So many of you have reached out that I thought it was time for an update.
I love to write, but life has presented a few unexpected detours.
For years, I was a full-time caregiver for my lovely mother. As her needs increased, my writing time steadily decreased. Then came Covid. For two years, we barely left home.
Eventually, Mom passed away peacefully. Afterwards, I needed time alone to regroup. Unplugging my phone became my favorite pastime.
Before long, I began to work on my first three books. As a self-taught graphic designer, I do everything myself, and every step takes time.
I decided to increase the page count of each book by decreasing the trim size. That meant every interior page had to be reformatted. Changing the page count also changed the spine width, so each cover had to be resized as well. Rather than simply resize them, I took the opportunity to give them a fresh look. Thanks to the golden talent of artist Terrence Kennedy—whom many of you know—the covers look so much more refined.
My creativity flourished—until I was diagnosed with breast cancer. As I’ve shared before, that diagnosis and everything that followed was like having a stop sign thrust in front of me. Healing took precedence. Once again my writing projects were on hold.
Fast forward a year and a half. Thankfully, my mammograms have shown no signs of cancer. (Heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to my GoFundMe page. Your kindness and generosity made a significant difference.) I still have ongoing health concerns and frequent appointments with both holistic and traditional physicians. But in between those visits I am reclaiming my life and back to working on my writing projects full time.
Soon, I will print all three manuscripts for a final read-through. (Yes, I have an amazing editor but still like to give each book one last careful review myself.)
Next, I am considering shifting my book distribution from Lightning Source to Ingram Spark. Once that is set and the updated documents are uploaded, I will take the necessary steps to convert my print books to eBooks, which I will then upload to Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Then (drum roll please) I’ll be ready to begin marketing.
Sidenote: KDP offers a promotional feature I like. If you are exclusive with your eBook distribution for at least 90 days, you can give your eBook away for free for 5 days of your choice.
Then comes the part I am eagerly anticipating: my next three books. One is my very first work of fiction, inspired by a dream. Such a fun project.
Thank you for your patience, your encouragement, and for staying with me through this journey. More updates soon!
