From my journal

Originally written on 7/2/16
Now that the manuscript is technically complete, I realized I could not have written this by a younger self. I lacked experience. I lacked courage and creative experimentation I am more comfortable to confront.

I am now only willing to confront issues and tackle subject matter that may have been taboo or off-limits to me back then. Now I use those same topics not only in the historical novel but in my other writings.