Susan Foster, Author

(An image from the author's photo album, taken years ago by a bystander.) The purpose of including this photo here will be obvious in a few paragraphs. The privilege of writing and speaking freely. I spend considerable time writing, mostly on a novel I am trying to finish. Of late, however, I have agonized over whether I should share certain thoughts–on social media, within the pages of my novel's manuscript, and even with some of my friends. There is never a justification for hateful rhetoric or harmful statements, but everyone is entitled to an opinion. However, I'm usually hesitant to voice what I think and, the reason why frightens me. The United States election looms less than a week from now and tensions are high. People are passionate about their views and anxious about what will happen, as am I. This post is not intended to pick a fight, but to air something that has been bothering me. To write an excellent story, the author must raise the stakes. This election has