yeolde-lachristensen

I'm just getting started here, so forgive my bumbling as I figure out where everything's located and how each contraption works.  (Knee, meet endtable, etc.)

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So, there's really one thing you need to know about me, and that is that I'm currently disabled by the same chronic illness that (spoiler!) this novella's lovely protagonist has to deal with by the end of the story.  But there's more to me than my disability, of course.  I'm a writer and I'm a literary translator.  I'm a caretaker, and I have more hobbies and interests than I can juggle.  China, its language and its history have particularly called to me.  My biggest, thickest books all deal with the subject, and you'll find the beginnings of the Qing dynasty all reflected in this novella.

Speaking of the novella, it's the reason why I'm here.  I've discovered it may be just a -little- too niche.  At 44k, it's an awkward length.  It's inspired by historical events and people from the Manchu take-over of China, but it's not classified as alternate history or true historical fantasy.  It includes romantic relationships, but it's not a romance.  It includes political maneuvering and action scenes, but it's not an adventurous romp.  Not to mention, it deals with chronic illness.

I started QUEEN in July 2011, one full year after I first got sick, and I worked on it off and on up until April 2014.  After three major drafts, it's the best I could make it.  I'm already a much better writer and would do a lot differently if I could start over from the beginning now, but it's time to focus on other projects. 

Still, writing this novella was worth it to me.  Wattpad gives me a chance to share it with you.  

I hope you find Ilha's story compelling.  I'll be uploading new scenes throughout the rest of the year.

Enjoy.

http://lachristensen.wordpress.com/