Grateful to Share My Journey from Winning the Hay House Contest to Publishing My Novel "We Three Queens"

I am excited to share my journey over the past few months. It has been a whirlwind of motivation and inspiration for my writing career. Winning the Hay House contest in March was an incredible honor and has opened doors that I never imagined. Currently, I am negotiating a contract with Penguin Random House to publish my Christmas novel titled We Three Queens. This opportunity is both thrilling and humbling.

I am also grateful to announce that I am represented by the talented literary agent, Victoria Skurnick of Levine Greenberg Rostan in New York City. Victoria, a former editor in chief of the NY Times Book of the Month Club, brings invaluable expertise and warmth to my journey. My novel is set to release on October 27, 2026, marking the first work of fiction published by Hay House.

The Inspiration Behind We Three Queens

At the heart of We Three Queens is a touching story about the divine feminine, inspired by the narrative of the three wise men. The book follows three women from different backgrounds and faiths, mysteriously summoned to the desert on Christmas Eve. Their quest to follow the Star of Sofia leads them to the Sacred Mother, who is approaching her final moments.

This narrative is not just about the women’s journey. It explores themes of faith, hope, and charity, capturing the true essence of Christmas in the phrase “one love.” Through their diverse experiences, I aim to showcase the beauty of unity and understanding across cultures and beliefs.

Celebrating the Hay House Contest Win

Winning the Hay House contest was a life-changing experience that reaffirmed my purpose as an author. The contest provided an invaluable platform for me to share my story with others who appreciate spirituality and deeper meanings in literature.

This recognition inspired me to refine my manuscript and take concrete steps toward publication. Contests like this serve as reminders that the literary world is full of possibilities. They encourage writers to take risks, embrace their voices, and connect with a supportive community. The encouragement I received has motivated me to grow both personally and professionally.

The Role of My Literary Agent

Having Victoria Skurnick as my literary agent has been a true blessing. Her wealth of experience and passion for storytelling can only enrich my journey. As we negotiate the contract with Penguin Random House, I feel reassured knowing I have someone who genuinely believes in my project advocating for me.

Victoria has provided crucial insights into the publishing industry. She understands its complexities and her support empowers me to navigate this new phase. It is comforting to know that I am not alone in this venture; I have a strong ally by my side who shares my vision.

The Publishing Journey Ahead

As I approach the publishing stage, excitement and humility fill me. Negotiating a contract with a prominent publisher like Penguin Random House is a significant milestone in my writing career. I understand the responsibility that comes with this opportunity.

We Three Queens represents not just my journey but the journeys of countless others. I hope to amplify women’s voices and create a narrative that speaks to our shared human experience. This novel will navigate themes that remind readers of our connections and the love that binds us, urging them to reflect on their beliefs and experiences.

A serene desert landscape symbolizing the journey in We Three Queens.

Looking Forward to the Release

With the release date of October 27, 2026, approaching, I eagerly anticipate how We Three Queens will resonate with readers.

Every story deserves to be told, and I hope mine will illuminate the beauty of diversity and the power of love. As we await the publication, I am committed to sharing updates and insights into my book’s evolution and the various processes involved.

Reflecting on This Journey

My journey from winning the Hay House contest to negotiating a publishing deal with Penguin Random House has deepened my understanding of the literary world and the importance of community. We Three Queens embodies a vision of hope, faith, and love. I am thankful for the chance to share this narrative and hope to inspire others to embrace their stories and pursue their creative passions.

The adventure is just beginning, and I look forward to sharing more of it with you. Thank you for being a part of this journey. Your support means the world as I step into this new chapter of my life as an author.

Windsor Life Magazine

Recently I was featured in a story in Windsor Life Magazine. Matt St. Amand was the journalist who interviewed me and wrote this article. We talked about growing up in Windsor, my roots there and my inspiration for writing about my past.

https://issuu.com/windsorlifemagazine/docs/wlm_may24

I am very proud to be born and raised in Windsor. This is the subtitle of Book One in the Leave the Little Light On series. It is a place filled with resilient, hard working and authentic people. Diversity and multiculturalism are celebrated and accepted. The city certainly played a big role in my childhood and adolescence and I am grateful for all of my experiences there.

I hope you dive into this article and my book series. Shake what your trauma gave you! You have to feel it to heal it. That is what the books do; they take you on a journey of self-discovery through a simple story. Visit Windsor with Athena.

All the love, Sonia xo

The award winning speech...

This speech garnered the attention of the audience and the judges and has earned Sonia a place in the Speaker Slam finals in November 2024. It is entitled 'One Love'. This is the message of peace and unity that Sonia speaks to in her mission as a Love Advocate.