Alicia Marquez has already carved out a significant niche in the literary world, having authored a range of young adult fantasy and science fiction novels, including the acclaimed “Brooklyn Sorceresses” series and contributions to the “Star Wars” universe. Additionally, she pens contemporary romance novels under the pseudonym Zoe Castillo.
However, it is with her latest work, “The Legacy of Orquídea Divine,” that she ventures into general literary fiction. This tale centers around a matriarch who may be a witch, with family secrets that are even more enigmatic than her peculiar magic. When she reveals her impending death, her relatives gather to discover what inheritance awaits them, yet none can predict what she will leave behind.
What prompted Marquez to explore this narrative at this time and in this genre? She recently sat down with our team to discuss the inspiration behind this intricate blend of generational storytelling and magical realism, as well as her decision to shift into a new category.
Interviewer:
Your story is incredibly original. How did it come to be?
Alicia Marquez:
It all began with a short story I contributed to an anthology titled “Toil & Trouble,” which focused on women in witchcraft. I was captivated by the image of a woman transforming into a tree, and that image lingered in my mind. A few years later, I had the chance to expand that story into a novel for adults. I had to step back from that initial image and consider the bigger picture: Why is this family gathered? What events shaped them? Essentially, I kept asking myself, “Why are you like this?” until I could see the broader context.
Interviewer:
This is your first adult novel that isn’t a romance. What led you to make that distinction?
Alicia Marquez:
I wanted to explore much deeper emotional traumas than I typically would in YA literature. That’s not to suggest that YA should only be light and cheerful; all characters must face challenges on their journeys. However, “The Legacy of Orquídea Divine” delves into inherited trauma that affects families universally—not just within Latino communities. This story emphasizes how volatile family secrets can be and what lengths individuals might go to in order to survive. This realization solidified my decision to categorize it outside of YA, as I wanted to tackle more complex themes.
Interviewer:
You touched on generational trauma, which is prevalent in immigrant narratives. Was that something you thought about while writing?
Alicia Marquez:
Not explicitly. As a first-generation immigrant myself, I came to New York at six with my mother and grandmother. Our story is not tragic; we weren’t fleeing for our lives but rather seeking new opportunities. Orquídea, however, is escaping danger. That aspect of my background inevitably influences my writing. I recognize the privilege my family had in obtaining a visa, which is now a challenging process. In my works, I often weave in these experiences, even if briefly, to reflect on that journey. For Orquídea, she’s in search of belonging and roots.
Interviewer:
How do you approach the concept of magical realism?
Alicia Marquez:
Honestly, I’m not entirely sure how to write magical realism. My background is in genre fiction—fantasy, science fiction, and works for franchises like “Star Wars.” When I began “Orquídea Divine,” I intended it to be a contemporary novel, with the tree transformation as the magical element. However, as I continued writing, it organically became more infused with magical elements. Magical realism often blends the ordinary with the extraordinary, and it resonates deeply with marginalized communities, particularly in Latin America. It addresses the unexplainable and offers a lens through which to view complex realities.
Interviewer:
You certainly have a fascination with witches and magical women in your work.
Alicia Marquez:
Absolutely! The idea of possessing magical powers has always drawn me in. I recall writing in my diary at ten that I was a witch. This notion represents rebellion, a connection to nature, and feminine power that can take many forms.
Interviewer:
What do you hope readers gain from your novel?
Alicia Marquez:
I wish for readers to recognize their own unique power—whether it’s a smile that brightens someone’s day or the ability to uplift others. Everyone carries something within them that defines their uniqueness and propels them forward.
Interviewer:
For those unfamiliar with Ecuador, what insights do you want to share about its culture?
Alicia Marquez:
Ecuador may be small, but it is rich in beauty and complexity, much like the entirety of Latin America. I crafted this book with the understanding that it could be someone’s first encounter with Ecuador. It’s a balancing act between writing for Ecuadorians and for English-speaking audiences. The characters who have never visited Ecuador serve as a perspective for readers, much like how I experience my own visits. It may not encapsulate the entirety of Ecuador, but it offers a glimpse into its richness.
Interviewer:
What projects are currently on your horizon?
Alicia Marquez:
I’m working on several self-publishing projects under my pen name, Zoe Castillo, alongside another book for my publisher. I continually have multiple projects going on, and I aim to keep weaving themes of magic and family into my writing. If readers enjoyed “The Legacy of Orquídea Divine,” I have a substantial backlist to keep them engaged until my next release!
Interviewer:
What recent reads have captivated you?
Alicia Marquez:
I’ve been diving into numerous books lately. A few favorites include “Saint” by Sierra Simone, which is a beautifully written, angsty romance about a monk and his ex-boyfriend on a beer road trip across Europe; “A Lot Like Adiós” by Alexis Daria, a delightful friends-to-lovers story with family dynamics; and “The Heart Principle” by Helen Hoang, which tells a poignant tale of love amidst life’s upheavals.
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Summary
Alicia Marquez’s latest novel, “The Legacy of Orquídea Divine,” explores themes of generational trauma, the immigrant experience, and magical realism. Through the lens of a family gathering to discover their inheritance from a witch-like matriarch, Marquez delves into complex family dynamics and the secrets that bind them. Her journey from YA to adult fiction allows her to tackle deeper emotional themes while celebrating cultural roots and the strength of individuality.
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