Bel Vidal is the pen name of an Australian-Bolivian writer and mental health advocate.
Her award-winning novel, Exuberance (2023), tells the story of Angie, a 30-year-old living with the highs and lows of bipolar type 2. Through its portrayal of Angie and those around her, it offers a nuanced view of mental illness and the hope found in self-understanding, treatment and support.
“A poignant story about living with a mental health condition, offering insight and hope.”
Anne Buist, co-author of bestselling novel The Glass House & Chair of Women’s Health, University of Melbourne
Bel's collection of fiction and non-fiction, Tales of Suburban Castaways, was published worldwide in 2024.
Her award-winning novel, Exuberance (2023), tells the story of Angie, a 30-year-old living with the highs and lows of bipolar type 2. Through its portrayal of Angie and those around her, it offers a nuanced view of mental illness and the hope found in self-understanding, treatment and support.
“A poignant story about living with a mental health condition, offering insight and hope.”
Anne Buist, co-author of bestselling novel The Glass House & Chair of Women’s Health, University of Melbourne
Bel's collection of fiction and non-fiction, Tales of Suburban Castaways, was published worldwide in 2024.
Exuberance is a poignant story about living with a mental health condition, offering insight and hope.
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Tales of Suburban Castaways weaves stories spanning from dreams to real life, through a variety of genres and styles.
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Bel has been writing and publishing work for over 25 years. Click on image to find out what makes her tick.
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Click on image to read Bel's blog, "Midnight Musings" on books, writing, inspiration, travel and creativity.
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What readers are saying about Exuberance
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'A wonderful journey of the power of the human mind' Full of real heart and feeling for the trauma of mental illness and how it touches a whole family. There is humour and warmth as well as the realistic darkness of the journey for Angie as a wife, daughter and friend. |
'Heartfelt and eye-opening' A beautifully written and heartfelt story of a young woman navigating the extremes of a confronting mental illness, until she can no longer do it alone. It captures the essence of a disorder often kept behind the scenes and breaks down some of the stigmas. |
'Uplifting and enthralling' From the first page to the last I loved Exuberance. In a narrative told with energy and sensitivity, the author takes you on a journey of twists and unexpected turns and leaves you feeling nothing but admiration for Angelica's determination. |