Plans of Writing

Written for https://lifeafter50forwomen.com/my-prompts-2/

I self-published my first book, ‘‘Sticks and Stones’’, when I was in my early forties. I paid a company, but the editing was substandard. Do I regret writing the book? No. Whatever the outcome, I am proud of what I achieved. My first character ‘‘Alison’’ and she could do what I failed to; tell her parents.

The next time I found Kindle Direct; no fee, but a lot of hard work. My first attempt wasn’t good enough. It was only when I found a new editor during lockdown that I understood that writing isn’t just about putting words on a page.

New chapters, additional characters, and her advice paid off. ‘‘It Won’t Happen Again’’ was born. My favourite review is when the reader told me she enjoyed the journey of my main character; from victim to survivor.

I have two books I am working on; Orvieto, and In The Dark. Still in the editing stage, not sure when they will be ready. Learning from past mistakes, I have learned to ensure that I am totally happy about my books before I get them printed.

This week I recorded my poem ‘‘Freedom’’. A special event at my local entertainment centre, which reveals the voices of local authors.

If I can do this, I know you can too.