The time is right for Lilith Fields to seek revenge. Twenty-five years have passed since the sadistic abuser tortured the patients of the psychiatric ward, and now Lily has decided he must meet his final judgment. As her plan unfolds she discovers she is not the only one with a dark secret. Now, only time will tell if Lily’s demons will be vanquished, and just how many people are really involved.
What are the main themes of your book?
‘Attic of the Mind’ is a dark tale of revenge, forgiveness and redemption.
Who or what inspired your story?
As a student nurse I worked on a psychiatric ward in a fairly remote hospital in the late 1980’s. I used my memories to recreate the hospital and ward. The beginning of the novel just entered my imagination out of the blue, and the characters seemed to tell me their story.
What do you like best about your characters?
Lilith Fields is a strong woman with fragile peripheries. Despite her past abuse, she is still caring towards others. Doctor Nathan Rine is self-aware of his failings which have tormented him over the years. I like the fact that he recognises his weaknesses. He is actually a charming man beneath his sometimes arrogant attitude.
What are their worse peculiarities?
Lilith self-harms and suffers with anorexia. She turns her emotional pain inwards and damages herself further, sometimes to the extent of becoming a victim once more. Nathan is a Lothario who doesn’t respect women, and who drinks too much at times to dull his emotional pain.
How does your character evolve?
Lilith gradually gets stronger, even though circumstances keep tripping her up. She gradually experiences the emotion of forgiveness towards another character, which is freeing for her. Nathan recognises he deserves to be punished and tries to reconcile himself with his actions in the past.
What’s the principal message you want to send to your audience?
That forgiveness can heal some wounds, but perpetrators of abuse need to be punished.
What’s the nicest thing anyone has said about your book?
The review by Mariam Kobras on Goodreads and German Amazon.
Where can we purchase it?
Currently on Amazon (UK) and (US), and Barnes & Noble in ebook and paperback.
About Hemmie Martin
Hemmie Martin spent most of her professional life as a Community Nurse for people with learning disabilities, a Family Planning Nurse, and a Forensic Nurse working with young offenders. She spent six years living in the south of France, and currently lives in Essex with her husband, two teenage daughters, one house rabbit, and two guinea pigs.
Follow Hemmie on her website, Facebook, Twitter and Winter Goose Publishing.
