Born and raised in Thembisa, author and storyteller Lindiwe Khoza has never allowed a speech impediment to define her or silence her dreams.

Instead, she found her voice through writing.

Since primary school, pen and paper have been her preferred means of expression, allowing her to communicate her thoughts, ideas and imagination with confidence.

“Growing up, I dreamed of becoming an actor. However, I realised that writing allowed me to bring my imagination and ideas to life in a unique way.

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“Through writing, I can tell stories that inspire, educate and entertain others. Today, I proudly use my gift of storytelling to share meaningful stories with the world,” she said.

Her latest book, I Fell In Love With My Son, began as an idea she could not let go of.

“The story stayed in my mind for a long time. I found myself constantly thinking about and writing about a mother who was torn between two worlds.

“Her love was tested in ways that challenged her emotionally. The more I wrote, the more connected I felt to her journey, and I eventually realised it was a story worth publishing and sharing with others,” Khoza explained.

Writing has become part of her daily routine.

“I write every day. Sometimes I even sleep with a pen and notebook nearby because ideas can come at any time. Whenever inspiration strikes, I make sure to capture it before it disappears,” she said.

Although every chapter is special to her, Khoza says Chapter 10 resonates the most.

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“In this chapter, Mbuso, who is both a son and a boyfriend, faces many challenges. Despite everything he goes through, he never forgets the valuable lessons and wisdom passed down by his great-grandmother.

I connect with his resilience and his ability to hold on to important life lessons during difficult times.”

She admitted that some of the most difficult parts of the novel were the emotional scenes where characters were forced to make painful decisions.

“As a writer, I became deeply connected to the characters, so bringing their struggles to life was both challenging and emotional.”

Khoza wrote the book during the Covid-19 pandemic, a period she says shaped both the writing process and her personal growth.

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“Writing this book changed me for the better. It taught me patience, empathy and the importance of understanding different perspectives. It also helped me grow as both a writer and a person.

“Looking back, I wish I had known more about conducting in-depth research. I wanted to explore the concept of love more deeply and understand whether love can ever truly disappear. More research would have strengthened certain aspects of the story.”

She welcomes constructive criticism, believing it is an important part of developing as a writer.

“I don’t take criticism personally. Instead, I listen carefully, identify areas where I can improve and apply those lessons where necessary while staying true to my vision as a writer.”

One of the biggest lessons she hopes readers take from the novel is that love is not always defined by blood.

“One of the most surprising things I learned is that love comes in many different forms. In the story, Nandi is raised by strangers who have no children of their own, yet they show her the love and care she desperately needs. This taught me that the people who choose to love and support you can become your true family.”

Khoza believes thorough research is one of the most important aspects of writing but also encourages writers to challenge traditional storytelling techniques when it benefits the story.

“Good research helps create authentic and believable stories. At the same time, writers should not be afraid to break traditional storytelling rules if it allows creativity to flourish.”

If her novel were ever adapted for the big screen, there is one scene she believes must remain.

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“The scene where Nandi arrives at her boyfriend’s house, unaware of the truth that connects their families, is a powerful and emotional moment that changes the direction of the story and leaves a lasting impact on the reader.”

Looking ahead, Khoza plans to continue writing stories that explore themes of love, family, resilience, disability awareness and social issues.

“I am passionate about telling stories that inspire people, challenge perspectives and give a voice to experiences that are often overlooked. I look forward to continuing my journey as a writer and sharing many more stories with the world.”