L D Fowler

I have always loved to read a good book. There is nothing better than getting lost in a story line whilst sitting comfortably on the sofa, or soaking up the vitamin d on a sun lounger. Having the time to read had always been my issue. With work and family taking up most of my time, I only really got to read on holiday or whilst travelling to work events.

Two and a half years ago I became very unwell. I went from a busy professional, to a fatigued shell of my former self. From the moment I was forced to stop work, to date, I am still undergoing tests to find out exactly what is wrong with me. I have had a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a condition that affects each individual differently. There isn't an easy fix to this condition, it is a case of trying different things to see what works. I have some pretty brutal side affects such as dizziness and crippling headaches. My mental health suffered severely as I tried to come to terms with being bed bound. I was watching everyone else's life go on around me whilst I lay down, helplessly.

When dealing with chronic, and difficult to diagnose illnesses, it feels like time stands still. It's groundhog day over and over. Meanwhile my friends have got married, and had children, whilst going about their 'normal' lives.

I decided at the beginning of 2024 to channel my limited energy in to something productive. Between the notes app on my phone, and typing whilst laying on a laptop, I wrote my first book. I had no plan, I just wrote and let the metaphorical 'pen' guide me. After a lot of revision and feedback from close friends, I made 'Undeniable' available to download on Kindle.

I have since penned the outline of two more, following the story of my main characters. The series is lighthearted and easy to read. I drew on some of my own experiences, as well as stories I have been told over the years by friends. Refining a narrative and developing characters, has very much helped my mental health. I felt productive for the first time in years. I felt a sense of achievement, and even excitement again.

Hopefully, I will get to a point whereby I am diagnosed and rehabilitated, in the meantime I am enjoying writing and refining my skills as an author.