Brilliant Bristol

Researching for a story is fascinating. Traveling to England to research my next Regency Historical novel was brilliant beyond belief! In my newest WIP, a British peer with an unfortunate stammering problem is brought to realize that his disability provides a small window of insight into what it must mean for all those who Society shuns. He decides he must use his wealth and position to help right injustices as he finds them.

My recent trip to Bristol, England and the insights into the wealth based on the slave trade gave me the angle I needed for my Hero's call to action. Although the slave trade was abolished in England in 1803, slavery itself continued for 30 more years. It was illegal to purchase new slaves but those already enslaved were not freed until 1833. The injustice perpetuated against the powerless spurs my main character to act. But he, like many of us when faced with complex issues, has a difficult time formulating the best way to make things better. He must be willing to risk his own money and social standing to do what is right. Fighting against greed and power to protect the innocent and prevent exploitation is nothing new. It is the calling of every Christian and, indeed, every moral person to "Do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God." (Micah 6:8) My main characters must choose how much they will risk for justice.

All over the city of Bristol public spaces have been set aside to consider the consequences of slavery to the enslaved as well as the moral decay it induced in owners. In many cathedrals, museums and monuments the brave abolitionists, inspiring freedmen, and stunning accomplishments and sacrifices of those who stood up to an evil institution are celebrated and remembered. Thoughtful people everywhere need to know and understand the long term effects of our actions and laws and do whatever they can to make them just and honorable for all.