Stories Of Struggle, Empathy And Resilience Across Borders
Julieta Moss draws from her global experiences to craft emotionally rich novels that explore migration, identity, and love amidst social injustice and cultural diversity.
Julieta Moss is a writer whose life reads like a novel—layered, rich, and unapologetically international. A native of Argentina, she’s lived in Spain and now calls the UK home, blending a tapestry of cultural identities into every story she writes. With ancestors spanning six nationalities and three religions, her work is infused with the empathy and nuance that only come from living as a true citizen of the world. In this interview for Reader’s House Magazine, Julieta opens up about the inspirations behind her poignant Illyrian Boy series, including her personal experiences as an immigrant and her deep commitment to highlighting marginalised voices. Through her compelling characters and emotionally resonant storytelling, she challenges stereotypes, explores identity, and invites readers to embrace the beautifully complex world we live in.
A fresh, fearless voice delivering unforgettable stories with emotional depth and profound humanity.
What personal experiences inspired you to write ‘To Be Fair’ and the Illyrian Boy series?
I left Argentina for Spain at 19, and for the first 4 years I struggled to find a job that would sponsor me for a visa. So I stayed illegally, sharing accommodation, working with other migrants and refugees, some of which were fleeing conflict or discrimination, with the homophobic backdrop of the 90’s. That is how I became interested in capturing the unjust situations I witnessed and the real people affected by them.
How do your multicultural background and experiences in Argentina, Spain, and the UK influence your storytelling?
My USP is showing readers how enriching life can be if we broaden our horizons. Spending time with people who have a different background is not only eye opening but also can make you realise how similar we are sometimes, and how we all have the same problems. Apart from getting wonderful travel and cooking tips.
Could you elaborate on the significance of the prequel ‘Wishful Thinking’ in providing context for the main series?
I wanted to give readers a feel for my writing style, which has been described as simple but intensely emotional. Also, James is a rather controversial character with his internal demons, questionable choices, and volatility, which may frustrate readers seeking uncomplicated, linear love stories. But mostly, to show how Bogdan met James, and how small acts of kindness from strangers can improve somebody’s life.
What challenges did you face while writing about the struggles of immigrants and refugees, and how did you overcome them?
I started the first novel in 2019, when most refugees on the media were from Africa or the Middle East. So I wanted Bogdan to be ethnically Caucasian to break the stigma that refugees look or dress different to us Westerners. Although, unfortunately, with the war in Ukraine, this has now changed. It also had to be set before same gender marriage became possible. Otherwise, it would have radically altered the story. And finally, I barely knew anything about the Balkans war and the different religions and ethnicities in the old Yugoslavia. But I love history, so I enjoyed educating myself as well.
How do you balance your professional career as a translator with your passion for writing novels?
I’ve always loved writing since childhood. But as a translator, you are there to convey somebody else’s ideas as closely as possible to the original, however bad they may be. That is why being able to write freely is the perfect antidote. Having no dependants of my own to look after, and a rather aloof cat and husband also helps, of course.
What research methods did you employ to authentically portray the diverse characters and settings in your books?
I have personally visited all the locations I describe in my books while on holiday. And I first became interested in the Balkans conflict at an art gallery inside one of the destroyed homes in central Dubrovnik. But when I began reading about the different battles on the internet, watching films, reading books, and seeing videos of the time, that was when I became truly immersed in the story.
Can you share insights into the development of your characters, particularly James and Bogdan, and their evolution throughout the series?
They start as mere acquaintances, united by the mutual desire to help each other. Then they become extremely codependent, but by the end of Book One they have learnt to rely on each other and work as a team. However, the situations in Book Two completely change their dynamics and although they realise they could do better alone, they still choose to remain together, which is not only remarkable, but how all romantic relationships should be, in my opinion.
What advice would you offer to aspiring authors aiming to write stories that highlight social issues and promote cultural understanding?
It’s what the world needs right now. We should be evolving to a civilisation without borders or nationalities. Not building walls and creating hostility for those who risk their lives for a better future. Of course, there are criminals among them too, but most of us migrants are not criminals, like some politicians try to make voters believe. And for that we need to normalise the narrative that refugees are people too, and that they need our help. They are not the enemy. Large corporations that don’t pay tax and bribe our governments are the real enemy. And If billionaires, influencers, and retired people can move abroad to warmer countries and benefit from tax havens, why can’t refugees fleeing conflict and economic migrants also chose where they want to live?
