Post-war life comes with post-war truths.  In this excerpt from my historical fiction, women’s fiction novel, Adjustment Year, main character Hettie faces the consequences of marrying a man she barely knows.

This scene takes place at a pivotal moment for Hettie when she feels she is at wits’ end dealing with an unhappy marriage.  Both Hettie and her second husband Alfred are dealing with what today we call PTSD.  Throughout the novel, Hettie must face emotions she could not during the Great War while Alfred buries himself in work.  In addition, they come from different backgrounds, and this causes conflict.  Has either admitted to the other that they need help?  That their relationship needs fixed?  No.  This is 1919 after all.  You’re expected to keep a stiff upper lip and shoulder the burden in silence.

I hope this scene gives you a meaningful glimpse into Hettie and Alfred’s relationship.