Last week, I went through Round 1 Edits for A Fairy's Quest. All in all, I am super excited to share this book with my readers. Writing it took me on an emotional journey... To some extent, all my books do. But this one was personal because both my heroine and I have a health condition called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
I introduced Alina Lehrer in A Wizard's Choice where she had a traumatic experience. It provided me with an opportunity to delve into trauma. Mine. Hers. And, while writing, I realized she also had generational trauma. I didn't really go into that, but the series isn't over yet.
Like many mental health conditions, there is a lot misunderstood about PTSD. Though I am pleased to see it addressed more in fiction. Dialogue about mental health is so important. I really feel it's the health crisis of my generation. In Canada, mental illness is a leading cause of disability, resulting in approximately 30% of short- and long-term disability claims. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, one in five Canadians personally experience a mental health problem or illness each year. And all Canadians will be affected, at least indirectly, by mental health at some point in their lives.
My limited knowledge about trauma and mental health comes from personal experience and research. If you need more information, please consult a medical professional.
But, on a less serious note, what does this have to do with my resolutions? Oh, right! Last week, I mentioned that my first priority was A Fairy's Quest edits. I checked that item off my list on Sunday. Next up? Prepping Duet at Midnight for submission... I'm loving this momentum.
Have a great day! I sure am!
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