The Start of Something Special





If you're here, you're probably aware that I recently released my second novel, The Love We Had. Unlike my first book, this was an indie project - and baybee, what a journey it was! Self-publishing is definitely not for the faint of heart, especially not for a procrastinating, semi-perfectionist with a tendency to overthink. I've beaten myself up over this release more times than I'll acknowledge (you always catch things after the fact, right?). However, just that I dared to set out on this journey amid a pandemic AND during one of the most difficult times in my life makes me feel like I can move mountains. Maybe not real mountains, but those little playground rock climbing thingies - I got you!

So many times I've questioned what I'm supposed to be doing with my life. For a long while, I felt left behind. If not left behind, then simply behind. It seems I turned into an adult overnight. One day I was carefree with unlimited potential and the next I had responsibilities and expectations that were way above my pay grade.  While others were immersed in their dreams, I was headed to jobs I didn't want to be at. As my peers and colleagues did their best to climb the career ladder, I just couldn't muster up a damn to give. If careers were ladders, I was sitting on the bottom rung - pen in hand, stealing moments to write. I even finessed my way into a few writing positions. But corporate writing ain't no fun - at least not for me. 

I love being creative, so I need the freedom to write what I want. It's only so much you can do with a newsletter. Only so many ways you can describe a thing for an ad. Plus, I've been in love with love since love was born. I wanted to write romance. So that's exactly what I did!

I've always written stories. My first one is still scribbled underneath my grandmother's marble table in crayon. It never dawned on me that I could actually do this with my life. It wasn't until recently that I decided to share my work with the world. Believe me when I say it, that's a huge accomplishment. Sharing opens you up to other people's opinions/critiques whether you ask for them or not. I was raised not to seek validation from anybody, so I'm extremely secure in myself. However, I'd be lying if I said I didn't want people to at least like my work. Remind me to tell you about my first bad review, LOL! Because I've been so private, it's been suggested (time and time again) that I create a platform to engage with my readers - so here we are.

Here, I'll be cataloging my journey from obscurity to a best-selling romance novelist. You like the way I just spoke that into existence, don't you? I've actually been very blessed thus far; I've received such an amazing response from my writing that sometimes I almost feel legit. I'm truly grateful to everyone who has gotten behind me. The support has been astounding! Even if I never make it to any "best-sellers" lists, I feel good about putting myself out there. I'm content in knowing that I'm pursuing the thing that I love and honored to have those who believe in me cheering me on. 

I think I'm finally on the "write" path. 


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