Zimbabwean-born author Sue Nyathi gave Ballito book lovers a glimpse into her writing journey on Saturday.

The 48-year-old hosted an engaging question-and-answer session at Ekhaya Guest House.

Readers and fans had the opportunity to ask the celebrated author about her novels, writing process and the Netflix adaptation of her book, The Polygamist.

Nyathi, who was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, spoke about her journey from a career in finance to becoming a full-time writer in 2018.

She revealed that The Polygamist was initially rejected by six publishers, prompting her to self-publish.

The book has since gained renewed attention following its Netflix adaptation, introducing her writing to a wider audience.

“Sales have increased exponentially since the series,” she said, adding that it had opened doors to international translation opportunities.

However, Nyathi reminded readers that the book and television series are two different works.

The series expanded on certain characters, particularly the children, whose experiences were not explored as deeply in the novel.

While she had no creative control over the TV adaptation process, she was happy with the outcome.

“The book is its own thing and the series is its own thing,” she said.

Asked about her writing process, Nyathi said she tries to write daily, usually between 9am and 3pm, and prefers working in silence.

She encouraged aspiring authors to look beyond book sales and explore other opportunities, including public speaking and reader engagements.

Nyathi said some stories require maturity and life experience before they can be told properly, revealing that she began writing The Polygamist in her 20s, but it was only published when she was in her 40s.

Speaking about her latest book, Manhood, the mother of a 12-year-old son said she wanted to encourage conversations about masculinity and positive male role models.

“Today’s young boys will become tomorrow’s men,” she said.

The gathering ended with a book-signing session, giving readers an opportunity to buy signed copies of her books.

Her books are available locally at Bargain Books.