S.Z. Estavillo's Blog, page 3

Reaching For The Stars: Redefining Success

Writing has always been a part of me. As a child, I carried a pen and notebook everywhere, scribbling stories and poems. Becoming a published author was my lifelong dream. Like many dreams, I envisioned it with vivid clarity: a bestselling book, accolades, and the validation of success. But dreams, like life, have a way […]

Why Revising Makes Me Want to Nap (And Why That’s Okay)

Revising always makes me sleepy. Not a casual, “I could rest my eyes for a minute” kind of tired, but the kind of mental exhaustion that feels like my brain is waving a white flag. Over time, I’ve learned that this isn’t a bad thing—in fact, it’s a natural part of my process. Here’s why I embrace it and how it actually helps me write better.

The Mental Exhaustion of Revising

Revising is a different beast compared to drafting. While drafting feels creative and free-flowing, revision requires:
•Laser focus: Analyzing each sentence and word choice.
•Tough decisions: Cutting parts you once loved but no longer serve the story.
•Attention to detail: Fixing pacing, structure, and consistency.

This level of deep work isn’t just tiring—it’s draining. It’s no wonder I find myself struggling to keep my eyes open after an hour or two.

Why I Stopped Fighting the Sleepiness

For years, I tried to power through the exhaustion:
•Drinking way too much coffee.
•Forcing myself to sit at my desk for hours.
•Pushing through brain fog, only to end up frustrated.

But eventually, I realized that fighting my body wasn’t working. When I gave myself permission to take a break—whether it was a quick nap or even just stepping away—I returned feeling sharper, more focused, and ready to tackle revisions again.

How Breaks and Naps Improve My Writing

I’ve noticed a few benefits of embracing rest during revisions:
•Fresh perspective: Stepping away gives me distance and clarity.
•Sharper focus: I’m more productive and catch things I missed before.
•Renewed energy: A quick nap can recharge my creativity.

Sometimes, the best ideas come after I’ve rested.

Embrace the Process

If revising makes you sleepy, you’re not alone. Writing takes an incredible amount of mental energy, and rest is part of the process. Instead of fighting it, try leaning into it. Listen to your body, recharge, and come back to the page when you’re ready.

Remember: Writing isn’t just about working hard—it’s about working smart. And sometimes, the smartest thing you can do is take a nap.

The Power of Brainstorming: Unlocking Your Creativity to Move Your Book Forward

As writers, we often face moments when the ideas just won’t flow, or we’re unsure about the direction of our stories. This can feel even more daunting when you’re working on a book series, where the stakes are higher, and consistency matters. But here’s something I’ve found to be incredibly effective: brainstorming.

Brainstorming can reignite creativity, help you untangle plot knots, and give you fresh direction for your next book. The beauty of brainstorming lies in its flexibility—there are so many ways to approach it. Whether you work alone, with someone else, or use technology to assist, brainstorming is a powerful tool that every writer should embrace.

1. Brainstorming Alone: Trusting Your Creative Process

Sometimes, all you need is a quiet space, a notebook (or a blank document), and time to let your thoughts roam freely. Free-writing, mind-mapping, or simply jotting down questions like “What happens next?” or “What if…?” can lead to surprising breakthroughs.

When brainstorming alone, don’t worry about whether your ideas are perfect. The goal is to let them flow without judgment. Even ideas that feel outlandish at first can spark something brilliant. Trust yourself and the creative process.

2. Brainstorming with Someone Else: The Power of Collaboration

Two (or more) minds are often better than one. Brainstorming with another person—whether it’s a friend, critique partner, or even someone outside the writing world—can unlock ideas you hadn’t considered. When you say your ideas out loud or bounce them off someone else, you gain clarity and perspective.

Collaborating can also help you see gaps or opportunities in your plot. You might share an idea and hear, “What if this character did X instead?” or “What if you added a twist here?”—and suddenly, the story opens up in exciting ways.

If you don’t have a writing partner, consider joining a writers’ group, participating in workshops, or even just chatting with a friend who loves storytelling.

3. Brainstorming with AI: A Modern Tool for Writers

While AI tools like ChatGPT are still a hot topic in the creative world, there’s no denying their value when it comes to brainstorming. Think of AI as a neutral brainstorming partner—one that’s always available, judgment-free, and ready to generate ideas.

Here are a few ways you can use AI for brainstorming:
• Generate plot ideas: Ask AI to help you outline potential plot points for your genre.
• Character development: Need help fleshing out your antagonist or side characters? Describe them to AI and ask for suggestions.
• Explore “what if” scenarios: For example, “What are some unexpected twists that could happen in a fantasy novel?”
• Outline assistance: Struggling to structure your book? AI can suggest outline templates to get you started.

The key is to use AI as a tool, not a replacement for your creativity. It can help you explore ideas faster and from different angles, but your unique voice and vision are what bring the story to life.

4. Inspiration Through Genre Media: Books, Shows, and Movies

Sometimes brainstorming doesn’t look like traditional brainstorming at all. Watching movies, TV shows, or reading books in your genre can spark ideas for your own work. It’s not about copying; it’s about observing storytelling techniques, character arcs, and plot twists that resonate with you.

Ask yourself questions while you watch or read:
• “Why did this scene work so well?”
• “What would I change if I wrote this?”
• “How can I make a twist like this feel unique in my story?”

By engaging with media, you can jump-start your imagination and approach your book with a new perspective.

5. Combine Multiple Brainstorming Methods

There’s no rule saying you have to stick to just one method of brainstorming. In fact, combining approaches can be even more effective. You might start with solo brainstorming, use AI to expand on those ideas, and then bring your best thoughts to a writing partner for feedback.

For example:
• Begin with a mind-map to explore your ideas.
• Use AI to fill in gaps or generate additional options.
• Discuss your favorite ideas with a fellow writer to refine them further.

The more methods you try, the more opportunities you create to discover that “aha” moment.

Brainstorming Helped Me—And It Can Help You Too

Recently, I found myself feeling stuck with my book series. I wasn’t sure where the story should go next, and that lack of direction weighed me down. So, I turned to brainstorming—trying multiple methods to explore my options.

I spent time free-writing, watching genre-specific shows to get inspired, and even using ChatGPT to help flesh out some plotting ideas. By the end of the process, I felt so much clearer about where my story needed to go. That mix of tools and techniques gave me exactly the direction I was looking for.

If you’re struggling to move forward in your writing, I encourage you to embrace the power of brainstorming. Whether you do it alone, with a partner, or with tools like AI, the process can breathe new life into your story and help you uncover ideas you didn’t know were waiting for you.

Your creativity deserves space to roam. Start brainstorming today—you’ll be amazed at what you discover.

Twas the Write Before Christmas: A Holiday Checklist for Writers🎄

The holidays are here, and for writers, it’s the perfect mix of cozy vibes and creative chaos. Whether you’re finishing a draft, polishing up edits, or just trying to squeeze in a few words between all the festivities, this season is full of inspiration. Here’s a quick checklist to keep your writing on track—and your holiday spirit alive.

Jingle All the Drafts

Get that chapter done. Wrap up those edits. Even just a little progress feels great before the year ends. Plus, who doesn’t want to start the new year with one less project hanging over their head?

Mistle-Toast to Your Typos

Every typo you catch is one step closer to a polished story. Celebrate the small wins (and maybe reward yourself with some holiday cookies while you’re at it).

Silent Night? Not for Writers

Characters screaming in your head? Story ideas hitting you in the middle of a holiday party? That’s just part of the job. Embrace the chaos and see where it takes you—you never know when inspiration will strike.

Deck the Pages

Add some festive cheer to your writing space. A candle, some string lights, or even a holiday playlist can work wonders for the creative mood.

Read if You Get Stuck

Sometimes the best way to move forward in your writing is to pause and pick up a book. Revisit an old favorite, explore a new genre, or dive into something seasonal. Reading can spark fresh ideas and help you untangle any plot knots.

Gift Your Readers

The holidays are about giving, so why not share something fun with your readers? A sneak peek, a short story, or even just a heartfelt message can go a long way in keeping them excited about your work.

Try a Goodreads Giveaway

If you’re looking for a way to build buzz for your book, consider running a Goodreads giveaway. While Goodreads now charges for these promotions, they’re worth it for the exposure. Giveaways can encourage readers to save your book as “To Be Read” (TBR) on Goodreads, creating long-term interest and helping your book stand out. Many authors, including myself, have had great success with these campaigns.

Writing Is Magic

At the end of the day, your words are a gift. They could be exactly what someone needs to feel a little warmer, a little happier, or a little more hopeful this season.

So, what are you working on before the year ends? Let’s celebrate the season—and the stories we’re creating—together.

Beware of Book Marketers: What Authors Need to Know Before Investing in Services

Navigating the publishing world as an author is challenging enough, but marketing your book? That’s a whole other beast. For many writers, the idea of hiring a book marketer sounds like a lifeline—but here’s the truth: not all book marketers are created equal. In fact, many aren’t marketers at all but individuals hoping to make a quick buck off vulnerable authors.

Here's what every author should know before investing their hard-earned money.

A Website Isn’t Enough

A professional book marketer should offer more than a sleek website and glowing testimonials. The proof is in the data. Before you even consider working with someone, ask for:

• A Pitch Deck or Marketing Proposal: This should be tailored specifically to authors. It must include clear strategies on how they plan to help you achieve your goals—whether that’s boosting sales, gaining reviews, or creating buzz.

• Proven Track Record: Look for data that demonstrates their success. How many authors have they worked with? What were the measurable results? Screenshots of past campaigns aren’t enough—you need real metrics like before-and-after sales comparisons, review counts, and audience engagement stats.

Beware of Fluffy Metrics

Many book marketers boast about high email open rates or engagement metrics, but let’s be honest: that’s not what matters. As authors, our priority is conversion rates—how well those efforts turn into book sales, reviews, or buzz.

For example:

A 50% open rate on an email campaign is meaningless if it doesn’t translate to sales.

Social media metrics should focus on paid campaign results, organic reach, and how they converted into tangible outcomes like Amazon reviews or Goodreads ratings.

Red Flags to Watch For

Sadly, many marketers slide into authors’ DMs with lofty promises but little professionalism. Here’s what should make you cautious:

• Messy Communication: If their emails are riddled with typos, incomplete sentences, or vague proposals, that’s a clear sign they aren’t ready to handle your book’s marketing.

• No Conversion Data: If they can’t provide evidence of successful campaigns or show how their efforts translated into sales or reviews, walk away.

• No Influencer Network: A legit marketer should already have a network of book influencers they’ve worked with. If they don’t, they’re probably not connected to the industry.

The Cost vs. Benefit

Many marketers charge hundreds or even thousands of dollars, but without proof of their effectiveness, you’re gambling with your investment. As a debut author with a master’s degree in television, radio, and film, 22 certifications in digital marketing, and over a decade of professional marketing experience, I understand how hard it is to market books—even with more than 90,000 followers across social platforms.

The DIY Alternative

While book marketing is time-consuming, self-promotion is often a better option than trusting your book to someone who can’t prove their worth. Here’s why:

• Control:You know your book best, and you can speak authentically to your audience.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Instead of spending money on an unproven service, you can invest in tools to amplify your own marketing efforts (ads, giveaways, or influencer outreach).

• Learning Opportunity: Marketing your own book helps you understand what works—and what doesn’t—for your audience, a skill you can refine for future releases.

What Legit Book Marketers Should Offer

If you’re considering hiring someone, they should have:

• A detailed pitch deck outlining strategies for your book. Data on past campaigns that show tangible results (sales, reviews, or engagement growth). A robust influencer list and connections within the book community.

• The ability to demonstrate their role in creating buzz, not just a passive reliance on tools you already use. It is not enough to have screenshots. Their pitch deck should be extremely detailed with actual proof. They should have many references from their former author clients as evidence of their success.

Final Thoughts

Authors, especially debut ones, are often targeted by individuals claiming to be book marketers. But remember: promises mean nothing without proof. If a marketer can’t show you how they’ll help your book thrive—or if their professionalism is lacking—it’s better to self-promote. You can achieve results on your own with time, dedication, and the right tools. Don't let desperation lead you into a scam. Protect your work, your wallet, and your peace of mind.

After all, your book deserves more than empty promises. If your inbox keeps getting flooded with unsolicited DMs from so-called book marketers, don’t hesitate to unfollow, mute, or block them. Protect your time, energy, and focus—it’s better spent on authentic connections and promoting your book on your terms.

Stop Comparing Your Journey in Publishing—Celebrate Your Wins

One of the hardest but most important lessons I’ve learned in publishing is to stop comparing my path to others. It’s natural to look around and see what other authors are doing—who has the bigger deal, the flashier agent, the glowing reviews, or the higher sales numbers. In an industry as competitive as publishing, it can feel like there’s always someone who has more.

And let’s be honest: it’s defeating. It’s so easy to fall into the trap of comparison, but all it does is rob you of joy. Comparison is the fastest path to doubt, frustration, and even depression. It makes you question your worth, your talent, and whether you even belong. Worst of all, it diminishes your own wins, making them feel like they’re “not enough.”

But here’s the thing: every writer’s journey is different. Some find success quickly, while others take years of persistence. Some authors thrive with smaller presses, while others wait longer for larger deals. None of these paths are inherently better than the other; they’re just different. What matters most is your personal progress and the goals you’re striving for—not how you stack up to someone else’s milestones.

And remember, every small win is still a win. Publishing a book, getting a thoughtful review, selling even one copy, connecting with a single reader—these are victories worth celebrating. You finished a draft? That’s a win. You wrote 100 words on a day you wanted to quit? Another win. You’re still in the game, still pushing forward, and that matters.

Publishing isn’t a race; it’s a marathon. And the only competitor that matters is the writer you were yesterday. Instead of focusing on what others have, turn your attention inward. Every step forward is proof of your growth, and your unique voice is worth sharing.

It’s also worth remembering that the public side of publishing—the sales announcements, the accolades, the polished Instagram photos—doesn’t always tell the whole story. Behind every glowing deal or bestseller list is someone who has struggled, doubted themselves, or faced rejection just like you.

So, take a moment to pause. Acknowledge where you are right now. Celebrate how far you’ve come, and keep striving for your goals at your own pace. Every small win builds the foundation for bigger ones. The publishing world is big enough for everyone’s success, and your path is just as valuable as anyone else’s.

Keep going—you’re doing amazing.

The Hardest Lesson I Learned About Publishing: Never Give Up on Your Stories

When I first signed with a literary agent, I thought I’d finally made it. Isn’t that the dream? Landing representation, having someone in your corner to champion your work, and imagining your stories on bookstore shelves. But my reality turned out to be very different. I spent five years with an agent who couldn’t sell my books, and those years felt like they were stolen from me—years of my writing, my career, and my confidence.

With every failed submission, my excitement faded and was replaced by self-doubt. I started questioning everything: Was I good enough? Were my books good enough? Was I wasting my time chasing an impossible dream? For five years, my books sat in limbo, and I wondered if they’d ever see the light of day.

The Turning Point

When my agent and I parted ways, I was at a crossroads. Part of me wanted to quit. If an agent couldn’t sell my books, what chance did I have on my own? But another part of me refused to let go. My stories weren’t just words on a page—they were pieces of me, and I wasn’t ready to abandon them.

So, I took a leap of faith. Without representation, I started submitting directly to small presses. It was daunting and often disheartening to go through the process alone, but eventually, my persistence paid off. Both of my books found a home. A publisher believed in them—and in me.

The Benefits of a Small Press

Publishing through a small press was a completely different experience from the one I’d imagined when I first set out on this journey. While small presses don’t have the massive marketing budgets or widespread name recognition of larger publishers, they offer unique benefits that made all the difference.

One of the most significant advantages of working with a small press is the individualized attention. Unlike with larger publishers, where authors can sometimes feel like just another cog in the machine, small presses have a family vibe. The team is smaller, more personal, and deeply invested in your book’s success. I wasn’t just another title in their catalog—I was a priority.

This personalized approach extended to every stage of the process, from edits to cover design to marketing strategies. My input was valued, and I felt like a true partner in bringing my book to life. This kind of collaboration gave me a level of creative control that I might not have had with a bigger publisher.

Small presses are also more willing to take risks on unique stories and voices that might not fit the traditional mold. That’s something I’m incredibly grateful for because it gave my books a chance to shine when they might have otherwise been overlooked.

Why I’m Grateful I Didn’t Give Up

Looking back, I’m so glad I didn’t give up on my stories. The hardest lesson I learned about publishing is that persistence is everything. The traditional path isn’t the only path, and sometimes the unconventional route leads to the most rewarding experiences.

Publishing through a small press reminded me that the size of the publisher doesn’t define the value of your work. What matters is finding the right home for your stories—a place where your voice is heard, your input is valued, and your books are nurtured.

My Advice to Fellow Authors

For anyone struggling to find their way in publishing, here’s my advice: believe in your stories, even when the odds seem stacked against you. Keep submitting. Keep writing. You never know where your words might take you.

From Zero to Six Books: My Publishing Journey

In an industry that often feels like an uphill climb, I want to share a story of perseverance, resilience, and the unexpected paths that lead to success. If you're an aspiring writer—or even a seasoned one—I hope this inspires you not to give up, no matter how tough the road gets.

Five years ago, I signed with an agent, brimming with dreams of seeing my books on shelves. But here’s the reality: during those five years, I walked away with zero book deals. Yes, you read that right—zero. Four of my manuscripts went out on submission, including a duology I was told would “die on sub.” The rejection letters poured in, each one a sting of critique about what wasn’t working, what wasn’t liked, or why I didn’t make the cut. More than 150 publishers—ranging from the Big 5 to well-known indie publishers and even small presses—rejected my books.

After years of trying, I made the tough decision to part ways with my agent. Just three months later—three months!—I landed a book deal with a small press on my own. The very duology that was supposed to “die on sub”? My new publisher believed in it so much they extended it into a three-book series.

Fast forward to today: that three-book contract has just been extended to a six-book deal. Yes, six books. And the reason? My publisher reached out to let me know that based on my sales and page reads on Kindle Unlimited, I’m doing really well as a first-time “baby author.” In an industry where we rarely hear positive feedback—where critique, rejections, and endless “no’s” seem to echo louder than anything else—it was incredible to hear my publisher gush about how proud they are of me.

Let me be clear: this isn’t a Big 5 publisher. It’s a small press. But it’s a launching pad. It’s a place that believed in me, my stories, and my potential when the traditional path didn’t pan out as planned.

Here’s what I’ve learned and what I want to pass on to every writer out there:

✅ Keep an open mind. If querying isn’t yielding what you expect, don’t close the door on other publishing paths. Landing an agent doesn’t guarantee a book deal, but that doesn’t mean your stories aren’t worth telling.

✅ Even with an agent, you can be on sub for months and even years. Yes, some writers get huge book deals seemingly overnight. But that isn't common. It's more common to be on sub for a while. Many authors even have to shelve books that have "died on sub."

✅ Don’t dismiss small presses. These publishers are often passionate, hands-on, and invested in nurturing new voices. My small press gave my books a chance, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

✅ Rejection isn’t the end. Every “no” is a step closer to a “yes.” Those books I was told would “die on sub” are now thriving.

✅ Celebrate the wins. Even the small ones. Because in an industry like ours, every win is worth cherishing.

So, to everyone chasing the dream: keep going. The path might not look the way you imagined, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth walking.

The Serpent Series continues to grow, and I’m thrilled to share some updates:

Book 1: The Serpent’s Bridge will be just $1.99 from 12/20–12/27 as part of a BargainBooksy promo.

Book 2: The Serpent Woman is currently available for pre-order! For the month of November, you can get it for 25% off through Tertulia with code WOMAN or snag it for 50% off when you become a Tertulia member.

Book 3: Twilight of the Serpent is almost complete! I’m at 73k words and should finish drafting soon. The release is planned for April 2025.

Books 4, 5, and 6 are forthcoming, and I can’t wait to share more details about them as the series unfolds.

To my readers, thank you for believing in me, supporting my stories, and coming along for the ride. I’m beyond grateful to announce that my three-book contract has been extended to a six-book deal with my publisher. Here’s to more thrilling adventures ahead!

⭐️ Don’t give up. You never know when your breakthrough is just around the corner.⭐️

Embracing the Journey: The Resilience of Indie & Small Press Authors in a Big 5 World

Everyone dreams of landing a Big 5 deal with a seven-figure advance, seeing their book front and center in every store, and watching their stories reach a massive audience. That dream is something we all share as authors because we believe our words deserve the best possible platform. But sometimes, that path doesn’t unfold in the way we imagined.

I’m here to say: that’s okay.

When I started this journey, I had a vision—one that felt almost out of reach. I signed with a wonderful agent, I had all the hopes in the world, and I thought this was it. But after five years of trying and no book deal, I had to face a reality I hadn’t fully prepared for. My stories might never see the light of day with a Big 5 publisher. It stung. But I knew I had to dig deeper, reflect, and pivot.

Here’s the beauty of indie and small-press publishing: it can turn those “almost” stories into reality. I found a home for my work with a small press, Oliver-Heber, and since then, I’ve seen my books reach readers who truly get it, who connect with the themes and characters I poured myself into. There’s something deeply personal and rewarding about indie publishing—small presses don’t just take on any story; they take on stories they believe in.

I’ve learned that indie authors and small-press authors are the most resilient people I know. We’re flexible, we’re open-minded, and, most importantly, we’re ready with a Plan B when things don’t go as expected. That’s not giving up on the dream; it’s adapting to reality while still nurturing our vision. We might have to wear a dozen hats—from writing and editing to marketing and distribution—but we do it because we’re passionate about our stories and the readers who choose us.

So, if you’re on this journey and feeling the weight of “what if,” remember: a story can shine on any stage, as long as it’s shared. Whether you’re with a Big 5 publisher, a small press, or going it alone, every path has its rewards. Our stories deserve to be heard, and indie publishing is proof that there’s more than one way to get there. Embrace the journey, stay open-minded, and be ready to pivot if you need to. Sometimes, Plan B is where the real magic happens.

I'm here to support indie and small press authors because I know how much heart, resilience, and determination it takes to keep going when the journey doesn’t look like what we first envisioned.

If you're interested in seeing where my own journey has taken me, you can check out The Serpent Series on Amazon.

Expanding Horizons: How Indie Books and Multi-Genre Reading Fuel Creativity

Reading more indie books has truly opened my eyes to the wealth of talent that often goes unnoticed. As a multi-genre reader, I've discovered that immersing myself in different genres has not only expanded my horizons but has also given me new tools to refine and elevate my own writing.

Each genre offers its unique storytelling techniques, character development styles, and world-building strategies. When we’re open to exploring stories beyond our comfort zone, we allow ourselves to grow as both readers and writers. We become more versatile, empathetic, and creative, absorbing lessons that enrich our craft. Whether it's the suspense of a thriller, the emotional depth of literary fiction, or the imaginative wonder of fantasy, every book offers a learning experience that can fuel our own creativity.

The beauty of indie books, in particular, lies in their diversity and boldness. Indie authors often take risks with their narratives and character arcs, pushing boundaries in ways that might not always fit the traditional publishing mold. This freedom allows for unique voices and fresh perspectives, giving readers like us the chance to engage with stories that feel deeply personal, raw, and real.

I’ve learned so much from these talented authors—about storytelling, resilience, and the power of authentic voices. Opening ourselves to all genres isn't just about broadening our reading lists; it’s about embracing the richness of creativity in all its forms.