At long last

The finish line is in sight for this writer.

I set out on a journey to craft an emotional novel in September of 2022 after a year of dreaming and planning. It took just shy of a year to draft my first edition.

At that point, I thought, "Whew, that was tough. But at least I'm done."

If only I knew then what I know now. Writing that first copy was the easy part. Then came the months of re-reading, making edits, and submitting it for a developmental edit. I was beyond terrified to put my work, my baby, in someone else's hands for review.

I was fortunate enough to meet an incredible editor through Reedsy, New York Times Bestselling Author, Caroline Leavitt.

I was a bit star-struck when we met via Zoom to chat about my work, but she was wonderful, thoughtful, and extremely helpful.

That began a new round of rewrites, or as I like to call it, a complete overhaul. I flipped my manuscript on its head, shuffled pieces around, and put it back together like a jigsaw puzzle.

When I felt like I was ready to brave the world again, I pulled together a beta reader group. It consisted of a few friends, family, and a couple of total strangers. And let me tell you, I got the best feedback.

Then it was time for my third, or was it my fourth round of edits? Eventually, I had a finished product worthy of being read. But the constant question followed me: What now?

I could query an agent, but that would be a long shot. I could go directly to a publishing house, but that would be expensive. I could self-publish, but that doesn't always look the most professional.

I am not a lucky person, nor am I a rich person. So I chose to strike out on my own. I know a fair bit about design and layout, and what I didn't know I would learn. And so I decided to venture into self-publishing with Amazon.

My days were spent researching how to get an ISBN, how to create interior layouts, and how in the world to market myself.

I'm pleased to say that as of today, I have both my interior print and Kindle layouts finalized. I am so, so close to the finish line, and I got here all by myself. That is what I'm most excited about. While I have utilized incredible tools and had endless moral support, this is something I've accomplished by myself.

From the story itself to the image on the cover, everything is mine. And soon you can experience it for yourself.

I am currently eyeing a May 2026 release date, so be sure to keep an eye on this page for updates.

I can't wait to share this story and complete a lifelong dream.