Christmas Eve Thoughts

It has been a bit of a strange year for me, one with joys and sorrows both.

I published my first novel, She Dies at the End (November Snow Book 1). I did everything myself, including the cover photography, the cover design, and the paperback conversion. I don't really recommend that for everyone, but it seems to have turned out reasonably well in my case. The experience was challenging, rewarding, and ever so much fun.

My paranormal romp seems to have been reasonably well-received, though I will admit sales haven't been quite what one might hope. Still, people seem to be enjoying it quite a bit, which is lovely.

November Snow has brought me messages and help from friends I haven't seen in years. My foray into indie authorship has also afforded me the opportunity to meet other self-published writers who provide moral support and who continue to teach me a great deal about writing, editing, and promotion.

Our continuing attempts to adopt another baby, on the other hand, haven't gone so well. Two heartbreaks marred the year, with the most recent failed attempt happening over Thanksgiving. We have been waiting three years, and we have had three expectant mothers choose us only to change their minds at the hospital and decide to parent. We are trying to discern whether or not to continue our efforts. Perhaps we are meant to remain a family of three.

As I look forward to 2016, I hope that my second novel will turn out as well as the first, and that my small but devoted circle of fans will be pleased. I hope that whatever we decide about our adoption journey, that it will be the right decision and one we will be at peace with making and living out. I hope that I will have the strength to continue pursuing my writing dream, and that the well of ideas won't run dry. And I hope that happiness finds all of you who are kind enough to read my words.


Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!


She Dies at the End is available free on Kindle until December 26th!

Why do a paperback?

With e-books becoming so easy to produce, and gaining more and more popularity, many independent authors focus exclusively on that format. Why, then, did I take the time to produce a paperback version of my novel, She Dies at the End?


Paper still has appeal for the reader


Many people, even young people, still enjoy reading paper books. There is something about the feel of the paper, the sensation of turning the pages, even the smell of books, that is incredibly appealing. It's also easier on the eyes than a back-lit screen, though Kindle designers have worked hard on that problem and made considerable progress.


There is also the fact that many people are not comfortable with the constant use of screens, and they will never read a book that isn't printed. I wanted my work to be available to them, too.


Producing something tangible is satisfying


There is something very satisfying for a writer in producing a hard copy of her work. I was so excited to hold my first hard copy proof when it arrived in the mail. I got to admire it and feel the pride that comes with being able to say, "I created this thing my very own self." And in my case, I did it all myself, cover design and formatting included.


Seeing your e-book appear on Amazon and seeing it getting downloaded is also satisfying, but being able to touch your creation is pretty special. And what can be more fun than seeing it on the shelf next to books you've read and loved, books that have influenced your life and your writing?












I would encourage other indie authors to consider publishing paperbacks as well as e-books. With print on demand, there is no longer a huge financial investment required to self-publish on paper. If you have the time to handle the conversion yourself, it is very educational. If you have the money to pay someone else to do it for you, and you don't want the hassle, more power to you. But I think it's worth trying at least once. I'll be blogging soon with some tips for the first-timer. Happy writing, and happy reading!