Mantis Presents

Bleeds When Broken by Joy M. Lilley is a poignant and emotionally honest contemporary novel that explores trauma, mental health struggles, and the long road toward healing and self-acceptance. The story centers on Fiona, a young nurse still carrying the scars of a difficult childhood. Her internal battles affect her relationships and sense of self, but a cruise offers a temporary escape where she meets Charles and experiences moments of connection. After returning home, her challenges intensify, leading her to seek distance in the South of France, where she finds work, kindness, and a measure of peace. Guilt eventually draws her back, bringing further trials that test her resilience. Lilley writes with raw empathy and authenticity, portraying Fiona’s journey as one of courage and gradual recovery. Readers appreciate the novel’s emotional depth, its compassionate look at the impact of past wounds, and its underlying message of hope—that even deeply broken things can find a path toward mending through understanding, time, and support. Buy links - Amazon (Kindle ebook): amazon.com/Bleeds-When-Broke… - Amazon (paperback): amazon.com/Bleeds-When-Broke… Also available on Kindle Unlimited and through other major retailers (search the title + author for additional formats and regional options). About the author Joy M. Lilley (pen name of Joy Gerken) is a British author and retired registered nurse who devoted herself to writing after a long nursing career. She is a grandmother who enjoys family life, the theatre, and the arts. Her works include historical romance (*Figs, Vines and Roses*), other novels, short stories, and contemporary dramas that often explore human resilience and emotional complexity. She blogs and remains active in writing communities. X handle: @JoygerkenJoy @joygerken (nitter.gq/joygerken) #Authors #Artists #Creators