On the Brink of My Fourth Book

In less than a week, on August 29th, my fourth novel, Nornöns eko, will be released. It took me four years to write, and along the way, it went through several changes: I shifted the POV from third to first person, rewrote the inciting moment to raise the stakes, and aimed to make the text more intimate, vivid, and emotionally charged. I wanted to entertain and provide escape, but I also didn't shy away from sensitive topics. Whether or not I’ve succeeded is for readers to decide, but I gave it all I could. I waver between feeling deeply proud of the finished product and being utterly exhausted by the entire manuscript! Like, I couldn’t possibly read it ever again. More than once, I asked myself: Does the world really need this book? Another novel in an ocean of titles published each year? What am I adding to the conversation? And what even is my conversation?

Here’s what I’ve come to realize: the world may not have needed this book, but I did. Once the characters started speaking to me—whispering that their stories were incomplete—I knew I had to continue Zoë, JG, and Linn’s journey from Nornö to the place they could finally call home, both physically and emotionally. I also believe my voice is unique—not because I consider myself more talented than other writers (there are countless authors I admire who I think do it better), but because my life experiences as a Haitian American who relocated to Sweden, married a Swede, and raised a family here give me a perspective that isn’t often represented. I feel I have something worthwhile to contribute: stories that transcend boundaries, explore unlikely relationships, and present nuanced narratives that are not given enough space in mainstream literature, especially in Sweden.

I’m nervous as Nornöns eko moves from “Notify Me” to “Available” online and onto shelves. But before that happens, here are my takeaways from the long and winding journey of bringing this book to life:

1. When one path closes, find another. My experience with a previous editor was extremely difficult. It left me doubting myself and tempted to abandon the book. But the characters wouldn’t let me. Their voices kept me going until Nornöns eko found a new place to flourish.

2. Seek professional guidance when you’re stuck. I worked with a coach to strengthen my author mindset and a developmental editor to help shape the manuscript. Those investments made a huge difference.

3. Lean on the writing community. Sharing struggles (and the occasional triumph) with other writers has been a reminder that I’m not alone. Their encouragement and advice were invaluable during moments of doubt.

4. The publishing-industrial complex is as chaotic and competitive as ever. There are more books on the market, fast-moving trends, and an industry landscape that is full of contradictions. I’ve felt disillusioned and anxious, but I believe that good writing, compelling stories, and persistence still win out.

5. Enough with eternal gratitude. I was conditioned to be endlessly grateful just to be published. Gratitude matters, but let’s be clear: without writers, there is no publishing industry. I’d love to see more respect, transparency, and professionalism from agents and editors. Ghosting and condescending form letters shouldn’t be the norm. With AI and technological change disrupting everything, valuing real storytellers is more important than ever.

6. It takes the time it takes. I used to beat myself up for not writing quickly, but I juggle family, volunteer commitments, travel, and life between two countries. Although my routine is far from perfect, the years of gestation and editing made Nornöns eko stronger. If I’d forced it out in a year, it wouldn’t be the book it is today.

7. Working with the Swedish translation was both easier and difficult this time around. Over twenty-five years in Sweden has sharpened my ear for the language, letting me catch tone and rhythm more easily. Still, it also made me pickier, agonizing over single words to preserve the characters’ voices and emotional weight. I had to balance trusting the translator’s expertise with following my author instincts.

8. Be clear with your team. No one knows your book like you do. With this novel, I communicated my vision more confidently than ever before. Four books in, I feel more seasoned, more certain about what I want.

9. Social media matters. Like it or not, an online presence is essential for a middle-aged, mid-list writer like me. The opportunities for connection are extraordinary, and I’ve enjoyed learning new skills and creating content to engage with readers.

10. Readers make it all worthwhile. Above all, I’m grateful to the readers who connected with Sommaren på Nornö and wanted more. To friends, colleagues, and the literary community—online and in person—who encouraged me every step of the way: thank you. You’ve kept me going.