When Daniel and I set sail on our grand adventure, we never imagined how deeply each destination would imprint itself on our souls—or how these experiences would inspire my writing. Puerto Rico was no exception.
As we navigated our way toward the vibrant shores of this Caribbean jewel, I had no idea that the lush forests and historic streets would shape one of the most memorable characters in The Seven: Paloma Ortega Sanchez.
The Enchantment of El Yunque
We rented a car for the day and set off toward the misty mountain tops of El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. It was like stepping into another world—a dense, emerald jungle teeming with life. Coqui frogs sang their melodic chirps, hidden birds called from the treetops, and vines twisted around towering trees that had stood for centuries. The forest is home to over 240 species of plants and animals, including the endangered Puerto Rican parrot, tree frogs, lizards, and countless types of orchids and ferns. The abundant waterfalls, such as La Mina Falls and La Coca Falls, add to the rainforest’s allure, drawing hikers and nature lovers from around the world.
The forest breathed with mystery, its canopy shifting in the breeze as if whispering forgotten tales. I wished we had time to take a horseback ride along the many rivers and paths threading through the mountains, but time was not on our side. Even so, I could feel the spirit of the island pulling me deeper into its story.
The Living History of Old San Juan
Our next stop was Old San Juan, a place where past and present seamlessly blend. The cobblestone streets, lined with pastel-colored buildings, echoed with the footsteps of generations who had walked them before. We wandered past the formidable walls of Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century fortress standing guard over the turquoise waters of the Atlantic. The air smelled of salt and warm bread, the result of nearby bakeries filling the streets with the scent of fresh pan sobao.
Puerto Rico’s history is alive in its architecture, its people, and its rhythms. This old city, with its Spanish colonial charm and vibrant energy, became the backdrop for Paloma’s roots. Some of the most popular places to visit include Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest Spanish fort in the Americas, offering panoramic views of the city and ocean; La Fortaleza, the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the New World; and the iconic Calle Fortaleza, a picturesque street lined with colorful umbrellas or Puerto Rican flags. Plaza de Armas, the heart of Old San Juan, is a wonderful place to people-watch, while the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista houses the tomb of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León.
The Legacy of the Paso Fino
No story about Puerto Rico would be complete without mentioning the island’s treasured Paso Fino horses. These elegant, smooth-gaited horses arrived on the island with Spanish conquistadors in the 1500s. Descended from Andalusians, Barbs, and Spanish Jennets, the Paso Fino developed into a breed known for its effortless gait and incredible endurance.
For centuries, these horses have been prized for their smooth ride, making them ideal for traversing Puerto Rico’s rugged terrain. Today, they are still a source of national pride, competing in equestrian events and remaining a beloved part of the island’s culture. Their spirit embodies the grace and resilience of Puerto Rico itself—a land that has weathered storms yet continues to thrive, strong and beautiful.
A Story Rooted in Reality
When writing The Seven, I wanted Paloma’s story to reflect the heart of Puerto Rico—its lush landscapes, its deep history, and the horses that have carried its people for generations. She is a character shaped by the island, just as I was deeply inspired by my time there.
Puerto Rico left an undeniable mark on me, and I hope that through Paloma’s story, readers will feel its magic as well. If you ever have the chance to visit, take a ride through the rainforest, listen to the calls of the coqui, and let the island’s stories wrap around you like a warm, tropical breeze.
And if you can’t make the journey in person, I invite you to step into Paloma’s world within the pages of The Seven—where history, adventure, and the spirit of Puerto Rico come to life.
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