Ksenia J. Merck on Modern Mystic Soul: Love Beyond Time, Art, and the Legacy of Ghost Flower

When Ksenia J. Merck joined Modern Mystic Soul hosted by Therese Tucker, the conversation unfolded into something far deeper than a typical book feature.

It became a powerful exploration of grief, creative awakening, spiritual connection, and the enduring legacy of Ghost Flower.

For readers discovering Ksenia’s work, this episode offers insight not only into the novel itself—but into the extraordinary journey that brought it into the world.

Listen to the episode here:

The Story Behind Ghost Flower: A Science Fiction Novel Rooted in Purpose

Ghost Flower began as the third book written by Ksenia’s late husband, Bill Merck.

Set in 2035, the novel follows a team attempting to cure a devastating pandemic. Their mission requires traveling back to 1585 to plant clues connected to a mysterious flower brought to Earth by extraterrestrial visitors thousands of years earlier.

The novel weaves together:

• Time travel and interdimensional themes

• Historical elements from the late 1500s

• Romance and adventure

• Philosophical depth

• A mission to preserve humanity

While Ghost Flower is a sweeping science fiction story, it also reflects Bill’s lifelong values—leadership, integrity, curiosity, and a deep interest in the cosmos.

From Grief to Creative Stewardship: How Ksenia Brought Ghost Flower to Life

After Bill’s passing, Ksenia stepped into the editorial process to fulfill his wish of publishing the novel.

What began as a responsibility soon became something far more profound.

As she read through the manuscript—sometimes in tears, sometimes smiling—she felt guided. Inspired. Energized.

She:

• Completed editorial refinements

• Painted the cover

• Created detailed interior sketches

• Wrote the epilogue

• Developed a companion journal to deepen the book’s philosophical themes

Through her independent publishing imprint, MerckiiPress, she brought both Ghost Flower and its companion journal into the world.

The creative process became not just publishing—but partnership.

Creativity, Intuition, and Spiritual Connection

During the episode, Therese Tucker shared insights into how artistic flow activates the intuitive right hemisphere of the brain—the space associated with creativity, subtle perception, and spiritual awareness.

For Ksenia, this resonated deeply.

Whenever she entered the artistic process, she felt a tangible sense of collaboration. Inspiration arrived with clarity. Symbolism revealed itself. Objects in her home became part of the visual narrative.

The work did not feel solitary.

It felt shared.

Ksenia described experiencing a continued connection with Bill—one that felt grounded, steady, and even stronger in some ways than when he was physically present.

The art became a bridge.

Navigating Grief Without a Deadline

A central theme of the conversation was grief—and the courage to move through it authentically.

In addition to losing her husband, Ksenia had recently lost her mother, whom she had cared for until the age of 102. Years of caregiving and stress had taken a toll.

Instead of imposing a timeline on healing, she chose to give herself permission:

• To move slowly

• To honor waves of emotion

• To recognize small breakthroughs

• To allow transformation organically

Rather than resisting change, she began co-creating with it.

She transformed a guest room into an art studio.

She recommitted to her health.

She returned to her love of flowers and holistic living.

Through creativity, she reclaimed parts of herself that had been set aside during years of caregiving.

The Companion Journal: Expanding the Legacy of Ghost Flower

In addition to illustrating the novel, Ksenia created a companion journal designed to guide readers deeper into the book’s philosophical and spiritual questions.

The journal invites reflection on:

• Leadership and integrity

• Personal growth

• Purpose and destiny

• Spiritual awareness

In many ways, the journal serves as Ksenia’s creative dialogue with Bill’s writing—an offering that complements his vision while extending its impact.

Together, the novel and journal represent a collaborative legacy.

Ksenia J. Merck’s Message for Those Experiencing Loss

When asked what advice she would offer someone navigating grief, Ksenia shared something simple yet powerful:

Find something that sparks you.

It does not need to be monumental.

It does not need to be immediate.

But that spark—when followed—can become purpose.

And purpose becomes forward movement.

A Living Legacy Through MerciiPress

Through MerciiPress, Ksenia continues to steward a growing body of work that reflects integrity, imagination, and service.

Her appearance on Modern Mystic Soul revealed not only the depth of Ghost Flower as a science fiction novel—but the deeper story of resilience, love, and spiritual continuity behind it.

Ghost Flower is more than a book.

It is a testament to creative devotion.

A reflection of enduring connection.

And a reminder that love does not end—it evolves.