A New Mystery Series Takes Shape in Spain

Finding Inspiration Amidst Challenges

For a time, it felt like the fire had gone out. Leaving the U.S. under political pressure and realizing I could no longer safely return to Ghana—the setting of both my Darko Dawson and Emma Djan series—was creatively stifling. However, stories don’t fade quietly. A new spark ignited, and with it, a fresh mystery series began to emerge.

At the center is a horse trainer with a painful past, a sharp mind, and an unwavering sense of truth. Imagine the intensity of Dick Francis meets the atmosphere of Tana French, underlined by this truth: Horses never lie. People do.

A Landscape Made for Mystery

The Covadonga Lakes, Asturias (Image: Calimo Alonso)

The breathtaking setting? Asturias, in northern Spain. This lush, green region is characterized by mountains, mist, and winding trails. Here, horses are not merely background; they are integral to the culture. Asturias boasts a rich equestrian tradition that provides fertile ground for suspenseful storytelling.

🐎 Spain’s Equestrian Legacy

While Asturias enchants with its rustic charm, Spain’s equestrian heritage runs deep. The Andalusian horse—Spain’s most iconic breed—was once favored by kings and conquistadors alike. Known for its strength, nobility, and elegance, the Andalusian has influenced riding styles across Europe and the Americas.

Andalusian Stallion (Image: Missi Köpf/Pexels)

🏙 Oviedo vs. Barcelona: Two Spains

My family found Barcelona diverse and welcoming. In contrast, Oviedo holds onto a more reserved, traditional, and less multicultural feel.

Modern Barcelona skyline with the Torre Glòries in background (Image:: Berk Ozdemir/Pexels)

Church of Santa Maria del Banco from the 9th century (Image: asturias.com)

As a Black American, I expect to stand out. I don’t anticipate animosity—just curiosity, perhaps accompanied by some unconscious bias. After all, we all harbor some biases to a degree. That’s familiar territory.

📚 Africans in Spain: A Forgotten History

Spain’s history is not solely defined by Catholicism and Castilian culture. During periods of Muslim rule, Africans—including Black Moors—held significant positions. They were scholars, generals, kings, and statesmen. Their contributions helped shape the cultural DNA of Al-Andalus.

The Moorish Chief, by Edouart Charlemont   Philadelphia Museum of Art

Today, however, Afro-Spaniards are often invisible. Blackness in Spain frequently exists on the sidelines.

🔍 The Racial Spectrum in Spain

On YouTube and in various forums, Black expats share a complex picture of race in Spain. Some recount experiences of microaggressions, while others discuss a hierarchy within Blackness. Light-skinned African Americans are often romanticized, whereas dark-skinned West Africans may face prejudice. These dynamics reflect lingering colonial legacies. They are uncomfortable, but they are real—and these themes will inevitably find their way into my fiction.

🚶🏾‍♂️ Facing Forward—Aware, Not Afraid

Two Mexican Americans recently remarked, “The Spanish are racist.” This thought lingered with me. It reveals much about Latin America’s troubled relationship with its former colonizer, as well as contemporary Spain.

I’m not heading to Spain for approval. My goal is to live, to write, and to create. Stories are resurfacing, and this time, they rise from the vibrant heart of Spain.

Conclusion: The Beginning of a New Journey

In this new chapter of my life, I look forward to blending my experiences into a compelling narrative. My mystery series set in Asturias will explore themes of identity, truth, and resilience. By interweaving the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Spain, I hope to engage readers in ways that resonate deeply.

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Here, I aim to capture the essence of my journey. I wish to convey heartfelt emotions, unravel mysteries, and stem from my experiences. The intersection of different cultures enriches storytelling, creating a rich tapestry that we can all connect to. I invite you to join me on this thrilling adventure!