I’m really proud of the work I’ve done with this latest novel, Go Get the Priestess.

The story introduces Diana Bell, a Psychiatrist by trade, but also a healing practitioner. The type of healer that uses herbs and oils, prayer to the Divine masculine and feminine, and works with the land. These beliefs, passed down from her mother, are sacred. But in a family whose business is the church’s business… they make Diana an outsider.

She grew up feeling different. Shunned.

She would love to accept this as her place, but deep down, she wants to belong.

Writing From the Wound

I started this book years ago, but I put it down because Diana’s mother has passed away. As a writer, you have to get into your character’s head, and I couldn’t bring myself to want to feel that.

Sadly, my own mother passed away a couple of years later from cancer. There was no reason to hide from this story any longer.

Though this book is totally fiction based, I was born in North Carolina and I do come from a family of preachers and church owners. That is where the likeness ends.

The Black Sheep Energy

The story is really about being the black sheep of the family. My inspiration comes from a post I saw on Instagram. She asked, “aren’t we all the black sheep?”

I had to think about that and agree with her. When I talk to my friends, I realize we all feel like outsiders in some way. We all had to choose our own path. Diana’s journey mirrors that.

She learns she’s not the only one who stepped away from expectations. And she learns something else: being different doesn’t mean being wrong.

Owning Our Differences

For me, I’ve never fit into anyone’s idea of how I should be. I’ve always been labeled uncooperative. I don’t see myself that way.

I just don’t believe in stereotypes or conformity. I believe in the power of choosing your own path. I loved the moment that Diana discovered that for herself. I think she is someone that all of us can see in ourselves.

Coming This Fall!

The book is due out this Fall. (I don’t have an exact date yet.) I hope you will consider adding it to your reading list.

Let me know below in the comments what books you’ve got on your reading list. For me, I’m reading the Nameless Series by Dean Koontz. I’m on book 2, Photographing the Dead. I’m also reading The Iliad. Sometimes you just need a mix of thrillers and mythology, right?

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Happy reading!

Portia Leivette