I’ve been studying the craft of writing for about fifteen years (with several years off in the middle of that), taking classes, reading books, and participating in critique groups. I have sent manuscripts out to agents or editors now and then, and received great feedback, with praise such as, “I’m going to kick myself for not taking this story on, but I have to pass,” or, “We loved this story and can tell you are a talented writer, but we don’t have a place for this story right now.”
As the years passed, I realized I wasn’t in love with the traditional publishing industry. My personality type doesn’t do well with high demand, high criticism, or high stress, which is probably why I haven’t put myself out there as much as my friends have over the years.
I never wanted to self-publish. I wanted someone professional to help me take my stories to the next level, and create stunning covers, and put them in stores, and create audio books for me. But I’ve come to realize the past year that I can learn to do all of that professionally, too, and get to enjoy my own books on my shelf instead of in my dropbox.
So I’m going to experiment with a few books. See what it takes to be self-published, see if I enjoy it, see if anyone out there in the over-saturated market might find and love my stories.
And for the first time in years, I’m excited about writing again! I’ve been learning new things as I’ve tried to figure out this website, and how to format my manuscript, and studying a little graphic design. It’s challenging, but I’ve realized I enjoy having control over how it all turns out!
So join me as I share things I’m learning along the way!
Gaylene Wilson 