My Debut Novel: A Journey of Culture, Purpose & Orange Blossoms

Here's more about my journey of becoming an author

Ten years ago, a student teacher named Angel gifted me a painting of oranges . It sat on my desk through career changes, new classrooms, and personal milestones. What I didn’t know then? That painting would one day spark my debut novel.

Today, I’m thrilled to share the journey of writing The Orange Blossom—a story born from culture, rooted in Liberian folktales, and blooming with purpose.

The Inspiration Behind Orange Blossom

Storytelling is the heartbeat of everything I do—from teaching and DEI coaching to podcasting. But Orange Blossom is different. It’s personal. It’s a love letter to the women who raised me, and to the inner voice that says, “You’re not too late to start.”

Joviah, the main character, represents so many of us. Searching for meaning. Holding onto family wisdom. Relearning how to trust the slow bloom of purpose.

Writing the Novel: A Ritual of Grace & Discipline

My writing process was structured yet tender. Three-hour sessions, three days a week. On some days, the words flowed freely; on others, I simply sat in silence.

The beauty of this journey? I didn’t do it alone. Community carried me. Faith anchored me. And that painting of the oranges -why I started.

What I Hope You Take From This Book

Orange Blossom is not just a novel. It’s a cultural bridge. It’s a reminder that our stories matter, especially those that have lived in oral tradition. I want readers to feel nourished. Seen. 

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Final Thoughts

From painting to pages, Orange Blossom has been a decade in the making. I can’t wait to share it with you. Thank you for believing in my work, and for being part of this next chapter.