I started writing my first novel in 2020 and I remember typing the first words as if it were yesterday.
The protagonist, Luz, appeared before me, pacing her apartment on Calle Obispo in Havana. I caught her in the eye of a storm—arguing with her husband, the tension between them sizzling like a cosmic reckoning. I heard her high heels clacking ominously on the marble floor, her expensive perfume stirring my senses. When electricity coursed through her body as she locked eyes with her husband, I shivered witnessing the moment.
Shortly after, Leon mysteriously vanished, setting Luz on a perilous quest for answers.
Have you met Luz yet? Despite the adversity she faces, I dare say you won’t be left unmoved by her growth.
Sunrise Escape embodies blood, sweat, pain, loss, and profound change—not only for Luz but also for me. My daughter Annelotte recently passed away. Finishing the book became a lifeline and an ode to her.
As I prepared to move, I tucked the old manuscripts into a big shopping bag, ready to toss them in the bin. Doubt crept in. Maybe someday I’d want to reread the earlier versions of the story.
So much has changed over the years. As I learned to write better, the story evolved. My editor helped me refine it until it shone, giving me the confidence to publish it.
Sunrise Escape is now available worldwide for everyone to read. It feels both intimidating and empowering.
Initially, the book was called Eye for an Eye––my daughter thought the title sounded too menacing. Then there was Inez, Luz’s youngest sister, who didn’t make it into the final version. Inez was a brilliant girl, a visionary wrapped in a leather skirt and black boots. I might give her center stage in another novel someday.
Annelotte always said she wanted to hold a printed copy of the book in her hands. I’ll try to make that happen as soon as things have settled down.
Despite these difficult times, Luz’s strength in weathering her storm gives me hope.
