S.Z. Estavillo's Blog, page 4
October 11, 2024
Birthday Reflections & Achieving A Lifelong Dream
Yesterday, as I celebrated my birthday, I couldn’t help but reflect on one of the biggest goals I’ve carried with me for so many years—getting published. Like many authors, I had a vision of how this would happen. I had dreams of being published by one of the Big 5, a goal that seemed both ambitious and within reach.
For five years, I had an agent and believed I was steadily moving toward that dream. I was convinced that my book would eventually land in the hands of a top publisher, and I pictured my name on a bestseller list. But things didn’t turn out the way I had hoped. After five long years of waiting, pitching, and hoping, I walked away with nothing—no book deals, no contracts. It was disheartening, to say the least. That period left me questioning everything, from my writing to my place in the industry.
It was incredibly disappointing. For years, I carried the idea that success meant landing a contract with a Big 5 publisher, and I had envisioned my career unfolding in a very specific way. When that didn’t happen, it was hard not to feel like I had fallen short of what I had worked so hard for. But then something important happened: I found a home with a small press. And it made me realize that success is not about comparison or the labels we attach to our achievements.
In the past, I thought not landing with a big publisher meant I wasn’t good enough or that my writing didn’t hold the value I believed it did. But the reality is so different from that narrow mindset. Working with a small press opened my eyes to the richness of gratitude, not just for getting published, but for the journey that brought me here. I learned to be thankful for every step, even the disappointments, because they led me to a place where I could grow.
Being published is a privilege in itself, and I’ve come to deeply appreciate where I am, even if it looks different from what I initially imagined. My small press has given me opportunities to connect with readers, to share my stories, and to continue doing what I love. This journey has taught me that success isn't defined by the publisher's name on the spine of a book, but by the passion, perseverance, and joy we find in the process.
As I look back on this milestone birthday, I feel a renewed sense of gratitude for where I am. It’s not about meeting every goal by a certain age or achieving success according to someone else's definition. It’s about continuing to try, continuing to believe in yourself, and finding joy in every step of the way—even the unexpected ones.
Here’s to celebrating the journey, and to all the stories still waiting to be told.
For five years, I had an agent and believed I was steadily moving toward that dream. I was convinced that my book would eventually land in the hands of a top publisher, and I pictured my name on a bestseller list. But things didn’t turn out the way I had hoped. After five long years of waiting, pitching, and hoping, I walked away with nothing—no book deals, no contracts. It was disheartening, to say the least. That period left me questioning everything, from my writing to my place in the industry.
It was incredibly disappointing. For years, I carried the idea that success meant landing a contract with a Big 5 publisher, and I had envisioned my career unfolding in a very specific way. When that didn’t happen, it was hard not to feel like I had fallen short of what I had worked so hard for. But then something important happened: I found a home with a small press. And it made me realize that success is not about comparison or the labels we attach to our achievements.
In the past, I thought not landing with a big publisher meant I wasn’t good enough or that my writing didn’t hold the value I believed it did. But the reality is so different from that narrow mindset. Working with a small press opened my eyes to the richness of gratitude, not just for getting published, but for the journey that brought me here. I learned to be thankful for every step, even the disappointments, because they led me to a place where I could grow.
Being published is a privilege in itself, and I’ve come to deeply appreciate where I am, even if it looks different from what I initially imagined. My small press has given me opportunities to connect with readers, to share my stories, and to continue doing what I love. This journey has taught me that success isn't defined by the publisher's name on the spine of a book, but by the passion, perseverance, and joy we find in the process.
As I look back on this milestone birthday, I feel a renewed sense of gratitude for where I am. It’s not about meeting every goal by a certain age or achieving success according to someone else's definition. It’s about continuing to try, continuing to believe in yourself, and finding joy in every step of the way—even the unexpected ones.
Here’s to celebrating the journey, and to all the stories still waiting to be told.
October 3, 2024
Why Are Morally Grey Female Characters Judged More Harshly?
Why are morally grey female characters judged more harshly than their male counterparts? A male antihero is often seen as ‘complex’ and ‘redeemable,’ celebrated for his flaws and depth. But when a woman exhibits the same traits, she’s labeled ‘unlikable’ or ‘villainous,’ and the narrative shifts to whether or not she deserves redemption at all.
This disparity is something I’ve explored deeply in my series, The Serpent Series, where my two lead characters—Detective Anaya Nazario and a female vigilante serial killer named Von Schlange—challenge readers to confront their perceptions of morality, justice, and what it means to be flawed but still worthy of redemption.
Book 1 of The Serpent Series, out today, introduces us to Detective Anaya Nazario, a seasoned detective whose life is unraveling as she battles personal demons. Anaya is a recovering alcoholic who is on the verge of relapsing, struggling to stay sober while dealing with the trauma of losing her father and the haunting memories that come with it. Readers often want heroines who are strong but not too broken, loving but not too distant—a delicate balance that Anaya doesn’t fit into. She pushes Special Agent Blake Huxley, her on-again, off-again love interest, away repeatedly, resisting his attempts to break down her walls.
The main case in The Serpent's Bridge is not your typical serial killer hunt. Anaya is fighting to keep the case open against LAPD’s wishes. The victims are unidentified undocumented immigrants—people with no voice, no advocates, and no one in power fighting for them. With pressure from the top to close what’s considered a ‘leadless case,’ Anaya’s passion for justice becomes her only anchor. But it’s this same relentless drive that makes her push people away, particularly Huxley, who’s struggling to find his place in her life.
Book 2, The Serpent Woman, takes the stakes even higher. Detective Nazario and Supervising Special Agent Blake Huxley are back, and their complicated dynamic takes on a new layer—a baby on the way. Yet they’re still not a couple. Instead, they’re stuck in this on-again, off-again situation that keeps both of them emotionally guarded and uncertain. It’s a messy entanglement, with neither fully willing to commit, and that makes their relationship even more volatile as they face their toughest case yet.
In The Serpent Woman, they’re on the hunt for Von Schlange, a vigilante serial killer targeting men who almost deserve it—abusers, predators, and violent offenders who managed to evade the justice system. This case forces Anaya and Huxley to confront not only the criminal mastermind Von Schlange (also known as ‘The Serpent Woman’) but also their own moral boundaries. Readers will find themselves questioning who they’re truly rooting for. Is Von Schlange the villain, or is she the hero society desperately needs? And more importantly, does Anaya empathize with her prey more than she’d like to admit?
One of the key elements I wanted to highlight in Book 2 was the evolution of Nazario and Huxley’s dynamic. There’s a B-story romance thread woven throughout, but I was careful not to let it overshadow the gritty detective thriller. Their relationship isn’t a typical romance, and that’s intentional. Their personal lives are as messy and unpredictable as the cases they work on, which is what makes them feel so real to me. I want readers to see that female characters don’t have to be defined by their relationships. Anaya is complex and flawed—she’s allowed to push back, to screw up, and to struggle without it making her less worthy of being the protagonist in her own story.
I often receive feedback from readers who expect Anaya to fall neatly into a romantic arc, softening her edges and making her more ‘lovable.’ But I refuse to dilute her character. Anaya is a fierce, morally ambiguous woman who’s passionate, messy, and unwilling to conform to anyone’s expectations. Her complexity is what makes her real and relatable. Why can’t a female character struggle with addiction, push people away, and still be compelling and redeemable?
On the flip side, we have Von Schlange, who’s as ruthless as she is tragic. Readers will love and hate her in equal measure. Her motivations are rooted in vengeance against men who have destroyed women’s lives. In a way, she’s a dark reflection of Anaya—taking the justice Anaya fights for into her own deadly hands. Writing Von Schlange was a way to explore what happens when society’s failures create monsters who believe they’re doing what’s right.
So why is it that we allow male antiheroes to break all the rules and still root for them, but hesitate to extend the same empathy and admiration to women? I believe it’s because society has long held different standards for women’s behavior. They’re expected to be nurturing, kind, and self-sacrificing, even when in positions of power. When a female character steps outside those lines, she’s judged more harshly.
With The Serpent Series, I wanted to challenge these stereotypes and create a space where morally grey women can exist without apology. Anaya and Von Schlange both walk a razor’s edge between right and wrong, yet they’re more than the sum of their mistakes. They’re complicated, contradictory, and unapologetically human.
So, the next time you find yourself reading about a flawed female character, ask yourself: would I feel differently if this were a man? And if the answer is yes, dig deeper. Because our characters, just like real women, deserve to be messy, complex, and imperfect—while still being worthy of our empathy and redemption.
This disparity is something I’ve explored deeply in my series, The Serpent Series, where my two lead characters—Detective Anaya Nazario and a female vigilante serial killer named Von Schlange—challenge readers to confront their perceptions of morality, justice, and what it means to be flawed but still worthy of redemption.
Book 1 of The Serpent Series, out today, introduces us to Detective Anaya Nazario, a seasoned detective whose life is unraveling as she battles personal demons. Anaya is a recovering alcoholic who is on the verge of relapsing, struggling to stay sober while dealing with the trauma of losing her father and the haunting memories that come with it. Readers often want heroines who are strong but not too broken, loving but not too distant—a delicate balance that Anaya doesn’t fit into. She pushes Special Agent Blake Huxley, her on-again, off-again love interest, away repeatedly, resisting his attempts to break down her walls.
The main case in The Serpent's Bridge is not your typical serial killer hunt. Anaya is fighting to keep the case open against LAPD’s wishes. The victims are unidentified undocumented immigrants—people with no voice, no advocates, and no one in power fighting for them. With pressure from the top to close what’s considered a ‘leadless case,’ Anaya’s passion for justice becomes her only anchor. But it’s this same relentless drive that makes her push people away, particularly Huxley, who’s struggling to find his place in her life.
Book 2, The Serpent Woman, takes the stakes even higher. Detective Nazario and Supervising Special Agent Blake Huxley are back, and their complicated dynamic takes on a new layer—a baby on the way. Yet they’re still not a couple. Instead, they’re stuck in this on-again, off-again situation that keeps both of them emotionally guarded and uncertain. It’s a messy entanglement, with neither fully willing to commit, and that makes their relationship even more volatile as they face their toughest case yet.
In The Serpent Woman, they’re on the hunt for Von Schlange, a vigilante serial killer targeting men who almost deserve it—abusers, predators, and violent offenders who managed to evade the justice system. This case forces Anaya and Huxley to confront not only the criminal mastermind Von Schlange (also known as ‘The Serpent Woman’) but also their own moral boundaries. Readers will find themselves questioning who they’re truly rooting for. Is Von Schlange the villain, or is she the hero society desperately needs? And more importantly, does Anaya empathize with her prey more than she’d like to admit?
One of the key elements I wanted to highlight in Book 2 was the evolution of Nazario and Huxley’s dynamic. There’s a B-story romance thread woven throughout, but I was careful not to let it overshadow the gritty detective thriller. Their relationship isn’t a typical romance, and that’s intentional. Their personal lives are as messy and unpredictable as the cases they work on, which is what makes them feel so real to me. I want readers to see that female characters don’t have to be defined by their relationships. Anaya is complex and flawed—she’s allowed to push back, to screw up, and to struggle without it making her less worthy of being the protagonist in her own story.
I often receive feedback from readers who expect Anaya to fall neatly into a romantic arc, softening her edges and making her more ‘lovable.’ But I refuse to dilute her character. Anaya is a fierce, morally ambiguous woman who’s passionate, messy, and unwilling to conform to anyone’s expectations. Her complexity is what makes her real and relatable. Why can’t a female character struggle with addiction, push people away, and still be compelling and redeemable?
On the flip side, we have Von Schlange, who’s as ruthless as she is tragic. Readers will love and hate her in equal measure. Her motivations are rooted in vengeance against men who have destroyed women’s lives. In a way, she’s a dark reflection of Anaya—taking the justice Anaya fights for into her own deadly hands. Writing Von Schlange was a way to explore what happens when society’s failures create monsters who believe they’re doing what’s right.
So why is it that we allow male antiheroes to break all the rules and still root for them, but hesitate to extend the same empathy and admiration to women? I believe it’s because society has long held different standards for women’s behavior. They’re expected to be nurturing, kind, and self-sacrificing, even when in positions of power. When a female character steps outside those lines, she’s judged more harshly.
With The Serpent Series, I wanted to challenge these stereotypes and create a space where morally grey women can exist without apology. Anaya and Von Schlange both walk a razor’s edge between right and wrong, yet they’re more than the sum of their mistakes. They’re complicated, contradictory, and unapologetically human.
So, the next time you find yourself reading about a flawed female character, ask yourself: would I feel differently if this were a man? And if the answer is yes, dig deeper. Because our characters, just like real women, deserve to be messy, complex, and imperfect—while still being worthy of our empathy and redemption.
September 30, 2024
The Power of Presence: Reflections on Friendship & My First Book Signing at Vroman’s
Yesterday was my book signing for my debut thriller detective novel,
The Serpent's Bridge,
at Vromans Bookstore in Pasadena. It's the largest and oldest indie bookstore in California. I was super nervous and anxious. With clinical anxiety, it was tough, but I made it through.
I did a reading and discussion. It was really lovely meeting two other authors—each of us had 15-20 minutes to share. I spoke for about 10 minutes and read for 5, which felt perfect!
I sold 7 books and was so happy that everyone who said they’d show up actually did—including my good friend I've known for 16 years. She flew all the way from North Carolina! I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who showed up, some driving over an hour to get to the book signing.
It’s moments like these when you realize that friendship isn’t just about the good times or shared laughter—it’s about showing up when it truly counts. The ones who make the effort to be there, who set everything aside to support you in your most critical moments, are telling you everything you need to know about what friendship really means.
It’s not always about who you expect, but who shows up when the stakes are high, proving that presence is more powerful than promises.
I did a reading and discussion. It was really lovely meeting two other authors—each of us had 15-20 minutes to share. I spoke for about 10 minutes and read for 5, which felt perfect!
I sold 7 books and was so happy that everyone who said they’d show up actually did—including my good friend I've known for 16 years. She flew all the way from North Carolina! I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who showed up, some driving over an hour to get to the book signing.
It’s moments like these when you realize that friendship isn’t just about the good times or shared laughter—it’s about showing up when it truly counts. The ones who make the effort to be there, who set everything aside to support you in your most critical moments, are telling you everything you need to know about what friendship really means.
It’s not always about who you expect, but who shows up when the stakes are high, proving that presence is more powerful than promises.
September 24, 2024
Why Morally Grey Characters Are the Most Fun to Write
Writing morally grey characters has always been one of my favorite things to do. There’s just so much you can explore when a character lives in that moral ambiguity. You can dive into their darker side, exploring thoughts and actions that maybe you’d never entertain in real life, like revenge or anger. But it’s more than just tapping into these raw emotions. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about it, especially for those of us who have lived through trauma.
When you’re writing a character that walks that fine line between right and wrong, it opens up this incredible space for emotional exploration and release. It allows you to put your own experiences—sometimes painful, sometimes complex—into the story in a way that feels cathartic. I’ve personally found that crafting morally grey characters is one of the best ways to heal through writing. It’s an outlet, a safe space to conquer inner demons without causing harm or bringing real-world consequences.
I did this with The Serpent Woman, book two in The Serpent series, which is now available for pre-order in both paperback and digital formats. Writing this book was a deeply healing experience for me, as it allowed me to confront a lot of past traumas that had haunted me for years. Creating characters like Von Schlang, the female serial killer in the story, offered me a way to release the pain of those experiences. Von Schlange isn't just a villain; she’s a symbol of revenge, of darkness, of everything that can spiral from unchecked pain. But in writing her, I wasn’t just writing a serial killer—I was writing a way to exorcise painful memories. Through her story, I could metaphorically kill off those experiences and finally let go.
Exorcising trauma through morally grey characters can be incredibly cathartic. For authors who have lived through personal trauma of their own, writing these characters offers a profound way to heal. Writing becomes a therapeutic process, helping us release buried emotions and confront past pain in a controlled, safe environment. It's an outlet to exorcise inner demons without any real-world consequences.
Here’s why writing morally grey characters like Von Schlang is so much fun, beyond the healing and catharsis:
Unpredictability: With morally grey characters, anything can happen. They’re not bound by the strict moral codes that define traditional heroes, nor do they indulge in evil for the sake of it like classic villains. Their choices are complex, often driven by survival, desire, or an internal code of ethics that might only make sense to them.
Relatable Flaws: We love characters that are deeply flawed because they remind us of ourselves. Morally grey characters make questionable decisions, but they’re not evil—they’re human. They stumble, they break rules, and they sometimes hurt others in pursuit of what they think is right. That makes them relatable and, ultimately, far more compelling.
Internal Conflict and Mental Health: These characters are often at war with themselves, and there’s something exhilarating about exploring that. Their battles with guilt, self-doubt, and justifications can mirror the mental health struggles many of us face. Writing about this internal turmoil offers therapeutic benefits by allowing you to pour your own emotional struggles into the narrative. Will they rise to the occasion or give in to darker impulses? It keeps readers guessing, and it keeps us writers guessing, too.
Therapeutic Growth and Healing: One of the best parts of writing morally grey characters is witnessing their growth—or lack of it. These characters can either find redemption or dive deeper into their flaws. Their journey reflects the therapeutic process, where growth is neither linear nor predictable. For writers like myself, this journey can be a form of emotional release. It mirrors how we process our own trauma: slowly, unpredictably, but with a sense of purpose. Writing them allows us to explore unresolved feelings in a way that’s productive and safe.
Unexpected Creative Freedom: Writing morally grey characters gives you endless creative freedom. They’re unpredictable, flawed, and emotionally complex, offering rich material for storytelling. Watching them grapple with their own morality over the course of a series (especially in Book 2 😉) gives you the space to explore new layers of their personality—and of your own.
So here’s a little teaser for Book 2: expect more moral dilemmas, questionable alliances, and characters who continue to navigate the fine line between good and evil. As the stakes get higher, choices become even more complex, testing not only their morality but their very survival in a world where right and wrong aren’t always clear.
Morally grey characters are a mirror—sometimes of the worst parts of us, but also of our struggles, our resilience, and our capacity to heal. Writing has the power to be transformative. It’s helped me release so much of what I used to carry, and I hope that The Serpent Woman offers the same catharsis to readers who pick it up.
If you’ve ever gone through something traumatic, I encourage you to try writing characters like these. Use them to express things you’ve buried deep within. You might be surprised by just how much it helps you process, release, and ultimately heal. ❤️🩹
When you’re writing a character that walks that fine line between right and wrong, it opens up this incredible space for emotional exploration and release. It allows you to put your own experiences—sometimes painful, sometimes complex—into the story in a way that feels cathartic. I’ve personally found that crafting morally grey characters is one of the best ways to heal through writing. It’s an outlet, a safe space to conquer inner demons without causing harm or bringing real-world consequences.
I did this with The Serpent Woman, book two in The Serpent series, which is now available for pre-order in both paperback and digital formats. Writing this book was a deeply healing experience for me, as it allowed me to confront a lot of past traumas that had haunted me for years. Creating characters like Von Schlang, the female serial killer in the story, offered me a way to release the pain of those experiences. Von Schlange isn't just a villain; she’s a symbol of revenge, of darkness, of everything that can spiral from unchecked pain. But in writing her, I wasn’t just writing a serial killer—I was writing a way to exorcise painful memories. Through her story, I could metaphorically kill off those experiences and finally let go.
Exorcising trauma through morally grey characters can be incredibly cathartic. For authors who have lived through personal trauma of their own, writing these characters offers a profound way to heal. Writing becomes a therapeutic process, helping us release buried emotions and confront past pain in a controlled, safe environment. It's an outlet to exorcise inner demons without any real-world consequences.
Here’s why writing morally grey characters like Von Schlang is so much fun, beyond the healing and catharsis:
Unpredictability: With morally grey characters, anything can happen. They’re not bound by the strict moral codes that define traditional heroes, nor do they indulge in evil for the sake of it like classic villains. Their choices are complex, often driven by survival, desire, or an internal code of ethics that might only make sense to them.
Relatable Flaws: We love characters that are deeply flawed because they remind us of ourselves. Morally grey characters make questionable decisions, but they’re not evil—they’re human. They stumble, they break rules, and they sometimes hurt others in pursuit of what they think is right. That makes them relatable and, ultimately, far more compelling.
Internal Conflict and Mental Health: These characters are often at war with themselves, and there’s something exhilarating about exploring that. Their battles with guilt, self-doubt, and justifications can mirror the mental health struggles many of us face. Writing about this internal turmoil offers therapeutic benefits by allowing you to pour your own emotional struggles into the narrative. Will they rise to the occasion or give in to darker impulses? It keeps readers guessing, and it keeps us writers guessing, too.
Therapeutic Growth and Healing: One of the best parts of writing morally grey characters is witnessing their growth—or lack of it. These characters can either find redemption or dive deeper into their flaws. Their journey reflects the therapeutic process, where growth is neither linear nor predictable. For writers like myself, this journey can be a form of emotional release. It mirrors how we process our own trauma: slowly, unpredictably, but with a sense of purpose. Writing them allows us to explore unresolved feelings in a way that’s productive and safe.
Unexpected Creative Freedom: Writing morally grey characters gives you endless creative freedom. They’re unpredictable, flawed, and emotionally complex, offering rich material for storytelling. Watching them grapple with their own morality over the course of a series (especially in Book 2 😉) gives you the space to explore new layers of their personality—and of your own.
So here’s a little teaser for Book 2: expect more moral dilemmas, questionable alliances, and characters who continue to navigate the fine line between good and evil. As the stakes get higher, choices become even more complex, testing not only their morality but their very survival in a world where right and wrong aren’t always clear.
Morally grey characters are a mirror—sometimes of the worst parts of us, but also of our struggles, our resilience, and our capacity to heal. Writing has the power to be transformative. It’s helped me release so much of what I used to carry, and I hope that The Serpent Woman offers the same catharsis to readers who pick it up.
If you’ve ever gone through something traumatic, I encourage you to try writing characters like these. Use them to express things you’ve buried deep within. You might be surprised by just how much it helps you process, release, and ultimately heal. ❤️🩹
September 17, 2024
Why Less is More: The Benefits of Taking Breaks from Social Media
In a world where social media platforms constantly encourage us to post every day, it’s important to remember that sometimes, taking a step back is just as valuable. Not posting every day can actually have its own benefits, both for your content and your well-being.
Here are some reasons why it’s okay to skip a day (or two) on social media:
• Give your followers time to catch up: When you post less frequently, it allows your audience to engage with your existing content instead of getting lost in a sea of new posts. People can take their time interacting with what you’ve already shared, leading to more meaningful engagement.
• Avoid spamming your audience: Posting every day can sometimes overwhelm your followers. By reducing the number of posts, you prevent your timeline from feeling like it’s cluttered with constant updates, and your posts can have more impact.
• Create a sense of anticipation: When you’re not constantly in your audience’s feed, they may begin to miss your presence. This anticipation can make your posts feel more special when they do appear, leading to more attention and interest.
• Minimize “ask fatigue”: Constantly promoting your book or products can feel repetitive or spammy to your audience. Posting less frequently allows you to balance promotion with other engaging content, ensuring you’re not always in “sales mode.”
• Support your mental health: The pressure to churn out content daily can be exhausting. Taking breaks gives you time to breathe, reduce burnout, and find joy in creating again.
• Reconnect with life outside of the screen: Social media breaks provide the space to spend quality time with family, connect with nature, and focus on projects or passions that matter to you. It’s a great way to get inspired and refresh your mind.
There’s no one-size-fits-all rule. While daily posting works for some, stepping back can be equally powerful in allowing you to engage meaningfully, maintain your well-being, and give your audience a chance to miss you. It’s okay to not always be online—life exists beyond the screen too.
Here are some reasons why it’s okay to skip a day (or two) on social media:
• Give your followers time to catch up: When you post less frequently, it allows your audience to engage with your existing content instead of getting lost in a sea of new posts. People can take their time interacting with what you’ve already shared, leading to more meaningful engagement.
• Avoid spamming your audience: Posting every day can sometimes overwhelm your followers. By reducing the number of posts, you prevent your timeline from feeling like it’s cluttered with constant updates, and your posts can have more impact.
• Create a sense of anticipation: When you’re not constantly in your audience’s feed, they may begin to miss your presence. This anticipation can make your posts feel more special when they do appear, leading to more attention and interest.
• Minimize “ask fatigue”: Constantly promoting your book or products can feel repetitive or spammy to your audience. Posting less frequently allows you to balance promotion with other engaging content, ensuring you’re not always in “sales mode.”
• Support your mental health: The pressure to churn out content daily can be exhausting. Taking breaks gives you time to breathe, reduce burnout, and find joy in creating again.
• Reconnect with life outside of the screen: Social media breaks provide the space to spend quality time with family, connect with nature, and focus on projects or passions that matter to you. It’s a great way to get inspired and refresh your mind.
There’s no one-size-fits-all rule. While daily posting works for some, stepping back can be equally powerful in allowing you to engage meaningfully, maintain your well-being, and give your audience a chance to miss you. It’s okay to not always be online—life exists beyond the screen too.
September 9, 2024
Marketing Your Book: Strategies and Tips
Marketing your book can be a daunting task, even for someone like me with over 10 years of experience in the field. It requires a significant amount of effort, time, and consistency to make sure your book reaches the right audience. However, with the right strategies and dedication, you can build momentum and achieve success. Here are some key strategies to help you effectively market your book:
Consistency is Key
• Consistent Posting Across Social Media: One of the most important aspects of book marketing is staying active on social media. Regular posting helps keep your book and brand in front of potential readers. Share updates, teasers, behind-the-scenes content, and engage with your followers to build a loyal audience.
Plan Ahead
• Scheduling Your Social Media Out: To maintain a steady presence online, it’s helpful to schedule your posts in advance. Tools like Buffer, Hootsuite, and Later can help you plan your content calendar, ensuring you have consistent messaging across all platforms without overwhelming yourself.
Leverage Influencer Relationships
• Connecting with Influencers: Building relationships with bookish influencers can significantly boost your book’s visibility. Influencers have dedicated followers who trust their recommendations, making them valuable partners in your marketing efforts.
• Offering Giveaways to Interested Influencers: Incentivize influencers to share your book by offering them exclusive giveaways. These could be physical items like signed copies, or promotional goodies like pens, mouse pads, tote bags, coffee mugs, and bookmarks. Creating these items through services like Vistaprint is effective, but keep in mind that costs can add up, so choose your recipients wisely.
Building Trust Takes Time
When reaching out to influencers, especially within the bookish community, it’s important to understand that responses might not always be immediate. Building trust takes time. Here are some strategies to foster these relationships:
• Engage with Their Content: Before approaching influencers, take time to engage with their posts—like, comment, and share. Showing genuine interest in their content helps you build rapport.
• Network and Build Relationships: Attend online book events, participate in discussions, and network within the community. Over time, this engagement can make influencers more receptive to your outreach.
• Start Small: Instead of focusing solely on influencers with massive followings, consider working with micro-influencers. They often have highly engaged audiences and can be just as effective, if not more so, in spreading the word about your book.
Giveaways and Promotional Items
Offering promotional items can be a great way to create buzz around your book, but it’s essential to be strategic:
• Choose Giveaways Wisely: While giveaways can generate excitement, they can also be costly. Assess your budget and decide which items will have the most impact. Personalized items like bookmarks or tote bags are popular, but more substantial gifts like coffee mugs should be reserved for key influencers or loyal fans.
Marketing your book is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires patience, persistence, and a well-thought-out strategy. By staying consistent, planning your efforts, and building meaningful relationships with influencers, you can effectively promote your book and reach your target audience.
Note: Even with the most effective marketing strategy, there will be days, weeks, or even months when sales dip. This is completely normal. The key is to stay persistent—keep leveraging organic and paid ads, writing engaging blog posts, and collaborating with fellow readers and authors to promote each other's books. If you're interested, I'm always open to collaborating with fellow authors.
Consistency is Key
• Consistent Posting Across Social Media: One of the most important aspects of book marketing is staying active on social media. Regular posting helps keep your book and brand in front of potential readers. Share updates, teasers, behind-the-scenes content, and engage with your followers to build a loyal audience.
Plan Ahead
• Scheduling Your Social Media Out: To maintain a steady presence online, it’s helpful to schedule your posts in advance. Tools like Buffer, Hootsuite, and Later can help you plan your content calendar, ensuring you have consistent messaging across all platforms without overwhelming yourself.
Leverage Influencer Relationships
• Connecting with Influencers: Building relationships with bookish influencers can significantly boost your book’s visibility. Influencers have dedicated followers who trust their recommendations, making them valuable partners in your marketing efforts.
• Offering Giveaways to Interested Influencers: Incentivize influencers to share your book by offering them exclusive giveaways. These could be physical items like signed copies, or promotional goodies like pens, mouse pads, tote bags, coffee mugs, and bookmarks. Creating these items through services like Vistaprint is effective, but keep in mind that costs can add up, so choose your recipients wisely.
Building Trust Takes Time
When reaching out to influencers, especially within the bookish community, it’s important to understand that responses might not always be immediate. Building trust takes time. Here are some strategies to foster these relationships:
• Engage with Their Content: Before approaching influencers, take time to engage with their posts—like, comment, and share. Showing genuine interest in their content helps you build rapport.
• Network and Build Relationships: Attend online book events, participate in discussions, and network within the community. Over time, this engagement can make influencers more receptive to your outreach.
• Start Small: Instead of focusing solely on influencers with massive followings, consider working with micro-influencers. They often have highly engaged audiences and can be just as effective, if not more so, in spreading the word about your book.
Giveaways and Promotional Items
Offering promotional items can be a great way to create buzz around your book, but it’s essential to be strategic:
• Choose Giveaways Wisely: While giveaways can generate excitement, they can also be costly. Assess your budget and decide which items will have the most impact. Personalized items like bookmarks or tote bags are popular, but more substantial gifts like coffee mugs should be reserved for key influencers or loyal fans.
Marketing your book is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires patience, persistence, and a well-thought-out strategy. By staying consistent, planning your efforts, and building meaningful relationships with influencers, you can effectively promote your book and reach your target audience.
Note: Even with the most effective marketing strategy, there will be days, weeks, or even months when sales dip. This is completely normal. The key is to stay persistent—keep leveraging organic and paid ads, writing engaging blog posts, and collaborating with fellow readers and authors to promote each other's books. If you're interested, I'm always open to collaborating with fellow authors.
September 7, 2024
Authors Can't Please Every Reader
When I first wrote The Serpent Bridge, one of my biggest concerns was that it started off too fast. However, that ended up being why some of my readers enjoyed it.
The action kicks in right away, and the momentum never really lets up. I’ve had a lot of readers tell me that the pacing and plot are executed well, gripping them from the start, making it a fast read. But it’s always surprising how each reader interprets a book differently.
Just when you think your book is packed with action and moves quickly, someone might claim it’s not fast enough. You wonder, "How fast can you possibly make a book?" But here's the thing—if 90% of people say the book is fast-paced, and one person claims it’s too slow or that the plot isn’t up to par, it comes down to interpretation.
When the majority loves the pacing, don’t let one or two naysayer’s opinion get to you. There will always be critics—sometimes, people rate a book low for no real reason. This has become a recent trend among debut authors. Sadly, there are folks with too much time on their hands going around review-bombing debut authors. The key is to let it roll off your back. You can’t please every reader, and trying to will only dilute your vision and weaken the heart of the story.
There are plenty of stories that ebb and flow. Some are slow burns. Some are fast. Some are a mix of both. Authors must keep in mind that reading is highly subjective. If we constantly reshape our story to satisfy everyone, we end up satisfying no one.
The Bottom Line: Write the book the way you see it. Let the naysayers talk; your vision is yours to honor, no matter what they say.
The action kicks in right away, and the momentum never really lets up. I’ve had a lot of readers tell me that the pacing and plot are executed well, gripping them from the start, making it a fast read. But it’s always surprising how each reader interprets a book differently.
Just when you think your book is packed with action and moves quickly, someone might claim it’s not fast enough. You wonder, "How fast can you possibly make a book?" But here's the thing—if 90% of people say the book is fast-paced, and one person claims it’s too slow or that the plot isn’t up to par, it comes down to interpretation.
When the majority loves the pacing, don’t let one or two naysayer’s opinion get to you. There will always be critics—sometimes, people rate a book low for no real reason. This has become a recent trend among debut authors. Sadly, there are folks with too much time on their hands going around review-bombing debut authors. The key is to let it roll off your back. You can’t please every reader, and trying to will only dilute your vision and weaken the heart of the story.
There are plenty of stories that ebb and flow. Some are slow burns. Some are fast. Some are a mix of both. Authors must keep in mind that reading is highly subjective. If we constantly reshape our story to satisfy everyone, we end up satisfying no one.
The Bottom Line: Write the book the way you see it. Let the naysayers talk; your vision is yours to honor, no matter what they say.
September 3, 2024
Scheduling Non-Writing Days
This Labor Day weekend, I made a conscious choice—I didn’t write. Instead, I spent time with my family. My three-year-old son, who was a preemie at birth, has always needed a little extra care, and this weekend, he needed me more than usual. So, I chose to be fully present for him.
My nine-year-old daughter helps balance things out. She’s incredible and often steps in to lend a hand, but she has her own needs too. It’s a delicate dance, meeting everyone’s needs, including my own. It’s easy to feel guilty about stepping away from writing, especially when I’m so driven to create. But sometimes, life pulls us in directions that are just as important, if not more so.
Being there for my kids, meeting their needs, and simply enjoying those everyday moments reminded me of something crucial: it’s okay to pause. In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s necessary. We spend so much time plugged into our laptops and phones, trying to keep up with the pace of life. But when we unplug, when we step away from the screens, that’s when we truly experience life to the fullest.
After taking this break, I finally returned to my work in progress, and I felt rejuvenated. With fresh eyes, I could see my story clearly again, without the fatigue that had clouded my vision before. I found that I could move forward without the creative blocks that had been holding me back. Often, writer’s block sneaks in when we overdo it or force the process. We don’t always realize that sometimes the best thing we can do is not write. It’s in those pauses, those moments when we step away, that we experience life—and with it, the inspiration we need to fuel our stories.
Now, I’m excited to dive back into my work in progress with fresh eyes—eyes that aren’t weighed down by fatigue or bogged down by being drained. I can see my story with a new perspective, free from the burnout that comes from burning the candle at both ends. Burnout often sneaks in when we push ourselves too hard, but when we actually schedule time to relax, we’re able to return to our manuscripts with renewed energy and clarity.
Today, after taking time to unwind, I feel revitalized and ready to revisit my work in progress. I’m bringing a whole new perspective and a fresh burst of creativity to my writing. I’m looking forward to what’s ahead, knowing that this pause has only made me stronger and more prepared to tell the stories that matter.
My nine-year-old daughter helps balance things out. She’s incredible and often steps in to lend a hand, but she has her own needs too. It’s a delicate dance, meeting everyone’s needs, including my own. It’s easy to feel guilty about stepping away from writing, especially when I’m so driven to create. But sometimes, life pulls us in directions that are just as important, if not more so.
Being there for my kids, meeting their needs, and simply enjoying those everyday moments reminded me of something crucial: it’s okay to pause. In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s necessary. We spend so much time plugged into our laptops and phones, trying to keep up with the pace of life. But when we unplug, when we step away from the screens, that’s when we truly experience life to the fullest.
After taking this break, I finally returned to my work in progress, and I felt rejuvenated. With fresh eyes, I could see my story clearly again, without the fatigue that had clouded my vision before. I found that I could move forward without the creative blocks that had been holding me back. Often, writer’s block sneaks in when we overdo it or force the process. We don’t always realize that sometimes the best thing we can do is not write. It’s in those pauses, those moments when we step away, that we experience life—and with it, the inspiration we need to fuel our stories.
Now, I’m excited to dive back into my work in progress with fresh eyes—eyes that aren’t weighed down by fatigue or bogged down by being drained. I can see my story with a new perspective, free from the burnout that comes from burning the candle at both ends. Burnout often sneaks in when we push ourselves too hard, but when we actually schedule time to relax, we’re able to return to our manuscripts with renewed energy and clarity.
Today, after taking time to unwind, I feel revitalized and ready to revisit my work in progress. I’m bringing a whole new perspective and a fresh burst of creativity to my writing. I’m looking forward to what’s ahead, knowing that this pause has only made me stronger and more prepared to tell the stories that matter.
August 21, 2024
The Importance of Supportive Author Friends
I love having supportive author friends who truly understand the struggle. Today, a friend reached out to me—not through a text, but by calling me the old-fashioned way. She was bubbling with excitement about my book release. When I opened up to her about feeling anxious and even a bit depressed, she understood immediately. Being an indie author, she knows how it feels to be swept up in the intense mix of emotions of releasing a book.
She reminded me that it's tough to put ourselves out there. We're a creative and sensitive bunch, pouring our hearts into our work. We yearn for people to be as excited about our books as we are without feeling like we're standing in a corner begging people to buy our Girl Scout cookies.
Selling books taps into the left-brain part of the business, and it can often feel daunting. After sending out my first promotional email, she pointed out that I came across as too apologetic. It was a relief to hear her say that.
I didn't realize how I sounded, almost like I said, "You don't have to buy my book if you don't want to," or "It's okay if you don't want to help promote my book." Her reminder that I'm good enough was refreshing, and it helped me see that feeling down after all the effort we've put into our books, from concept to completion, is perfectly normal.
With my first book release, a mix of anxiety and depression has set in. My husband often tells me I'm too hard on myself, and he's right. But leaning on friends who remind you that you're not alone and that it's okay to feel what you're feeling is essential.
We don't always need a million people to reassure us; sometimes, it takes only one person who truly understands.
She reminded me that it's tough to put ourselves out there. We're a creative and sensitive bunch, pouring our hearts into our work. We yearn for people to be as excited about our books as we are without feeling like we're standing in a corner begging people to buy our Girl Scout cookies.
Selling books taps into the left-brain part of the business, and it can often feel daunting. After sending out my first promotional email, she pointed out that I came across as too apologetic. It was a relief to hear her say that.
I didn't realize how I sounded, almost like I said, "You don't have to buy my book if you don't want to," or "It's okay if you don't want to help promote my book." Her reminder that I'm good enough was refreshing, and it helped me see that feeling down after all the effort we've put into our books, from concept to completion, is perfectly normal.
With my first book release, a mix of anxiety and depression has set in. My husband often tells me I'm too hard on myself, and he's right. But leaning on friends who remind you that you're not alone and that it's okay to feel what you're feeling is essential.
We don't always need a million people to reassure us; sometimes, it takes only one person who truly understands.
August 1, 2024
Why We Shouldn't Write To A Trend
As writers, we should always stay true to our vision, regardless of current trends or what decision-makers say. It’s easy for industry insiders to dismiss unique stories simply because they don’t align with what’s popular at the moment. Many great works get overlooked at the pitch level alone, without anyone ever reading a single page.
I’ve experienced this firsthand. Sometimes, the gatekeepers just aren’t looking for what we have to offer. But that shouldn’t deter us from writing the stories we envision. If we all chased trends, we’d end up with nothing but recycled material, lacking originality and depth.
A powerful example of this is the success story of “Squid Game.” Written by Hwang Dong-hyuk in 2009, the script faced nearly a decade of rejection from major production companies. They couldn’t see the potential in his unique vision, particularly as a BIPOC creator. This resonates with me as a biracial author, hearing similar comments like “Our readers aren’t interested in stories like that” or “This doesn’t fit our list.” Hwang Dong-hyuk faced such dismissals time and again.
It wasn’t until 2019 that Netflix decided to take a chance on “Squid Game,” and the rest is history. Although it’s a TV show and not a novel, the rejection journey resonates with many creative professionals, whether screenwriters or authors. Hwang Dong-hyuk’s perseverance is a testament to the importance of sticking to your creative vision despite the odds.
For those in the #WritingCommunity participating in online pitch events or trying to think of your next book idea, remember not to be discouraged by subjective biases. Success on these platforms doesn’t always correlate with the quality of your pitch or writing. Many factors are at play, including the bandwagon effect and the current market landscape.
Embrace rejection as a part of your journey, using it to fuel your determination. Just like “Squid Game,” your success could be just around the corner, waiting for the right opportunity to shine.
I’ve experienced this firsthand. Sometimes, the gatekeepers just aren’t looking for what we have to offer. But that shouldn’t deter us from writing the stories we envision. If we all chased trends, we’d end up with nothing but recycled material, lacking originality and depth.
A powerful example of this is the success story of “Squid Game.” Written by Hwang Dong-hyuk in 2009, the script faced nearly a decade of rejection from major production companies. They couldn’t see the potential in his unique vision, particularly as a BIPOC creator. This resonates with me as a biracial author, hearing similar comments like “Our readers aren’t interested in stories like that” or “This doesn’t fit our list.” Hwang Dong-hyuk faced such dismissals time and again.
It wasn’t until 2019 that Netflix decided to take a chance on “Squid Game,” and the rest is history. Although it’s a TV show and not a novel, the rejection journey resonates with many creative professionals, whether screenwriters or authors. Hwang Dong-hyuk’s perseverance is a testament to the importance of sticking to your creative vision despite the odds.
For those in the #WritingCommunity participating in online pitch events or trying to think of your next book idea, remember not to be discouraged by subjective biases. Success on these platforms doesn’t always correlate with the quality of your pitch or writing. Many factors are at play, including the bandwagon effect and the current market landscape.
Embrace rejection as a part of your journey, using it to fuel your determination. Just like “Squid Game,” your success could be just around the corner, waiting for the right opportunity to shine.
