From Pain to Passion: Pharmacist Virginia Major Debuts as a Romance Novelist

When faced with unexpected health challenges, many individuals seek solace and distraction. For Virginia Major, a distinguished pharmacist, this period of adversity unexpectedly ignited a dormant passion: writing.

Confined to her home while recovering from a debilitating leg injury, Major, a woman renowned for her active lifestyle and unwavering determination, found herself drawn to the written word. To her own surprise, 400 pages later, she had completed her debut novel, “Embers Ignited” – a captivating romance novel.

This remarkable achievement was particularly unexpected, as Major had no prior experience in creative writing. At the book’s unveiling in the exclusive Old GRA district of Port Harcourt, she shared the inspiring journey that led to this literary debut.

“Facing a challenging prognosis and the prospect of limited mobility was deeply unsettling,” Major confessed to the assembled guests. “However, I realized I needed a distraction, a way to occupy my mind and find solace.”

With a renewed sense of purpose, Major, a woman known for her exceptional achievements in education, career, and family life, began to explore the world of writing. “Within 48 hours of asking Google ‘how to write a book,’ I was surprised to receive numerous offers from publishing houses, despite having no manuscript to present,” she recalled.

Guided by a virtual writing coach, Major embarked on a rigorous writing regimen, dedicating hours each day to her craft. “The writing process itself became a form of therapy,” she explained. “It allowed me to channel my emotions and explore the depths of my creativity.”

However, the path to publication was not without its challenges. “Sharing my intention to write a romance novel with my friends and family met with some unexpected resistance,” Major confessed. “Some expressed concerns about the perceived ‘explicitness’ of the genre, while others questioned the appropriateness of such a venture for a woman of her stature.”

Undeterred, Major navigated these concerns with grace and humor, ultimately choosing to infuse the novel with subtle romantic elements while staying true to her own values.

“Embers Ignited” has garnered critical acclaim, receiving positive reviews from esteemed literary figures such as Professor Priye Iyalla-Amadi. The novel explores the universal human experiences of love, loss, and longing, resonating with readers on a deeply emotional level.

Ibim Semenitari, a close niece of Virginia Major, eloquently described her aunt’s remarkable journey, highlighting her dedication to service, her passion for community, and her multifaceted talents.

“Virginia is a woman of many dimensions,” Semenitari shared. “She is a renowned Rotarian, a dedicated philanthropist, a skilled artist, and a loving family member. Her commitment to empowering women and girls, particularly through education, is truly inspiring.”

Semenitari also emphasized Major’s strong connection to her Opobo roots, her vibrant personality, and her unwavering dedication to her family.

“Virginia is a true inspiration to us all,” Semenitari concluded. “Her journey from pharmacist to published author demonstrates the power of resilience, creativity, and the human spirit.”

The event showcased the strong sense of community that characterizes the Opobo people. The outpouring of support from family, friends, and colleagues was evident throughout the evening.

The book unveiling was a resounding success, with notable figures such as Engineer Adokiye Tombomieye, a Knight of the Order of the Niger, serving as chairman and Barrister Mike Epelle unveiling the book.

The event also featured captivating musical interludes by Nathan Adiele and Joy, adding a touch of elegance to the occasion.

The presence of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), led by President Joy Esuku, further underscored the literary significance of this event.

Virginia Major’s debut novel, “Embers Ignited,” is a testament to her remarkable journey, her unwavering spirit, and the enduring power of creativity.