Why Amazon Book Reviews Matter for First-Time Authors

As a first-time author, I can't stress enough the importance of book reviews, especially on Amazon. When I wrote "The Ice House," I poured my heart into creating a story that would resonate with middle-grade readers, hoping to inspire and engage.

As I've learned more about writing as a career, I've seen first hand the reality that Amazon book reviews hold significant weight—they can make or break a book's journey in the massive literary market. These reviews not only help other readers discover new stories but also provide invaluable feedback for authors who are just starting their careers.

The Ice House was released during COVID, and I had a hard time connecting with fellow writers. I was so lucky to have received such lovely reviews from middle grade authors I'd admired for years, to serve as book blurbs. I'll be eternally grateful to Jasmine Warga, Kate O'Slaugnesy, Dusty Bowing, and Melissa Savage for the time they took to read and review The Ice House, and I truly believe their generosity has had a massively positive impact on the book's success.

What I didn't know, however, was the importance of requesting Amazon reviews. To be honest, I've always been more likely to encourage readers to buy from local book stores, which meant that my attention was directed more toward outreach there. But even if everyone shops local, Amazon still serves as a place where awareness about books grows.

I wish I'd done more to ask for, campaign, and encourage early readers to share their thoughts on Amazon. This post from Jane Friedman gives great practical advice on getting started generating your reviews, which I wish I'd followed back when I was getting ready for The Ice House's release.

Today, I want to share why your amazon book reviews matter so much and how they can profoundly impact first-time authors like me.

The Power of Amazon Reviews

Impact of Amazon Book Reviews on First-Time Authors

For first-time authors, Amazon book reviews are more than just feedback; they are lifelines. These reviews offer validation, guiding new writers on their journey in the literary world.

A positive review can boost an author's confidence, encouraging them to continue crafting stories. Conversely, constructive criticism helps them improve, shaping their future works. Maybe most important, though, reviews significantly impact an author's visibility on Amazon.

Books with more reviews are more likely to be recommended to other readers, increasing their reach.

This can be a game-changer for first-time authors trying to establish themselves. Thus, every review, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in an author's success.

Building Trust with Readers

Amazon book reviews also help build trust between authors and readers.

When potential readers see positive reviews, they are more likely to give a new book a chance.

This is especially vital for first-time authors who don't have an established reputation. Reviews serve as social proof, demonstrating that the book has been read and enjoyed by others.

I know first hand that reviews that The Ice House has received from school principals, librarians, and educators have had a very positive impact on other members of the education community. This is because we trust our colleagues when it comes to finding quality resources, materials, and of course, books, that will have a positive impact on our students.

As a middle grade author, there's an even more critical reason to build up a strong base of amazon book reviews -- often, the middle grade reader is not the purchaser! Parents, teachers, librarians, and other caring adults in the lives of 3rd-8th graders are the ones looking for a great book they will love. Reading a strong Amazon Book Review can sway a purchaser to buy the book based on an educator or parent's feedback on their child's reaction.

Moreover, honest reviews offer transparency, helping readers make informed decisions. A detailed review can highlight the strengths of a book and address any potential concerns, making it easier for readers to decide if the book fits their interests. This trust-building aspect is crucial, as it fosters a loyal readership, encouraging readers to follow the author's future works.

Boosting Book Visibility

Amazon reviews play a crucial role in boosting a book's visibility. The more reviews a book garners, the higher its ranking on Amazon's search results. This increased visibility can make a significant difference for first-time authors, helping their books stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Crucially, books with a substantial number of reviews are more likely to be featured in Amazon's "Customers who bought this also bought" section.

This kind of exposure can drive more potential readers to discover and purchase the book. For an author just starting out, such organic reach is invaluable. It amplifies their marketing efforts without additional cost, making it easier for their stories to reach a broader audience.

How Amazon Book Reviews Help Authors

Emotional Support and Encouragement

For first-time authors, Amazon reviews offer much-needed emotional support and encouragement. Writing a book is a deeply personal endeavor, often filled with self-doubt and vulnerability. Reviews affirm that an author's hard work has resonated with readers, offering reassurance that their voice matters.

Receiving positive feedback can be a powerful motivator, inspiring authors to continue their creative pursuits. It validates their artistic vision and encourages them to keep sharing their stories with the world. Even constructive criticism has its place, providing authors with insights to refine their craft.

Moreover, knowing that someone took the time to read and review their book fosters a sense of connection between authors and readers. This relationship can be incredibly uplifting, reinforcing the notion that writing is a collaborative journey. With each review, authors find the strength to embrace new challenges, reassured by the knowledge that their work has made an impact.

Community and Connection

Amazon reviews foster a sense of community and connection between authors and readers. When readers leave reviews, they become part of a dialogue, sharing their interpretations and thoughts about the book. This interaction creates a bridge between the writer and the audience, making the reading experience more communal.

For first-time authors, this sense of community is particularly invaluable. It builds a network of supporters who are genuinely interested in the author's journey and future works. Engaging with reviewers through comments or acknowledgments can strengthen these bonds, turning casual readers into loyal fans.

Furthermore, this connection extends beyond individual interactions—it fosters a broader literary community where authors and readers can exchange ideas and recommendations. Through this network, readers support not only a single book but a larger ecosystem of stories and creativity. Thus, Amazon reviews do more than evaluate a book; they contribute to an ongoing conversation that enriches the literary world.

Why "The Ice House" Needs Your Review

"The Ice House" is more than just a book; it's a labor of love crafted to inspire and engage middle-grade readers. As a first-time author, I'm reaching out to ask for your support in its journey. Your reviews on Amazon can significantly impact the book's visibility and success, helping it reach the young minds it aims to inspire.

Each review not only contributes to the book's ranking but also provides me with invaluable feedback. This helps me grow as an author, refining my craft and ensuring my stories continue to resonate with readers. By sharing your thoughts, you become an integral part of "The Ice House" community, helping others discover its message of resilience and creativity.

If you've read "The Ice House," please consider leaving a review here. Your words can make a world of difference, encouraging other readers to embark on this literary journey and supporting the creation of future stories.

How to Leave a Review

Leaving a review for The Ice House on Amazon is a straightforward process that can greatly aid in the book's journey. Scroll down to the "Customer Reviews" section on the book's Amazon listing page, where you’ll find an option to "Write a customer review." Click on it, and you'll be prompted to rate the book on a scale of one to five stars.

Next, share your thoughts in the text box provided. There's no need for an elaborate essay; even a few sentences about what you enjoyed or how the book resonated with you can be incredibly impactful. If you’re comfortable, mention any specific aspects of the story or characters that stood out to you.

Once you’ve composed your review, simply click "Submit." Your contribution will not only support the book's visibility but also encourage other readers to explore its pages. Thank you for taking the time to make a difference!

Join the Supportive Community

By leaving a review for "The Ice House," you become part of a vibrant and supportive community of readers and creators. This network thrives on shared knowledge and experiences, where each member contributes to the growth and success of new stories. Your review doesn't just help a book; it strengthens a communal bond that fuels the literary world.

Engaging with this community offers an opportunity to connect with fellow readers who share your passion for storytelling. It also provides a platform for dialogue, where diverse perspectives and insights enrich the reading experience. Your participation helps cultivate an environment where creativity is celebrated and nurtured.

As a member of this supportive community, your voice amplifies the reach of new stories like "The Ice House," ensuring they find their way to eager readers. Together, we can champion the power of literature, making a meaningful impact on authors and readers alike. Thank you so much for being part of this journey and spreading the news about The Ice House!

By doing so, you help create an opportunity for me to write more stories and connect with more readers, and I will be forever grateful :)

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If you have read and enjoyed The Ice House, I would so appreciate if you consider leaving a kind review on Amazon using the button below.

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Unleash Your Inner Wordsmith: Insider Secrets to Magnify Your Creative Writing Prowess

Do you ever find yourself daydreaming about a movie, a tv show, or a book when your mind wanders? During a class, a meeting, or a particularly dull conversation, are you ever distracted by ideas and stories of characters you can’t get out of your head? 

When I was bored at school, I spent countless hours zoning out on imagined worlds when I needed an escape. While procrastinating some task I dreaded getting started, I would write short stories, sketch character illustrations, or rewatch a favorite scene of a tv show to analyze character direction or dialogue.

Looking back, I can see that writing was always a part of my life, even if I didn’t believe I’d ever be a “real” author. It wasn’t untiI I began to acknowledge that my passions for reading, writing, tv analysis, etc. were unique that my perspective started to shift. With that, my behavior toward writing changed as well, in ways that have made all the difference.

That’s not to say that I haven’t dealt with tons of self-doubt, writer's block, and general discouragement over the seemingly endless task of revising and polishing. But I have managed to find ways to move forward despite it all. These are my top (sometimes unconventional) tips on how to overpower these roadblocks and develop strategies to support you in your writing goals.

Tip 1: Establishing a Consistent Writing Routine

It’s the best feeling to watch the word count of your work in progress manuscript rise toward the goal you’ve set. When you make writing a daily habit, you’ll not only improve your skills over time but you’ll start to see steady progress toward your goals.

As a decidedly Type B person, I do sometimes struggle to stick to self-imposed schedules, so my advice here might stray from the norm.  

For all of you type A writing angels, if you are great at scheduling time to work on your writing pursuits, then by all means, set aside dedicated time each day or week to work on your writing projects, regardless of your current level of inspiration or motivation.

If you are more like me, however, you may find that you have a defeatist mindset about fitting time for writing into your overbooked schedule. Maybe it’s insufficient dopamine, or maybe its a desire on my part to avoid the dark, overwhelming feeling of writer’s block. Either way, I’ve had to develop my own system for meeting my writing goals.

I wrote my debut novel, The Ice House, while I was working as a special education teacher.  Teaching was exhausting enough without trying to manage reaching a word count in a specified time period.

My solution? I’d turn writing into a time to channel my angst productively. I’d listen to playlists comprised of some of the moodiest songs of my adolescent years, perhaps revisit an episode of a particularly addicting tv show, and then, when I’d sufficiently prepped my mindset, I’d start writing. It didn’t have to be for hours a day, and it wasn’t daily.

When I didn’t force myself to carve out the time, it became something I wanted to fit into my days as often as possible. It became something fun, just for me, and a way to dwell in moodiness with a positive outcome. A nice side note? It gave me a place to put all of my stress, frustration, or other negative emotions.

Tip One, Part Two (Yes, I need two parts to explain the tricks I have to play on my brain to accomplish things)

When I was in the editing process for The Ice House, there were deadlines that my publisher made. Looming deadlines definitely provided the pressure I needed to ensure that I actually get to work on writing. However, these deadlines did not suddenly turn me into someone with great time management skills who could write without motivation.

The first tool that I recommend if you find yourself in the same boat is The Pomodoro Method. As a visual person who tends to procrastinate, the Pomodoro Method creates the illusion of tension — as if every 25 minutes is a new deadline that I must rush to meet.  It provides a visual marker that I’ve completed something tangible.

I find that using the pomodoro method makes writing manageable for me. It’s less intimidating. It allows me a level of flexibility. I can tell myself that I will try to squeeze in one pomodoro of writing in between two other tasks I have, and sometimes feel so accomplished by the time my timer goes off that I complete a second pomodoro voluntarily! It may not be for you, but I recommend trying it out once or twice. There are a few different websites and apps that I’ve tried out, but my favorite is Pomofocus.

My second tool recommendation is less conventional, but was equally helpful for me. I invested in a frother for my morning coffee. Why? Well, because having legitimate, publisher-imposed deadlines to meet while also working a demanding full time job required that I had to wake up at least two hours earlier than normal. By now you may have guessed that I am not naturally a morning person.

It turns out that making yourself a fancy latte with oat milk and cinnamon in a pretty mug can actually make an early wake up feel luxurious. This is not something I ever did before this editing process, and the shift I made by pairing those two hours of AM writing with a delicious, instagram-worthy coffee created a really pleasant association that sometimes actually made me look forward to those quiet hours of editing.

Tip 2: Understanding Your Target Audience

Another essential aspect of learning how to write well is understanding your target audience. This means considering the preferences, interests, and expectations of your future readers.

I’ve found that researching your target audience can actually act as a solution for writer’s block.

No, it doesn’t suddenly resolve the issue you’re running into in your plot or with your character development, but it does help to frame your story’s overall narrative. For example, when I was writing The Ice House, I definitely stalled out for weeks at certain stages, unable to resolve a specific plot point, or to see how a secondary character fit into a larger story arc.

I would work to put myself in the mindset of a middle schooler, remembering (and sometimes dwelling) on my own experiences during those years. I took a piece of paper and recorded anything and everything I could remember about incidents that made me sad, happy, jealous, furious back then. I thought of how I acted as a result. I reflected on how different kids in the school where I taught reacted to various situations, remembering that no two kids have the exact same reactions, expectations, or experiences.

What does this research look like?

Well, if I were writing a mystery, I’d read some of the most popular mysteries, probably lots of Agatha Christie, and some of the best sellers of recent years as well. I’d check out reviews from readers online, and I’d make a list of some of my favorite mystery books, starting from Nancy Drew as a kid and moving up to remembering my experience reading that twist in Gone Girl. I’d record what I’d wanted to know, what twists or turns were disappointing, if there were trends I gravitated toward or moved away from.

By devoting some additional time to my target audience research throughout the writing process, I can create a reset while considering different approaches that can help shake things up and resolve my writer’s block.

Tip 3: Embracing the Revision Process

Revising takes a level of objectivity that you really need to develop with practice. It’s maybe the most crucial part of learning how to write well. While daunting and time-consuming, it’s unavoidable. I’ve come to view it as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

To make the most of the revision process, approach your work with a critical eye. I focus on story elements topic by topic, and do separate edits for each. For example, I focus on grammar only for one read, plot for another, character development, pacing, and dialogue. I also find that it can be really helpful to read sections of the manuscript out loud while you edit, especially dialogue.

I also have found that reading objectively well crafted books throughout the period I spend revising is helpful. You begin to recognize why these books work, and in turn, start to notice areas of your own manuscript that are unnecessary or need work.

It’s ongoing, and with time, practice, and by reading great books, you’ll get stronger at it.

Tip 4: Seeking and Incorporating Feedback from Others

Incorporating feedback from others can be a bit tricky. When we seek input from others, ideally we gain valuable insights into our manuscript that we may not have considered on our own. This feedback can help you identify areas for improvement, and can also highlight the strengths of your writing.

So, the first step is deciding who you want to ask to read your work in progress. Your early readers should be people in your life that you know are good writers themselves or who have proven to be good readers. What makes a good reader? I think people in my life fall into this category if I know that they are consistently reading books and making strong recommendations. Or, if I have known them well enough over time to have had conversations that show they have an understanding of craft, can explain why books work or don’t work for them, or have shared other comments that make it clear they are insightful about literature overall.

If you don’t have anyone in your circle that you think would be able to provide this kind of insight, don’t worry! I would consider joining a writing workshop course. There are plenty of virtual writing workshops these days. In my opinion, two of the most valuable aspects participating in a writing workshop are getting actionable feedback and becoming familiar with receiving other’s thoughts and opinions on your work.

Whenever we incorporate feedback into our writing, it is important to remember that not all advice will be useful. It’s up to you to be selective about the feedback you choose to implement. Ultimately, you get to decide how to revise and what will improve your manuscript.

Tip 5: Staying Inspired and Motivated Throughout the Writing Journey

I’m a fan of using visualization to help myself stay motivated when I’m working on a new piece of writing. I like to picture my finished manuscript, channel future me, overjoyed at the relief of having my book out in the world. I also have found comfort in researching the writing journeys of authors I admire, and reading what they share about their writing process. When you do, you often recognize that most writers have had the same feelings you are having: wanting to give up, wondering if they should even keep working on a manuscript, overwhelmed by plot holes, self-doubt. It’s a reminder that these feelings are just part of the process.

You need to find what will work best for you when you’re looking to sustain your writing practice. Setting realistic word count goals and celebrating your achievements along the way, finding others who have achieved writing goals you share and connecting with them (like me!), and finding a method that works for you to carve out time to dedicate to writing are all ways to build sustainability throughout your writing journey.

Another way to stay inspired is to continually expose yourself to new ideas. To do this, I try to read across various genres, see new movies and watch tv shows outside of my usual sphere of interest, and seek out short stories from new writers.

By constantly encountering different modes of storytelling from unique voices, you will not only improve your ability to discern good writing from bad, but you’ll gain new inspiration and enthusiasm that will support you as you write.

You’ve got this!

Accessing your writing potential takes time and dedication, but achieving your writing goals is one of the best feelings in the world. Remember that writing success can mean whatever you want it to mean. Sure, it can mean being published, but it can also mean expressing your creativity and sharing your unique voice with the world.

So there you have it, just a few of the strategies I’ve developed that have helped me achieve the writing goals I’ve set for myself. If you’re looking for some regular inspo to support you on your journey, I would love for you to sign up for my newsletter below, where I will be sharing more strategies and resources to help kickstart your writing practice.

Embarking on the Literary Adventure: A Beginner's Odyssey to Landing that First Book Deal

As an aspiring author, navigating the complex world of publishing can be intimidating. In fact, until I’d actually been through the entire traditionally published cycle, I was never quite sure of what to expect.

It would have been super helpful if someone who had just been through it for the first time had explained it to me with unfiltered guidance. So, that’s what you’ll find in this post. I’ll walk you through the process of understanding book deals and the steps you need to take to secure one. We’ll also discuss the importance of literary agents, how to cope with rejection, and the resources available to help you on your journey. So let’s dive in and learn how to get a book deal!

Introduction to the Publishing World

The publishing world is honestly still very mysterious to me. It can be overwhelming, so personally, I try to just focus on my writing (like the introvert that I am).

Of course, that’s but a dream now. I’ve faced my fears, so I can share with you some of what I’ve learned.

When we talk about traditional publishing, we are talking about working with a publisher who manages the entire production, marketing, and distribution process for your book. Traditional publishing is highly competitive, but it can also provide huge benefits. When you’ve secured a book deal with a traditional publishing company, you can expect your manuscript to receive professional editing, marketing support, and access to a wider audience.

My editor for The Ice House was Andrea Spooner at Little, Brown Young Readers, and for a debut author, I think working with her was invaluable. I learned so much about the craft of writing from a true expert. Based on my own learning style, I really feel this was ideal, because I was sharpening my skills while working toward specific deadlines.

Understanding Book Deals and How They Work

When an author signs a contract for their book deal, they are entering into a binding agreement with a publisher. The publisher acquires the rights to publish and distribute the author’s work in exchange for royalties, which are a percentage of the book’s sales.

These contracts include details like when you will be required to submit the finished manuscript, an approximate word count, and terms of the advance offered and royalty rates. Advances are a lump sum payment made to the author before the book is published, and they are essentially a loan against your future royalties. Royalties are calculated based on the net sales price of the book and vary by format. E-Book royalties are different from hard copy royalties, for example.

Steps to Getting a Book Deal: From Manuscript to Contract

Now that we’re clear on what a book deal actually is, I’ll outline the major steps any writer aiming to get published would follow:

• Polish your manuscript: As a writer seeking first-time publication of a fiction manuscript, the most important step in securing a book deal is to have a well-written, polished manuscript. Ultimately, the quality of your manuscript will make or break its success. If, for example, you write an amazing query letter and an agent does give your manuscript a read — if it’s not well written, you will lose that opportunity, regardless of how amazing it sounded in your pitch. When you think your manuscript is as strong as it could possibly be, step away from it for at least a week (some people would say month).

• Conduct a final round of editing: When you return to it with fresh eyes, check your manuscript is free of grammatical errors. Make sure that you can articulate the plot in three to four concise sentences. Be able to explain what each character wants, and how those desires connect to the overall theme of the book. If you have people in your life who have proven to be strong writers or readers in the past, seek feedback from them. Be open to making revisions based on their suggestions, but be judicious here. If you don’t agree with their feedback, ask yourself why, and if you have a compelling case for ignoring it, then do so. Ultimately it is yours, and you have to feel confident in your decisions and be able to explain why you made them.

• Write a compelling query letter: A query letter is a one-page pitch that introduces you and your manuscript to potential agents. It should include a brief synopsis of your story, a hook to grab the reader’s attention, and any relevant information about your writing credentials or platform if you have one. Make sure your query letter is well-written, concise, and targeted to the specific agent or publisher you’re approaching. I spent tons of time looking at examples of query letters I could find online. I am definitely not an authority on how to write the perfect query letter — I found it to be one the hardest parts of this whole process. In retrospect though I think it is easy to make too much of query letters and let fear over them delay or even stop the submission process. Do the best you can based on query letter guides and examples you find online. Good is better than perfect. Mine definitely wasn’t amazing, but I’m here on the other side with a published book.

• Research agents and publishers: Before submitting your manuscript, research agents and publishers who would be a good fit for your work. Look for those who represent authors in your genre and have a track record of successful book deals. Make sure these agents are actually open to submission before you spend time crafting a perfect query letter only to learn they aren’t taking on new clients. You can find this information by browsing their websites, reading interviews, and checking online resources like AgentQuery or Publishers Marketplace. It’s also helpful to look at some of your favorite authors in your genre, and see who represents them.

• Submit your work: Once you’ve identified potential agents or publishers, follow their submission guidelines carefully. This may include sending your query letter, a synopsis, and a sample of your manuscript. Be patient, as response times can vary from a few weeks to several months. Most agents open to submission include details on when to expect a response. If that time frame passes, definitely follow up politely. Agents have very full inboxes, and you never know.

• Gaining representation: If an agent is interested in your work, they will generally offer you representation. They may provide feedback and notes for changes on your manuscript before they sign you to get a sense of how you work, or they might sign you and then provide input on strategic edits for you to make before going out on submission. It varies. Having an agent is crucial for many reasons. One of the biggest benefits for me was having an expert guide me through the negotiations that come along with submitting to publishing houses and responding to publishing contracts.

Importance of Literary Agents in Securing a Book Deal

Literary agents play a crucial role in the publishing industry, acting as intermediaries between authors and publishers. They have extensive knowledge of the market and can help you find the right publisher for your work. Some of the benefits of working with a literary agent include:

• Access to publishers: Many publishers only accept submissions from literary agents, making it difficult for unrepresented authors to get their work considered.

• Negotiating power: Literary agents are skilled negotiators who can help you secure the best possible book deal, including a higher advance and better royalty rates.

• Contract expertise: Agents have extensive experience with publishing contracts and can help you navigate the complex terms and conditions.

• Career guidance: An agent can provide valuable advice and support throughout your writing career, from helping you develop your author platform to strategizing about future projects.

Navigating Rejection and Staying Persistent

Rejection is an inevitable part of the publishing process, and it’s important to remember that even the most successful authors have faced rejection at some point in their careers. Something I’ve come to realize is that the rejection never actually ends. Rejection and criticism and negative feedback are obviously different based on their intent, but to deal with them you have to develop the same sort of thick skin.

When I faced rejection or difficult feedback, I told myself that it was a part of being a writer. I acted like it was a daily part of the job of being an author, the same as clearing out your inbox, or another task that is tedious but necessary. If you want to be traditionally published, it helps to act as though you have already succeeded and refuse to let rejection stop you. There are really so many agents out there, so batch your query letters. If a query letter isn’t getting positive responses, tweak it. Keep searching until you find someone who connects with your work.

Here are a few tips for dealing with rejection and staying persistent:

• Don’t take it personally (Really!): Rejection is often based on market trends and other factors beyond your control. Keep in mind that it’s not a reflection of your worth as a writer.

• Learn from feedback: If you receive specific feedback from an agent or publisher, consider whether it might help you improve your manuscript.

• Stay determined: Continue to submit your work to agents and publishers, and don’t be afraid to revise your manuscript or query letter if necessary.

Resources for Aspiring Authors: Books, Workshops, and Online Courses

There are numerous resources available to help aspiring authors navigate the publishing world and improve their craft. Some examples include:

• Books: Some of my favorites are “On Writing” by Stephen King and “Bird by Bird” by Anne Lamott.

• Workshops: Attend writing workshops to network with other writers and to become more comfortable with hearing feedback on your writing. Online writing groups are a great way to add a level of accountability to your writing practice, as you are producing work on a regular basis and sharing it with an audience.

• Online courses: Masterclass has some online courses on writing and publishing that I have found to be really informational and enjoyable. Judy Blume’s and R L Stine’s are my two favorites.

Taking the First Step Towards Your Book Deal

Securing a book deal can be daunting, but it is doable. Remember to stay persistent, keep yourself open to learning along the way, and always remind yourself why you’re on this journey. Think about your future readers, and what you hope they will feel when they read. your book. Picture what it will feel like when it’s accomplished.

Some of you may know that I am a lifelong Little Women fanatic. I still get chills thinking about seeing the Greta Gerwig version for the first time. The look in Jo’s eyes as she sees her book through the printer’s window — her true happily ever after — perfectly captured how it felt to see my book for the first time.

It might feel that way for you, too, one day, when after a great deal of hard work and patience and persistence you hold the first copy of your book in your hands.

I know you can do it, and I can’t wait to read the stories that you alone can tell.

Thanks for spending a few minutes with me today. x