Author of – Hiding for My Life
Karen Solt, an eighteen-year-old nonconformist with an alcohol problem, gets manipulated by a Navy recruiter into joining the military. She finds herself on a ship in the Deep South, struggling to adapt to a world very different from her small Northern Arizona hometown. During this time, she also discovers that she’s gay. However, being gay in the Navy in 1984 is considered a crime, and the Navy Criminal Investigative Service regularly pursues gay Sailors. This puts Karen in a difficult position, as she is committed to the uniform and to staying with her first girlfriend, who is also enlisted. To avoid being exposed and discharged, she hides her true identity, leading to serious consequences.
The story explores themes of desire, addiction, the damaging effects of secrets, the importance of community, and the high cost of marginalizing individuals. “Hiding for My Life” is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a powerful call for everyone to embrace their true selves.
Karen Solt is a retired US Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer who served as a gay sailor from 1984 to 2006, before and during the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” era. After concealing her sexuality for most of her life, Karen now advocates for people to come out from hiding and live authentically. She holds a master’s degree in psychology, works as an emotional health coach, and is passionate about helping others uncover and heal their own hidden struggles. For more information, please visit Karen’s website at www.hideology.com. Karen currently resides in her hometown of Prescott, Arizona, where she enjoys spending time with her dog, Kai, and keeping an eye on her spirited mother.