What if facing painful truths could lead you to a deeper connection with your heritage? That’s the question I found myself asking as I embarked on the journey of writing my upcoming novel, Under the Flamboyant Tree. It has been a journey of self-discovery and healing, a heartfelt exploration of family secrets, cultural identity, and the power of returning to our roots.

In the first episode of this month’s Have a Cup of Johanny podcast series, I take you behind the scenes of my writing process, where I share how the character of Bianca Ramirez became a vessel for my own experiences. Bianca’s story is a mirror to my Dominican roots, reflecting the challenges and joys of reconnecting with my homeland. Writing about Bianca’s homecoming to the Dominican Republic made me confront some uncomfortable truths about my past and heritage, truths that are often easier to leave unspoken.

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Exploring Themes of Family Secrets and Cultural Identity

Bianca’s journey back to the Dominican Republic is more than just a plotline—it’s a tribute to my own emotional process of drafting and editing a novel that is deeply personal. Through Bianca’s eyes, I navigate themes of family secrets and cultural identity, themes that resonate with so many of us who have had to balance our personal truths with the expectations and history of our families. It’s about embracing who we are and where we come from, even when the past is painful or complicated.

Writing as a Form of Healing

Writing Under the Flamboyant Tree has been both challenging and healing. Putting myself in Bianca’s shoes allowed me to process my own experiences, blending fiction with reality in a way that made my story feel both familiar and transformative. I found myself growing alongside Bianca, feeling her struggles and triumphs as my own.

This season of the podcast is all about growth—personal, cultural, and emotional. It’s about the stories that shape us and the importance of reconnecting with our roots. I encourage you to consider your own life-shaping stories and how reconnecting with your heritage might bring new understanding and healing.

Join the Conversation

I would love to hear from you. How have your roots shaped your journey? What stories do you carry with you, and how have they influenced the person you are today? Let’s navigate these challenging personal journeys together. Whether you’re an avid storyteller, a reader, or someone seeking self-discovery, this conversation is for you.

Preorder & Stay Connected

If you’re excited about Under the Flamboyant Tree and want to stay updated on its release, consider preordering the book or signing up for the book’s newsletter. Be the first to receive exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Click [here] to preorder or sign up for the newsletter and join me on this incredible journey of storytelling, growth, and cultural connection.

Thank you for being part of this community, and I can’t wait to share more of Bianca’s story with you. Stay tuned for the next podcast episode.