Author Natacha Belair in hometown of Aylmer for book signing

Colin Clark

Natacha Belair, born and raised in the region, has written and recently published her first novel, “A Stellar Purpose”.  The novel is written for young adults, yet stellar review-after-review have it as a great read for all ages.  A Stellar Purpose has been growing in popularity since its release in late 2022.

The novel itself has been a finalist in several literary categories, including the 19th annual Best Book Awards, and has a 5-star award from Readers Views.com. 

The path to publishing was not easy, and she could easily have quit, given the critical nature of the industry, yet she persevered and is now published by one of the world’s largest publishers, Koehler Books.

“The idea came to me in a dream,” said Belair. “I knew nothing about writing novels so this type of writing was new.  I took online classes, and afterwards I wrote for about 2 years (…). I eventually submitted my manuscript to about 50 publishers, learned how to deal with criticism, and I adjusted and edited continuously. Eventually Koehler and another publisher, made me an offer, and I accepted Koehler’s offer.”

Fittingly, Belair set up her first book signing at Librarie Michabou in her hometown at Galeries Aylmer April 

Photo caption: Author Natacha Belair at Book Signing

Photo credit: Clark Colin