Stories change how we see the world—and ourselves

I’m Kristine Madera, a novelist and writer working at the intersection of cross-cultural experience, identity, and consciousness.

My work explores what happens when we leave familiar systems behind and allow ourselves to be shaped—sometimes uncomfortably—by other ways of living, believing, and belonging.

This website is a home for stories, guides, and resources that support intentional travel, international exchange, and study abroad as pathways to deeper humanity and global citizenship.

It’s undergoing a renovation, but there’s stil plenty to see while were in construction mode, so click around and explore.

If you want a fun place to start, check out my novel, God in Drag, born while volunteering at Mother Teresa’s Home for the Dying in Calcutta. Read the first Chapter of God in Drag HERE 

Praise for God in Drag

“…a wondrously evocative novel, rich in mysticism and psychological drama. Vivid, well-written, and featuring a clever, twisting story driven by intriguing characters who capture the reader’s attention, God in Drag is a mesmerizingly good read.” —The Book Review Directory

“Well written and completely absorbing, this is the perfect book for lovers of true literary fiction. Very highly recommended.” —Reader’s Favorite Book Reviews ★★★★★

“A travel novel that positively shines with humanity… poignant and sharply original… a believably flawed protagonist readers will genuinely root for… a heady masterwork of literary fiction.” —Self-Publishing Review, ★★★★★

“This is a story of stark truths and the ways people console themselves through moments of ambiguity. Madera does a wonderful job as she offers a nuanced and immersive portrayal of Indian culture and lived realities.“ —Literary Book Reviews