This is a dreadfully dark and intense story, much more so than even my other tales. There are scenes of violence against a woman, allusions to domestic abuse, inappropriate responses from the male character, and several things related to miscarriage and the loss of a child.

This story has the potential to be very disturbing. The heading clearly says "graphic violence and disturbing imagery." I do realize, however, that sometimes that is not enough. It's very easy to fall into a habit of skimming the disclaimer and jumping right into the story, which is what one of my beta readers did.

And then, this story really upset her. In fact, the term "disturbing" was used in initial comments on the first draft from four of my five readers. Two of them elected not to continue and passed on doing beta on this one.

Several of my readers suggested this additional disclaimer and also, that one particularly "disturbing" scene be clearly marked so that readers could opt to skip it if they so desired. I have done both. I have taken every step I can to make it clear to you, gentle readers, that this story has the potential to be extremely distressing to some folks. I've done all I can to be up front and open about the content, despite the fact that I dislike revealing the course of the story before you even read it.

So, if you choose to read Mara: Bitter Sweet, Bitter Sorrow: YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.

In other words, if you don't like it, or it upsets you, or you find it disturbing and have nightmares, PLEASE, do not feel you need to share this with me. I have no desire to receive such feedback, and your reactions, if negative, after the warnings and disclaimers I have posted, are your own responsibility.

This story is extremely close to my heart, touching on several themes that I have grappled with. If you choose to read it, and find its tale intense, but are able to appreciate that intensity, and can appreciate a story of struggle and adversity and the difficulty people can have in getting beyond the baggage they bring into a relationship, and surviving together against great odds, then I would be most humbly grateful to hear from you.

Sincerely,

Daydreamer