A Book Taking Shape and a fantastic day with members of the Danish Club of Seattle

Autumn is my favorite season. I love the red, brown, and golden hues, the scent of damp earth, cinnamon, and vanilla, the dark evenings with candlelights, and reading under a blanket with my dogs by my side in front of the fireplace. It’s the season for reflection and for creating. 

A Talk at Café Hagen 

Recently, I had the joy of feeling that spark again – like a spirited circus horse in the ring – when I gave a talk at Café Hagen in Bellevue, invited by the Danish Club of Seattle. It had been a while since I last stood in front of an audience (apart from my book launch in June), and I’ll admit I was nervous. 

“You know what to say – after all, you wrote the book.” My husband said. He was right. Once I stood there, the words flowed naturally. My PowerPoint slides were all I needed, and I enjoyed every moment. The audience was engaged, curious, and asked wonderful questions. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came – you made the day truly special. 

The Scandinavian War Bride – The English Edition 

About half of the attendees were Americans, and asked when they could read the English version. The answer is: soon! We’re putting the final touches on the translation, and I expect the English edition of Den danske krigsbrud – titled The Scandinavian War Bride – to be released before the end of the year. 

Next week I’ll meet with my designer to discuss the cover, and by the end of the month, the manuscript will go to final proofreading before layout and publication as paperback, hardcover, and e-book. I’ll keep you updated on the process. 

A New Book Emerging 

Meanwhile, a new book is slowly taking shape – the one I talked about last month about exploring the impact of an absent father on girls and women. My idea is to lead the reader from a child’s perception of fairy tales toward a more adult understanding of their hidden meanings. It might sound a little abstract, but that’s how beginnings often feel – like sensing that something important is waiting to be discovered. 

The work is exciting – and demanding. I had imagined writing it in just a few months, but I’m learning that understanding takes longer than writing. I’m working as fast as I can, but the mind needs time to catch up. This subject requires honesty, depth, and patience. 

A Title in Transition 

The working title has been Who Are You, Father?, but I’ve realized the focus belongs on the girl and the woman – not the absent father. Frankly, he doesn’t deserve the title. 

If you’re interested in exploring this topic from a Jungian perspective, I highly recommend psychologist and author Susan E. Schwartz, whose work offers profound insights into father–daughter dynamics and women’s development. 

What About Kirsten in America? 

The sequel to The Danish War Bride is still whispering in the back of my mind. I know many of you are wondering how Kirsten’s life in America unfolds. Can she and Forest make it work? Will she become a mother? Will she feel at home on the other side of the ocean? 

I’ve outlined many of the chapters, though only the first one is fully written. The rest are notes and ideas waiting for their time. Research is well underway – right now, I’m reading The Birth House, a novel about midwives and home births in the early 1900s, to capture the vulnerability and strength of women in their most intimate moments. 

I’ve also realized that it is hard to work on two books at the same time. Both projects are alive and tug at me from morning until night. Although demanding, I love it when my brain is at work and new thoughts take shape. 

Writing Retreat and BogForum 

At the end of the month, I’m heading to a four-day writing retreat at a friend’s cabin in the mountains, about an hour’s drive from home. I’ve been there before, and surrounded by towering evergreens, I always find peace, inspiration, and room to let creativity unfold. 

In November, I’ll travel to Denmark with Andreas and the kids for BogForum in Copenhagen, which takes place Friday, November 7 through Sunday, November 9. You’ll find me at Byens Forlag’s booth C1-026 on Saturday and Sunday from 2–4 PM – please stop by and say hello! 

Until Next Time 

The next newsletter will arrive after BogForum. Until then, thank you for reading, for cheering me on, and for sharing this journey with me. 

Autumn is the season for writing – and I can’t wait to share more about my process. 

With love, Désirée