Irina Semikop's Blog - Posts Tagged "writing-journey"

My emotions didn’t survive the day – I had to take a walk in the woods just to breathe a little 🌿

So many of you have been writing to me lately – on Facebook, TikTok, even by email, and I’m honestly amazed. I take criticism calmly (trust me, after my internship at the prosecutor’s office it’s pretty hard to break me 😂). But here’s the truth: I struggle much more with your praise. Part of me still doesn’t quite believe it.

But you keep sending me such kind messages, and maybe it’s time I admit this book really does resonate with many of you. Of course, not with everyone (and that’s perfectly normal!), but still, it means the world to me.

And now to the actual point of this post (because clearly I talk as much as I write 😅): I got my very first author copies today! And this cover… honestly, I’m in love. Soon I’ll show you the back as well – it’s something unusual, and yes, the whole concept was my idea. For once, I’ll allow myself to say: I’m proud✨

It’s been one week since Voluntary Pain stepped into the world, and it already feels like a small lifetime. In seven days I’ve seen a little bit of everything: the book reached #2 in Amazon’s Domestic Thrillers, then slipped, then climbed again. Turns out, Amazon sales are a moving ocean – beautiful, unpredictable, and not exactly easy to navigate.

What I learned (or, rather, confirmed): being an indie author is a brave, complicated marathon. Getting a book in front of readers without a publisher’s machinery takes time, resources, and a lot of stubborn love. You can have a product you’re truly proud of – and still, the path is long. That’s okay. Some roads are worth walking precisely because they’re not simple.

I’m grateful for every message, every share, every “I couldn’t put it down.” You made this first week unforgettable. If you’ve already read the book, a short rating or a few lines here on Goodreads means more than you know. And if you’re just discovering it now – welcome. I hope this story finds you at the right moment.

Here’s to patience, to craft, and to the readers who make it all possible. I’m staying on this road. Thank you for walking it with me. 🤎

This morning I opened Amazon, blinked twice… and smiled for real.
Voluntary Pain hit #1 Top New Release in its category. A week ago I wrote about the ups and downs of being an indie author; seeing this badge after all those waves feels a little unreal.

Thank you for every message, share, and rating. You made this happen.
If you’ve read the book, a short review here on Goodreads helps more than you can imagine.
And if you’re just discovering it now – welcome. I hope it finds you at the right moment. 🤎