In the novel, the author said that she was a stepmother because she wanted to emphasize the disadvantages of her character's gender, age, experience, etc. or to create a dramatic atmosphere. In some novels, the author might describe herself as a stepmother to create a dramatic scene, such as setting up a firewall between the characters to prevent them from knowing and trusting each other. This made the story more intense and interesting. There were also some authors who would portray themselves as stepmothers to show the growth and changes of the characters. For example, a character who had experienced some setbacks and difficulties began to realize his limitations and shortcomings and tried to change his life through learning and growth. This approach could provide depth and complexity to the plot of the novel, allowing the reader to pay more attention to the growth and change of the characters. There were many reasons why the author said she was a stepmother in the novel, depending on the plot and character setting of the novel.