Tell us the story of your Accents Publishing trilogy, WOMAN, TAINTED, and GIRL.
Girl found me when I was attending the Carnegie Center’s Author Academy. She followed me on my walks, told me her story and I wrote it down! It has changed my life in so many positive ways. Katerina challenged me to continue to listen to Girl to see if she had more to say, so Tainted and Woman arrived!
What do you like most about it? Girl’s story is really about resilience! Which I think is so important in life. I think that’s why many people find her story to be hearbreaking and inspiring at the same time.
What did you have to overcome in order to finish and publish a book?
Self doubt. The struggle is real. Once I realized that all I had to do was listen to Girl, it became easier.
What do you hope people learn/receive/experience from reading your book?
I hope that people see themselves in Girl. Her story is universal even though the specifics may be a bit different. She is us, we are her. We can all be resilient, courageous, faithful and positive.
What was your favorite interaction with a reader and/or a fan?
I have been blessed with many positive interactions with those who have read Girl’s story. It has been such a humbling, impactful experience. I have met so many wonderful people through the entire experience. It has also reconnected me with family and friends of long ago!
What are you working on now? Catch us up one significant event in your life since the publications of WOMAN, TAINTED, and GIRL.
I am doing my best to continue to write new stories, poems and whatever pops into my head, although I must admit, Girl is still in my ear. She walks my dog with me daily. So I guess I’ve made a life long connection with her. Who knows where she will take me next. I am looking forward to the adventure.
Optional bonus question: Is there anything you want to get off your chest about writing or publishing?
I can only speak for myself, but I’ve found it very liberating to write and put my words out into the world, and own them. Everyone’s voice deserves to be heard. Oh what a choir we become when we all speak up!
