Publishing, Divine Timing

Unlike many guests on Author’s Mic, Chandrika did not go the indie route. Instead, she connected with a publisher through a friend who had read her early draft.

“It was bad,” she admits. “But I’m grateful — because my publisher believed in the project.”

She didn’t do hybrid publishing or pay to publish. Her experience was a blend of traditional support and collaborative growth. And most importantly? It felt aligned.

“It’s been good communication and conversation. I feel supported.”

What New Authors Need to Know

When asked what advice she would give a new author, Chandrika doesn’t hesitate:

“Editing. I didn’t know how hard that would be.”

She reviewed her manuscript five times — making sure her voice remained intact.

“This is my story. My journal. My journey to freedom. I wasn’t going to let anyone change my message.”

Her reminder to fellow authors? Excellence over perfection, always.

Where to Find Her Book

📘 Lord, I Don’t Want to Die a Christian is available now on Amazon and all major platforms.

📲 Follow Chandrika on all platforms: @ChandrikaD.Phea on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

🎧 Watch the full interview on Author’s Mic to hear her full story, publishing experience, and her reflections on what it means to break away from religious boxes.

Final Thoughts

Chandrika’s journey is a reminder that your truth matters — even when it challenges everything you were taught to believe. Her voice is bold, honest, and necessary in a world where faith and identity often collide.

“If you read the book and have questions, reach out. I’m always open to conversation.”

Support this powerful story by grabbing the book and sharing it with someone who needs it. Because healing begins with honesty — and sometimes, that honesty sounds like: Lord, I don’t want to die a Christian.

Topics Covered:

Christian Deconstruction, Black Women Authors, Author’s Mic, Spiritual Memoirs, Faith and Identity, Religious Trauma, Indie vs. Traditional Publishing, Author Interviews, BIPOC Voices in Publishing, Books That Heal