I sat down to write a brief outline of the thoughts bouncing in my head and the next thing I knew I couldn't stop. Six months later, Faithful Deceptions was finished. The rough draft anyway. I've actually been working on the edits and revisions for this manuscript off and on since 2007. After my first RWA conference in Dallas, I let it sit for awhile and finished the story I was working on to begin with. Then switched to writing a middle grade book and Young Adult for a change of pace. At least I thought that was why back then. Now I'm thinking it had alot more to do with how the story and the human trafficking affected something deep inside me. The research has always been a fun part of the writing for me. Not so much with this story. The things I read and learned were almost too much to bear. And I had two young daughters at the time. It really shook me up.
Maybe this subject is something I need to bring more out in the open. Human Trafficking is not a crime that only happens in foreign countries like so many of us think. I was one of those people. Then I found out how many cases actually take place right here in the United States. The Walmart in my home town is actually a stopping point for those coming in from Mexico on their way into the U.S. with these young girls. Horrified isn't even strong enough a word for how this makes me feel. I could sit back and thank the good Lord above that I have no real life experiences to draw on. But I feel like there's more I should do to bring this out in the open.
This horrifying reality will be woven through my next several books. And I think I'm the one most surprised by this sudden realization. Funny how a story can grasp hold and not let go. How it can dig so deep within you there's no escape, no alternative but to see it through. Heavy sigh. Another reason I love to write? The possibilities, shocking truths and breathtaking journeys one's imagination can take you through.
