The year 2025 feels meaningful in many ways, but above all because I can finally say this out loud: this is my year as an author. Every year brings new stories, but this one feels like a step forward – both as a writer and as a person.
Lumina Continues Its Journey
Lumina has remained a strong presence throughout 2025. It has been deeply moving to see how the book has found its readers across different age groups and life stages. Every message, meeting, and conversation reminds me why I started writing in the first place: stories connect us.
This year, Lumina truly found its voice through literary events, where the interest, warmth, and curiosity of readers were tangible.
Helsinki and Jyväskylä Book Fairs – Encounters Among Thousands
Some of the highlights of 2025 were undoubtedly the Helsinki Book Fair and the Jyväskylä Book Fair. The Helsinki Book Fair welcomed an impressive 104,000 visitors, while the Jyväskylä Book Fair brought together around 16,000 book lovers.
At these events, I had the opportunity to appear on stage, discuss my work, and meet readers face to face. Despite the large crowds, the encounters themselves felt personal and meaningful. There were thoughtful questions about the origins of the story, mythological influences, and the world of Lumina, and many readers stopped to share how the book had resonated with them.
I was especially happy to see how wide-ranging Lumina’s audience is. I spoke with young fantasy readers as well as older audiences, all drawn to the story in their own way. Moments like these make being an author truly rewarding and reaffirm that stories can transcend age.
Writing, In-Between Spaces, and New Worlds
A writer’s year is not made up of events and appearances alone. It also consists of quiet moments, unfinished manuscripts, notes, and ideas that are still searching for their shape.
In 2026, I allow myself to write bravely, to experiment, to make mistakes, and to grow. Often, it is within uncertainty and unfinished ideas that new worlds begin to take form.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
I move forward from this year with deep gratitude – gratitude for the readers who have embraced Lumina, and for all the encounters made possible by the Helsinki and Jyväskylä Book Fairs. At the same time, I remain curious and open to whatever stories the future may bring.
If you are here as a reader, a fellow traveler, or simply passing by – thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s see together what stories the years ahead will write.
Warm regards,
Heidi
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