The beginning of the literary journey
Natalia Gisbert, a talented writer, psychologist and doctor, has been awarded the XXIX edition of the Enric Valor novel prize in Valencian for her work ‘After the Salt’. Set in her beloved hometown, Alcoi, this story has captured the attention and admiration of the jury.
A path full of reflection
Gisbert’s journey towards this prestigious award began in 2021 with the release of ‘Vi i veritat’. Although the idea for ‘After Salt’ arose during that year, it was not until the end of 2022 that the writer was able to finish the manuscript. However, Natalia initially had no plans to submit her work to competitions as large as this one.
Driven by external motivation
Despite having written the novel, Gisbert was reluctant to participate in such important literary competitions. He thought these awards were reserved for more experienced writers. However, the constant encouragement from her surroundings led her to make the decision to send her work to the contest, although without great expectations.
Surprises and satisfactions
Gratitude and surprise were the predominant feelings upon receiving the news of the award. Natalia expresses her joy at having been recognized despite not having studied philology, which she believes could have given her more tools and vocabulary for her writing.
Crucial decisions in your training
Natalia made the decision to study psychology and medicine due to concerns about job opportunities in philology. However, she remains curious about what her life would have been like if she had followed her linguistic passion from the beginning. She does not rule out the possibility of studying philology in the future to deepen her love for the language.
Fundamental support from childhood
A key figure in Gisbert’s path has been his 5th grade tutor, who always believed in his talent for writing. Her tutor motivated her to dedicate herself to journalism and writing, encouraging her to follow her literary dreams. This unconditional support has been a fundamental pillar in her development as a writer.
Balancing vocations
Despite her busy schedule as a doctor and mother of two, Natalia describes writing as her favorite hobby. She takes advantage of any free moment to give free rein to her creativity and put her ideas on paper. She acknowledges that the writing process for ‘After the Salt’ was longer due to her personal and professional responsibilities, compared to her previous work.
Would you leave your medical profession for writing?
Without hesitation, Gisbert states that he would leave his medical career if writing continues to prosper. Even if his income was significantly less, he would devote himself completely to literature.
The plot of ‘After the Salt’
‘After Salt’ falls within the psychological thriller genre. The story begins on a rainy day in March 2022, when an impressive waterfall forms in El Salt de Alcoi. In the midst of the admiration of the spectators, one of them witnesses the fall of a person into the void. Although at first it seems like a suicide, a photograph reveals the presence of someone else, triggering an investigation full of mystery.
The book launch
‘After the Salt’ is expected to be published in October, offering readers a story full of intrigue and psychological depth. The book promises more than a simple outcome of a mystery, exploring the lives and motivations of its characters.
The penchant for thrillers
Natalia Gisbert confesses that she has always felt a strong attraction for mystery novels and thrillers. This genre allows her to write the stories that she herself would like to read, creating plots that capture and hold the reader’s attention.
Invitation to read
Gisbert encourages the public to delve into ‘After the Salt’, where in addition to solving the central mystery, readers will discover the complex and rich stories of each character. It is a work that offers a deep and fascinating literary experience.