exiled (An Unlucky 13 novel)

TRIGGERS: Addiction/relapse (alcoholism), mental illness, mentions of abuse/neglect by family as well as boarding schools (physical, psychological), references to trauma on account of behavioral modification programs (i.e. product of a troubled teen industry; including mentions of conversion therapy practices), ableism on account of neurodivergence (i.e. Autism/ADHD - externalized mostly, but some internalized), child endangerment, suicide (attempt/ideation), mentions of self-harm 

This book is intended for readers 18 years and older. 

Please note that while all these issues are handled as delicately as possible, don’t anticipate anything to be watered down. And remember — not everyone deals with trauma, mental illness, and addiction the same way, nor is everyone's experience with Autism/ADHD the same.

It should also be noted, that the dynamic between these two characters does err on the side of taboo, though it is mutually consensual, with the one MC being 32, and the other newly 18. There is no grooming - the characters meet after the character turns 18. This work is purely fiction, and not intended to romanticize what would be subject to far more scrutiny in a real-world situation.

This list of triggers can also be found at the back of the book, after the Acknowledgements. I ask that you not spoil them for readers who wish to go in blind. Please take care of yourself first and foremost.

RESOURCES & HOTLINES

Neurodiversity Celebration Week (Research, Tips, Screenings, Accommodations, etc.):

https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/resource-hub

(Here's a good place to start if you're unfamiliar with types of neurodivergence, including Autism and ADHD among others. There's been a lot of change in recent years in how doctors/researchers approach/"treat" individuals who fall outside of neurotypical development/functioning. Like with any spectrum classification system, presentation varies, and education is key to prevent slipping into outdated viewpoints, stereotypes, stigmas, etc.)

Child Welfare Information Gateway: https://www.childwelfare.gov/organizations/?CWIGFunctionsaction=rols:main.dspList&rolType=Custom&RS_ID=5

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:  https://988lifeline.org/ - or you can call or text 988

 SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration): https://www.samhsa.gov/ or call the hotline 1-800-662-4357