https://aveteransfantasies.com/

https://twitter.com/a_fantasies

Hey everyone!

I am a long time fantasy fan and first time fantasy novelist who is currently completing a PhD.

As the title suggests, I am a veteran who served in the conflict in Afghanistan. I read a lot of fantasy out in Afghanistan and even more once I returned. However, something always struck me whilst reading. The realities of war and conflict are far, far different from what is described in most fiction. It is fiction after all and it is not lost on me that the whole concept of fantasy is for it not to be "real".

Despite this, I have decided to write my own novel based on my experiences and how war has shaped my thoughts and feelings today. Not only the negative aspects such as battling the severe psychological stress it places a person under, but the friendships and bonds made in this extreme environment.

I am sad to say that I have lost more military friends to mental health conditions than the war itself, and this will be one of the key themes of my novel. Another key theme is trying to help others understand the reason young men join the Military. I personally joined at 16. While I do not regret it, it is a young age, and decision that I still struggle to fully understand today. I try to rationalize this in my novel and hope it can help others understand the reason why some young men and women enlist.

I am really enjoyed the writing process and it has helped me to clear out a few of my own demons.

Chapters should be up weekly!

I hope you enjoy my content. Feedback and advice is always appreciated!

Thanks again!