Writing my first book has been one of the most challenging yet profoundly rewarding experiences of my life. As an author, the process of breathing life into the pages of what will soon become my debut novel in the “What If” series has been both a journey of personal reflection and creative expression. This contemporary romance and women’s fiction title, enhanced with elements of erotica, weaves together themes of love, trust, and recovery—a narrative deeply rooted in my own past struggles with domestic violence, but that is not the story’s main topic.
The development of the female protagonist was particularly significant for me. Drawing from my personal experiences, I crafted her story to mirror the complex path of reclaiming the ability to love and trust after enduring such significant hardships. This process was not just about telling a story; it was about healing, understanding, and transforming pain into something empowering and hopeful.
However, the novel isn’t solely focused on struggle. It’s equally a celebration of love and the supportive relationships that help us heal. The male protagonist in my book is a testament to that, as he is a collage of the amazing, supportive men who have been pillars during my healing journey. His perspective offers a poignant and powerful counter-narrative to the female protagonist’s experience, enriching the story with depth and a multi-faceted view of relationship dynamics.
Telling this story through a dual narrative—some chapters are narrated by the female protagonist and others by the male protagonist—was a decision I made early on. It allows the reader to engage deeply with both characters, understanding their emotions, motivations, and growth from their unique viewpoints. This method not only enhances the richness of the narrative but also emphasizes that every story has more than one side, especially when it comes to matters of the heart.
The writing process itself was a tapestry of emotions. There were days when the words flowed effortlessly and others when they seemed locked behind doors of doubt and past pain, leading to anxiety and even crying. Yet, every word written, every scene crafted, felt like a step towards not just creating a compelling story, but also towards personal catharsis and reaffirmation of my resilience.
As my debut novel moves closer to its publication [stay tuned!], I find myself reflecting on this journey with a sense of pride and anticipation. I hope that when readers delve into the pages of my book, they find not only entertainment but also inspiration. The power of storytelling is not just in the tales we tell, but in the lives they touch, the truths they unveil, and the futures they inspire.
This book, though steeped in the realities of pain and the beauty of recovery, is ultimately a testament to the enduring power a woman can find through love and trust. It is my heartfelt wish that it resonates with readers, offering them both a mirror and a window—a mirror to reflect their own experiences and a window to see the possibilities of what can be when we choose to trust and love again.
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Trivia: The picture above matters because the female protagonist is a U.S. Army JAG. While working for the U.S. Army, I met some amazing women with very powerful stories, and I wanted to incorporate that into my book.
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Melissa Harkin 
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