I believe I mentioned in a column once before, but if not, I am in the process of writ-ing my first novel. Actually, as of early last month, the book is finally written. Now I am in the editing and beta testing portion of the self-publishing process. Since I began this endeavor back in January, it has been nothing but a roller coaster of emotions. One day I am completely satisfied with my work and the next I hate everything I loved the day before. In the end, I realized that I need to stop with the self-doubting and just take a deep breath.
I still find it hard to believe that in 35 days I will be a published author of my very own novel. I suppose it was always a dream of mine, buried somewhere in the back of my mind, but I never really thought it would become a reality.
There is so much more to this process than I ever could have imagined. Cover photography, cover design, book formatting, blog tours, PR, branding design (I mean who would have thought I’d be-come my own brand?) and website design just to name a few.
What I think I have come to love most about this process is the people I have met along the way — from bloggers, readers and authors. I never realized there was such a vast indie (independent publishing) book world out there until I came across it nearly one year ago. I have met so many wonderful women who I now consider some of my dearest friends, even though some I have never met in person. They have been my sounding board and my inspiration. I really don’t know what I would do, today, without many of these fabulous women in my life.
I look forward to sharing more of my writing and publishing experience with you in the coming weeks.
