Angela Martin, Isle of Wight County’s newest author, has self-published her debut historical fiction novel.

“These Gifts HE Gave,” set in the wake of World War I and the fading terror of the Spanish flu, follows Mae Johnson, a survivor of domestic abuse who finds herself widowed and facing a future with three children and no job. Her husband, George, presumed dead after the war, is far from gone in Mae’s mind. Despite the disbelief of those around her, Mae stands resolute in her conviction that George is alive and intent on wreaking havoc.

Martin, herself a survivor of domestic violence, said she hopes to provide readers with insight into the inner thoughts and fears of a victim who has experienced abuse, coercive control and gaslighting and societal victim-blaming.

““For all those who have hidden away their inner self to protect themselves from the cruelest of abuse, power, and control: may you remember you are not alone, as God is with you and will show you the way to the light, if you only ask,” an excerpt from the book states.

“I am looking for ways to help other domestic violence victims and survivors, with my move and also with my website,” Martin said.

Her website, Angela-martin.com, includes links to the national domestic violence hotline and books by other authors on domestic violence and trauma support.

Martin, a resident of the county for 24 years, said she fell in love with books at an early age and soon discovered a passion for historical fiction. By day, she’s an architectural design professional. Outside of work, she spends time with her family, two miniature dachshunds and sings with her church choir.

“These Gifts HE Gave” is available for purchase on Amazon.com.