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Elena Rivera has achieved significant success as an author, with a diverse collection of young adult fantasy and science fiction novels to her name, including the acclaimed Brooklyn Sorceresses series and stories set in the Star Wars universe. Additionally, she has penned various contemporary romance novels under the pseudonym Zoe Castillo. However, her newest work, The Legacy of Orquídea Divine, marks her first foray into general literary fiction.
In The Legacy of Orquídea Divine, Rivera narrates the tale of a grandmother and family matriarch who might possess witch-like powers. As she reveals her impending death to her family, they gather to claim their inheritance, unaware of the secrets and mysteries she is about to unveil.
Curious about why Rivera chose this moment to tell her story in this particular style, we sat down with her to explore the inspiration behind this intricate novel that intertwines generational storytelling with magical realism.
Home Insemination Kit: Your narrative is incredibly imaginative. How did it come to life?
Elena Rivera: The concept originated from a short story I wrote for an anthology titled Witches & Wisdom, which focused on women in witchcraft. The image of a woman transforming into a tree lingered with me long after I penned that piece. A few years later, I had the chance to expand that story into an adult novel, prompting me to broaden my perspective and delve into the family’s history. I constantly questioned the reasons behind their circumstances, leading to a richer exploration of their lives.
This is your first adult novel outside of romance. What led you to determine that this was not a YA story?
I wanted to delve deeper into the complexities of trauma, which I believe is present in many families, not just within Latino communities. Every family holds secrets, and this book examines how those secrets can be both volatile and essential for survival. I knew I wanted to explore themes that might not fit into the YA genre, even if the story ultimately concludes with hope.
You mentioned generational trauma, and while it isn’t exclusive to the Latino experience, it often appears in immigrant narratives. Was this on your mind while writing?
Not explicitly. As a first-generation immigrant who moved to New York at the age of six with my mother and grandmother, immigration is a part of my narrative. It’s not a tragic tale, as we weren’t fleeing danger—rather, we were seeking new beginnings. Orquídea, however, is in a desperate situation. Although my own story is less fraught, I recognize the significance of immigration in my writing. It’s woven into my characters’ lives, influencing how they search for belonging and roots.
How do you approach writing magical realism?
Honestly, I’m still figuring it out! I usually write fantasy, so stepping into magical realism was a shift for me. Initially, I intended for Orquídea Divine to be a contemporary novel with just a hint of magic. However, the story evolved, intertwining the magical with the mundane. Magical realism often serves as a lens to view the extraordinary within everyday life, particularly in marginalized communities where harsh realities can blur the line between the mundane and the miraculous.
Your work often features witches and magical women. What draws you to these themes?
I’ve always been captivated by the idea of magical powers, which symbolize rebellion and a connection to nature. When I was ten, I wrote in my diary about becoming a witch—a notion that intrigued me since childhood. For me, witchcraft embodies feminine strength and the embrace of diverse forms of womanhood.
What do you hope readers take away from your book?
I want readers to recognize their own divine powers, whether it’s their ability to uplift others or their unique gifts. Each of us possesses something special that allows us to keep moving forward, even in challenging times.
What would you like readers unfamiliar with Ecuador to learn about its culture?
Ecuador is a small yet beautiful country with a complex history, much like the rest of Latin America. I wrote The Legacy of Orquídea Divine knowing it might be the first exposure some readers have to Ecuador. I aimed to balance representing my heritage while making it accessible to a broader audience, allowing readers to see it through the eyes of those who have left and returned.
What projects are you currently working on?
I’m juggling several self-publishing projects under my pen name, Zoe Castillo, along with the next installment for my publisher, Atrium. I thrive on writing about magic and family dynamics, so there’s much more to come!
What recent reads have you enjoyed?
Recently, I loved Saint by Sofia Morales, an angsty, erotic romance about a monk and his ex-boyfriend’s European road trip. A Lot Like Adiós by Mia Torres also captivated me with its friends-to-lovers trope. Lastly, The Heart Principle by Isabella Chen, which beautifully depicts love blossoming amid personal challenges, left a lasting impression.
For more insights on home insemination and parenting, check out our other articles. You can also find great resources about the IVF process here.
Summary
In an engaging conversation, author Elena Rivera discusses her new novel The Legacy of Orquídea Divine, exploring themes of magical realism, inherited trauma, and cultural identity. By weaving her personal experiences as a first-generation immigrant into her storytelling, she creates a rich narrative that resonates with universal truths about family and resilience.