Debut novel shines a light on trauma, healing and hope

Heidelberg Nigel Heraut journalist, Esau Dlamini (38) has taken his passion for storytelling beyond the newsroom with the release of his debut novel, Why Did I Kill My Baby?

After years of documenting the lives, struggles and triumphs of others, Dlamini has channelled his experience into an emotionally charged work of fiction inspired by real-life circumstances.

The emotionally charged novel is a work of fiction inspired by real-life circumstances.

It tackles difficult but important issues, including gender-based violence, spiritual abuse, trauma, grief, healing, forgiveness and redemption, while encouraging readers to confront the realities faced by many survivors.

Dlamini said writing has always been a lifelong passion.

“I have loved reading and writing since I was a child.

“I was also actively involved in debating and public speaking during my high school years, which helped me develop confidence in expressing ideas and telling stories.

“Over the years, journalism strengthened those skills, but I always knew that one day I wanted to write a novel that would leave a lasting impact on readers,” he said.

Although Why Did I Kill My Baby? is fictional, Dlamini said the story draws inspiration from the realities experienced by many people in South African communities.

“This is a fictional story, but it is rooted in situations that happen far too often.

“Through the novel, I wanted to give a voice to people who suffer in silence and create a story that encourages compassion, understanding and healing.

“My hope is that readers will see beyond the title, connect with the characters and reflect on the social issues that continue to affect families and communities,” he said.

Dlamini said he hopes the book will also inspire more people, especially young people, to develop a love for reading.

“One of my biggest goals is to promote a culture of reading. Books have the power to educate, inspire and transform lives, and I believe we need to encourage more people, particularly young people, to read for knowledge, personal growth and enjoyment. If this book can inspire someone to pick up another book after reading it, then I will consider that a success,” he said.

Dlamini added that he is planning a book tour across libraries and schools in Ekurhuleni, where he hopes to engage directly with readers and learners.

“I want to visit libraries and schools because I believe they are important spaces for nurturing future readers and writers.

“During the tour, I hope to share my journey as a journalist and first-time author, discuss the themes explored in the novel and encourage learners to believe that their own stories matter.

“Reading and writing can open doors, and I want young people to see books as tools that can shape their futures,” he said.

The novel follows the journey of Nyeleti Mthombeni, a young woman whose life is shattered by abuse and devastating loss before she embarks on a path of healing, self-discovery and redemption. Through her journey, Dlamini explores the lasting effects of trauma while highlighting the resilience of the human spirit.

The official launch of Why Did I Kill My Baby? will take place on August 29. Dlamini said this is only the beginning of his journey as an author.

“I want my books to spark conversations that matter. If someone finishes reading this novel feeling inspired to seek help, speak out, support a survivor, or simply view these issues with greater empathy, then I will know the book has fulfilled its purpose,” he said. Esau Dlamini