Ashes of the Past

What's Next

**One Final A/N**

It is with a mixture of sadness and pride that I announce the end of "Ashes of the Past." This novel has been a journey not just for our characters, but for me as an author and for you, my dedicated readers. As we close this chapter, "Ashes of the Past" is now fully transitioning into the Editing phase. From there, we'll see where the winds of creativity and opportunity take us.

About the possibility of a Sequel. I'm pleased to say that it's a possibility. There are plot and character development threads still lingering in the background, however, I want to be clear that if a sequel does materialize, it would likely take the form of a novella rather than a full-length novel. The same goes for any potential Prequel ideas that have been floating around in my mind. I've toyed with the idea of exploring Adieya's parents or other extended family members, delving deeper into their histories and the events that shaped our protagonist's world. There's even potential for a story revolving around the enigmatic and long-dead Eleanor Boleyn, whose presence echoes through the pages of "Ashes of the Past."

I'm well aware that this story ventured into some pretty dark territory. If you've read it all the way through, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation for your perseverance and commitment. It wasn't an easy journey, but I believe it was a necessary one. The main theme, if you haven't already discerned it, revolves around surviving dark times and abuse. This wasn't chosen lightly or for shock value.

I began writing this novel during a particularly challenging period in my own life. I was just starting the healing process from personal experiences with abuse, and the act of writing became my lifeline. Crafting Adieya's character and journey became a way for me to cope with emotions and thoughts that I struggled to process in my daily life. It was a cathartic experience, allowing me to explore the depths of human resilience and the path toward healing through the safe distance of fiction.

I want to emphasize that this story was never intended to romanticize abuse. If that's the impression you've come away with, I urge you to reconsider the narrative. The goal was to shine a light on the reality of abusive situations, the complexity of emotions involved, and the difficult but possible journey toward recovery. It's about acknowledging the darkness while never losing sight of the potential for light.

To those who have continued to read and support this story, I cannot express my gratitude enough. Seeing the readership grow week after week has been both humbling and encouraging. Your engagement, comments, and messages have often been the motivation I needed to keep pushing forward, even when the subject matter became difficult to navigate.

While "Ashes of the Past" may be concluding, this is far from the end of my writing journey. For those who have connected with my storytelling style, I'm excited to share that I'm already diving into a new project. While I'm not ready to reveal too much about it just yet, I can offer you its working title: "Dangerous Attractions." I hope this piques your curiosity and that you'll join me on this new adventure when the time comes.

I also want to take a moment to reflect on the power of storytelling. Fiction allows us to explore difficult truths, walk in the shoes of others, and imagine possibilities beyond our current reality. It can be a mirror, reflecting our own experiences, or a window into lives and worlds we might never otherwise encounter. Through Adieya's story, I hope I've been able to offer both – a reflection for those who have faced similar struggles, and a window for those seeking to understand.

As we close this chapter, I look forward to the editing process and the potential for "Ashes of the Past" to reach even more readers in its polished form. As we look to the future, I'm excited about the stories yet to be told, the characters yet to be met, and the journeys yet to be taken.

To every reader who has laughed, cried, raged, and hoped alongside Adieya, thank you. Your willingness to engage with this story, to grapple with its themes, and to see it through to the end means more than I can adequately express. You've been an integral part of this journey, and I'm grateful for your company along the way.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for following this journey with me. Here's to many more stories, many more adventures, and the enduring power of the written word to heal, inspire, and transform.

                                                                                                            With all my love and gratitude,

Persephone