Basing characters on people you know....

[onetiredfromthesugarhighmummy]

I have a main character who has left an alcoholic husband & is starting a new life, this is based a little upon my split & divorce with my exH.

Obviously names & stuff will be changed but is this a bit obvious its based on exfucker? I'm not trying to be malicious about him or even make him the character as asuch, but I know the emotions that my character will have & I can predict what she will do. I'm writing what I have lived, basically.

Anyone who knows me will know the circumstances of my divorce & I'm worried I'm basing the character on someone real & it may land me in trouble. The ex isn't a character himself as she has already left, but he does appear as a bit of a wanker through her memories & the way she remembers him.

Could it be a problem? Do I need to find another reason for the divorce?

Gah - you probably need more expert advice than I can give - but I'd be quite careful. Especially if your ex is the vindictive type. Should you get to the publishing stage and he finds out, he could tie you up in some legal situation in an attempt to prevent publication. No idea if he would win, but best avoided. I'd make the situation itself quite different but you can still use your experience for the emotional response of the characters.

Thanks TMNT, yeah he's vindictive & you're right

I don't think it's a problem. If I were you I'd just go with the flow, write what you want to write. That way, at least you'll get it done. Also, it could go in any direction and may not be as recognisable by the time you've finished. Go for it!

I personally think so long as he isn't named, or any revealing qualities then you'll be fine.