We have an (almost) finished cover, what do you think?
When I sat down to start this book, I just wrote what I needed to. Normally I have an idea of where I’m headed when I set out on a book; invariably I know the ending before I start. But with Desert of the New I found myself at a bit of a loss. I had taken notes over the years, drafted outlines, and even settled on a structure I thought was exactly right, if a bit on the nose.
I started filling that outline. Where Sea of the Unknown chronicled a physical journey, the struggle of getting to Paris against all odds, this new book would not go anywhere. It would stay right here, in Paris. Facing the barren landscape of this new life in Paris, the unknown become real, the fact that getting here was not enough on its own to stay. But that’s ok; it turns out the emotional journey is where the good stuff really starts… read more.
While I can’t speak for everyone who moves abroad, I can say that many of us are running from something. I certainly was. And once I got settled in Paris, there was nowhere left to flee. I’ve been very public about my experiences with therapy and all the ways I’m trying to grow into the Good Man™ I’ve always hoped to become. But it’s only been in the last couple of years that I’ve really gained any perspective on the process. Only recently have I realized just how far I’ve come, and how lucky I am to have made it at all.
Desert of the New dives into what it’s like to live in Paris as a content creator, as an immigrant, and as someone who is simply trying to clean up their corner of the world while also realizing how much of themselves needs some cleaning. The first draft was what I needed to write, a gift to myself. Richard came back to edit (he’s edited my last two books, bless him), and we’ve crafted it into something I hope is a gift to you as well.
This is the way I’ve lived my life over the last decade, though it started with daily vlogging in 2016. The philosophy is simple: If I can only live and share my life in a way that encourages you, that leaves you with the hope that if I can make it, so can you, then it will have been a life worth living. I believe this book, for me, is a high point in that philosophy in more ways than one. I hope you feel that way too.
Don’t forget that the Pre-Launch Party is happening next week! If you were among the lucky few to get a ticket, I’m looking forward to seeing you there! We have a lot of fun little surprises in store for you. And for everyone who can’t make it, don’t forget there’s a link to watch the live stream in your order confirmation email.
Join us live at 19h00 CET on March 26, 2026. The real show with Paul and me will start about an hour in, so grab a drink and join in the fun from home.
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