Creating Princess Bashalis

Princess Bashalis has been an interesting character to create and develop. Sensitive to beauty, especially music, with a sharp mind and empathetic nature, she gradually begins to emerge from her cocoon and spread her wings. Each book sees her becoming bolder and more adventurous.

She also has oculocutaneous albinism. Along with a lack of pigmentation, this condition can also cause visual impairment. Albinism is often misunderstood and misrepresented. Those with the diagnosis are often ostracized, and in some countries persecuted or hunted, because of their physical differences.

Since she was born into a royal family, Bashalis was somewhat sheltered in that regard, but as she ventures forth in the world, she encounters other viewpoints. Because of her controlling brother and her family’s murderous past, she has developed a thick skin and an even temperament. She is adept at hiding her feelings and not showing pain or panic. Persevering through numerous trials, she overcomes every obstacle in her path and finally finds a place to belong.

When deciding on a name for her character, I wanted something that would reflect her uniqueness. A bashali is a sacred communal house used by the Kalasha women of Pakistan. They seclude themselves there during their menstrual cycle and to give birth. It is a safe space where men are not allowed. Therefore, the meaning of Princess Bashalis’ name is best rendered as “her body is sacred.” I hope that all women, no matter what their physical appearance, will see themselves as beautiful, unique, and sacred. Read more about Bashalis in The Princess of Everywhere, now available for preorder.