Author Carolina Pereyra Rosales Explores Mental Health in New Novel 'Brote de amor'

Contemporary Spanish literature is increasingly using fiction to destigmatize mental health, moving beyond clinical definitions to explore the true human experience. As reported by Diario de Avisos, Tenerife-born author Carolina Pereyra Rosales has taken a significant step in her career with her new novel, Brote de amor (Outbreak of Love). This work builds on her 2023 autobiographical book, transitioning her focus on mental health into the world of fiction.

The project, supported by editor Bárbara Remedios, was launched on October 9 at the Century 21 Impulsa headquarters in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, timed to coincide with World Mental Health Day. By choosing this community-focused venue, the author aimed to bring her message directly to the public.

Unlike her previous memoir, this novel features a broader cast of characters. The story follows Rebeca, a young woman building a life in Madrid, as she begins a relationship with a man named Mario. The book intentionally avoids traditional romance tropes where the male lead acts as a savior, instead focusing on a partnership based on equality and interdependence. When a hidden secret threatens their stability, Rebeca is forced to return to the Canary Islands. The story takes an ironic turn when Mario faces a mental health crisis, and Rebeca must become his emotional support—a shift that challenges the reader to think about resilience and reciprocity.

The strength of the novel lies in how it questions whether a diagnosis should define a person. By placing mental health at the heart of a story about overcoming adversity, Pereyra Rosales aims to do more than just entertain; she wants to spark a necessary conversation about rebuilding one’s life after a diagnosis. Ultimately, the book serves as a powerful call for visibility, highlighting hope and honesty as essential tools for navigating mental health in today’s society.