When writing The Seven, each character’s story was infused with personal meaning, drawn from my travels and the places that left a lasting impact on me. Sophia Santiago’s journey was no exception. Her story is deeply tied to the Algarve, a stunning coastal region in Portugal, where my husband and I spent five unforgettable months in Lagos while our sailboat’s mast was being repaired. During that time, the Algarve became more than just a temporary stop—it became a place that found its way into my heart and, ultimately, into my writing.
Our days were filled with wandering along the rugged seaside paths of the Algarve cliffs, taking in the raw beauty of towering limestone formations against the deep blue Atlantic. When not exploring the coastline, we ventured inland, where I often spotted striking white horses grazing in pastures or moving freely through the rolling hills. Curious, I discovered that these were Lusitano horses, a breed native to Portugal with a fascinating history dating back thousands of years.
The Legacy of the Lusitano Horse
The Lusitano horse is one of the oldest saddle horse breeds in the world, with origins tracing back over 4,000 years. Named after Lusitania, the ancient Roman name for Portugal, these horses were revered for their agility, intelligence, and bravery. Historically, they were the mounts of choice for Portuguese warriors and played a crucial role in classical dressage and bullfighting. Over time, Lusitanos became known for their remarkable ability to perform intricate movements with grace, making them highly sought after for equestrian sports and working equitation. Their connection to Portugal’s culture and history runs deep, and spotting them in the Algarve felt like glimpsing a living piece of the country’s heritage.
As we sailed into small fishing villages along the Algarve, we became immersed in the region’s strong maritime traditions. The people of the Algarve have lived in harmony with the sea for centuries, their lives shaped by fishing, shipbuilding, and trade. The beauty of this place—its dramatic cliffs, vibrant culture, and breathtaking ocean views—left a powerful visual imprint on my memory, and I knew it had to be the backdrop for one of The Seven’s characters. That character became Sophia Santiago.
The Dream of the Comrades Ultramarathon
In The Seven, Sophia Santiago dreams of competing in one of the most grueling endurance races in the world—the Comrades Ultramarathon in South Africa. This legendary race, first held in 1921, is the oldest ultramarathon in the world, spanning approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) between the cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg. It was originally conceived to honor South African soldiers who fought in World War I, symbolizing the endurance, resilience, and camaraderie of those who served.
The race alternates direction each year, either “up” from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, or “down” in the opposite direction, each presenting its own brutal challenges of extreme elevation and punishing distances. Runners push themselves to the absolute limit, not only physically but mentally, embodying the race’s motto: It Will Humble You.
My inspiration for weaving this race into Sophia’s story came from my cousin, Kimmy, who spent time in Africa and dreamed of one day competing in the Comrades Ultramarathon. When she described it to me, I was awestruck by the sheer strength and courage required to undertake such a feat. The idea of dedicating oneself to something so grueling and meaningful resonated deeply with me, and I knew it had to become part of Sophia’s journey.
Fact and Fiction Intertwined
While Sophia Santiago’s story is a work of fiction, it is steeped in the reality of places, history, and people who have left a mark on my life. The Algarve’s beauty, the noble Lusitano horses, and the endurance of those who take on the Comrades Ultramarathon all blend to shape her character’s world.
Read all about Sophia’s journey in The Seven and experience the landscapes, history, and dreams that shaped her path. Just as my travels have inspired my writing, I hope her story inspires readers to explore, dream, and embrace the challenges that define them.
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