The Trauma Informed Writer – Crafting Authentic Trauma in Genre Fiction

Drawing on cutting-edge research into genre fiction and trauma theory, The Trauma-Informed Writer is an essential resource for all fiction writers wanting to explore and include trauma themes. Inside, you’ll discover how to manage and limit ‘trauma triggers’ in your readers, while combining trauma elements to create unique subgenres. You will learn how to develop the trauma arc in your writing and understand what trauma is and what it is not. You will also become familiar with the nine major trauma responses, recognise the range of post-trauma effects, and truly gain insight into the impact of trauma on relationships, whether romantic or non-romantic.

A leading expert in literary and post-trauma research, Dr Alicia Leigh reveals both orthodox and unorthodox trauma recovery techniques and shows how to apply this information to characters and plot. In a world where trauma awareness is more critical than ever, this book provides timely guidance for writers at all stages of their careers by outlining a step-by-step approach to crafting trauma in an authentic, accurate, and sensitive way. Whether completing a first novel or refining the final draft, The Trauma-Informed Writer is an invaluable resource for crafting stories that resonate and heal.