It’s happening! The Ordinary Bruja is growing into something truly special, and I’m beyond excited to share an update with you all. If you’ve been following along with my journey, you know that this book is close to my heart. It’s a blend of magical realism, identity exploration, and the deep roots of Dominican culture. And today, I’m giving you a little sneak peek into the world I’m building, alongside the character who’s become a part of me—Marisol.

The Journey So Far

I’ve been working on The Ordinary Bruja for a while now, and it’s evolving in ways I never anticipated. Marisol’s journey—her quest for identity, self-discovery, and the uncovering of ancestral wisdom—is unfolding with each chapter. From the moment I began crafting her story, I knew she would be someone who felt very real to readers, someone you’d root for, question, and perhaps even find pieces of yourself in.

If you’ve listened to my podcast, Have a Cup of Johanny, particularly the February 5 episode (check it out below) you might’ve heard bits and pieces about Marisol and The Ordinary Bruja. But now, I’m ready to share more than just the background. The essence of this story is coming to life, and I want to give you a taste of it.

What’s New?

So, what’s the latest update on The Ordinary Bruja? Well, let’s just say that things are getting intense! I’ve been getting into the family dynamics that shape Marisol. The relationship between her and her mother, Josefina, has been a pivotal part of this story—one marked by a complicated balance of guilt, pride, and cultural expectations.

Meanwhile, Marisol’s grandmother, Belén, is an embodiment of Dominican wisdom—her voice, is tough, dry with that sing song Dominicanness that my kinfolk are known for. She’s been a guiding force for Marisol, but what happens when that guidance isn’t enough? As the story progresses, I’m exploring what it means for Marisol to break free from the familiar, embrace her power, and confront the obstacles in her way. Her journey is one of personal growth, as well as a deep dive into her cultural identity.

But I won’t spoil everything just yet. What I will share is that I’ve added new scenes that push Marisol’s transformation into unexpected territories—where love, magic, and identity collide. Every chapter is adding more layers, pulling readers deeper into her world. It’s not just about magic, it’s about belonging.

Why This Story Matters

The Ordinary Bruja isn’t just about magic, it’s about identity—about finding your place in a world that doesn’t always see you as you see yourself. For Marisol, her journey is about reconnecting with her roots, understanding the complex relationship with her family, and discovering how to balance heritage with the modern world. It’s a story about embracing who you truly are, even when it’s messy, complex, and challenging.

For me, as an author, this book represents a celebration of Dominican culture, identity, of magic, and of the complexities of family life. And while Marisol’s story is rooted in the particularities of her heritage, her journey is universal. We all search for our place in the world, and sometimes that search means unraveling who we were, who we are, and who we want to be.

What’s Coming Next?

With each draft, the story grows stronger. I’m refining Marisol’s voice, deepening the cultural connections, and ensuring that The Ordinary Bruja feels like a world you could step into. As I work through the final stages of editing, there are still many surprises in store. I’m excited to dive into some intense plot points and have more magical moments unfold in ways I’m sure will surprise you!

And here’s a hint: Marisol isn’t alone on her journey. She’s about to face some truly challenging obstacles, but with her, she’ll carry the wisdom of her ancestors—and a little bit of that Dominican magic that runs deep in our blood.

How You Can Get Involved

I’m incredibly grateful to all of you who have supported me on this journey. Whether you’ve read my updates, followed along on social media, or listened to the podcast, your energy and excitement mean everything. If you want to stay updated on The Ordinary Bruja, make sure to sign up for my Substack or follow me on Instagram and Twitter. I’ll be dropping exclusive updates, snippets, and behind-the-scenes content that you won’t want to miss.

This book is becoming more than just a story. It’s a community—a space for all of us to explore identity, magic, and the ties that bind us to our past.

Let’s Celebrate Marisol’s Journey Together!

I can’t wait to continue this journey with you. Stay tuned, because Marisol’s story is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.

Thank you for being part of this adventure. You’re a part of the magic too.

PS: Can you believe this started as a teensy tiny novel and now is a full length novel?!!! Gosh, there was so much ‘meat’ there. I can’t wait for you all to read it.