Bruised, Resilient

"Bruised, Resilient" is an eclectic collection of thirty short stories spanning multiple genres from magical realism, mythology, and science fiction to contemporary and literary fiction. Whether speculative tales told through metaphor or mainstream realism, this is a book that showcases the collective experiences of real women navigating the world. There are narratives within that speak to relationships, motherhood, the stigma of not wanting to be a mother, loss, societal expectations, fat shaming, wedding culture, aging, and more. It is impossible to authentically explore women's experiences without talking about abuse, the unrealistic social expectations, bullying, conditioning, and double standards. However, there is resilience and empowerment here as well. Perhaps there cannot be one without the other.