Driving for Justice follows a successful lawyer who becomes a Laafia car driver. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The inspiration really came from observing the hectic pace and priorities of modern professional life. I was intrigued by the idea of someone with a high-stress, prestigious career making the unexpected choice to embrace a simpler, and more interpersonal job on the side. The act of driving, which is physically linear but can be emotionally and philosophically meandering, seemed like the perfect metaphor to explore John’s unexpected journey of self-discovery. It’s about the roads we take, the stops we make along the way, and the passengers—each carrying their unique stories—that join us during the ride.

John takes great pleasure in driving and meeting new people in his part-time job, learning their stories, and, in the process, learning more about himself. What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?

Human vulnerability and resilience strike me as profoundly compelling themes for fiction. In Driving for Justice, John’s encounters with various passengers highlight these aspects beautifully. Each person he meets represents different facets of life—hope, despair, ambition, and regret. I find the concept of strangers opening up in the confined space of a car fascinating. It’s a safe space where conversations can veer into personal territories more freely, revealing the raw and real layers of personality that we often hide from the outside world. This setting allows exploration of how our interactions shape us and the poignant truth that everyone has a story worth telling.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

Several themes are central to Driving for Justice. First, the themes of redemption and self-discovery are crucial as we follow John’s journey from a life he no longer finds fulfilling to one where he rediscovers his passion and purpose. Second, the idea of empathy and connection emerges as a powerful theme. John’s day-to-day experiences emphasize that understanding and kindness can have far-reaching effects on people’s lives, including our own. Finally, the theme of justice—what it means and how it can be achieved outside traditional frameworks—is explored through John’s establishment of a pro-bono legal clinic, highlighting his evolution from a career-driven lawyer to a community-focused advocate. Each of these themes challenges the reader to think about the impact of their choices and the potential we all have to effect change in our environments.

In Driving for Justice, several key themes shaped the narrative and enriched the story’s depth and complexity. These themes not only drive the plot but also invite readers to engage with broader social and personal issues:

1. Redemption and Transformation: Central to the novel is the protagonist, John’s journey of redemption and personal transformation. John seeks a simpler life and redemption for past choices that may have prioritized success over personal fulfillment. His role as a Laafia car driver symbolizes his quest for a more meaningful existence, suggesting that true fulfillment often comes from unexpected sources.
   
2. Empathy and Human Connection: The novel strongly emphasizes empathy and the transformative power of human connection. Through his interactions with passengers, John discovers the diverse embroidery of human experiences and challenges. These encounters serve as a reminder of the common humanity shared by all, regardless of their backgrounds or current circumstances, and they foster a deeper understanding of empathy as essential to personal and societal well-being.
   
3. Justice and Accessibility: Another significant theme is the concept of justice, especially social justice. As a high-profile lawyer, John reflects on the inadequacies of the formal justice system in terms of reaching and protecting all individuals equitably. His decision to start a pro-bono legal clinic underscores the theme of justice and accessibility to everyone, particularly the underprivileged, and highlights individuals’ role in addressing systemic inequalities.
   
4. The Human Stories Within the Urban Experience: The city itself is a backdrop against which various human stories unfold. The novel explores how urban environments shape the lives and experiences of its inhabitants, emphasizing the idea that every individual has a story and that these stories are worth hearing. This theme invites readers to look beyond the surface of busy urban life to understand the struggles, dreams, and resilience of those living within it.
   
5. Self-Discovery and Identity: John’s transformation also prompts him to question and redefine his identity. The theme of self-discovery is woven throughout the narrative as John evaluates his past, considers his present, and makes choices about his future. This theme resonates with readers exploring what it means to live authentically.
   
6. The Power of Small Acts: The novel celebrates the notion that small acts of kindness and understanding can have profound impacts. Each of John’s drives encapsulates this theme, as even brief interactions can illuminate truths, alter perspectives, or provide comfort. It illustrates how ordinary moments can lead to extraordinary revelations and changes.

What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?

I am currently working on a novel. As I fine-tune the elements of these stories, considering various factors that will shape their final forms, I will soon decide on the final title and when it will reach my readers. I eagerly look forward to sharing this news with my fans. Stay tuned for updates and teasers that I hope will whet your appetite for the romantic journeys ahead!