Writing and Self-Publishing My First Novel

I am no expert on writing, but I have always enjoyed it, and I have been told that I am a "good writer". If I can write without a professor telling me what to write or how to write it, I like writing more. I have learned many writing techniques from teachers through instruction and from authors by reading their books.

When I am free to write what I feel or what is on my mind, I feel the happiest.

As a child, I kept a journal, and I did that into my young adult years. I'm not sure why I quit. It just became less of a practice and eventually faded. When I kept a journal, it was often used as a form of self-therapy to deal with whatever emotional growth I was dealing with at the time. To be honest, I'm not sure I would want anyone to read an old diary. It was something just between God and me.

When I began my college education, from a Bachelor's to a Doctorate, I learned to research and write scholarly work. I started getting good grades, and I not only began to like researching and writing; I learned it was a way to build knowledge and grow on my own.

I began writing my first self-published novel, For the Love of Gracie, when I had to say goodbye to my best friend, my dog of 15 years. I actually started the book a few months before I had to "put her down." I finished the book after she was gone and I was grieving her loss. It took time from start to finish. I finally had to put Gracie and the book to rest. It helped me remember my Gracie and also heal my heart.

When others have read short pieces I have written, they've told me they can easily visualize my words and emotions. I feel I write elementary. I don't try to use big words. I write from my heart. When I am passionate about a topic, it is easy to write.

In the age of AI, it can be hard to tell when AI is used. I think AI is a powerful tool for helping someone master their writing skills and activate critical thinking. I don't want AI to replace my writing or my thoughts. I use AI for basic editing and suggestions. I avoid using it to generate writing. When using AI, you must read it critically. AI doesn't replace the human mind and spirit, and I sure don't want it to replace mine.

As I wrote, For the Love of Gracie, I wanted it to be creative. The book was my first attempt at creative and fictional writing.

After completing the book's first manuscript, I wanted to publish it, but I had no idea how. As I do best, I researched. I discovered many publishers would gladly self-publish the book for a (not-so-low price). Since I was new to writing novels and didn't have the funds to throw away, I decided not to go that route. I thought I could spend all that money, and it wouldn't guarantee I'd sell the book. In reality, I probably would spend more than I would make.

I learned how to format a Word document into book format. I edited my own work numerous times. I designed the cover. I reread my work more than once. I thought I would never get it right to my standards. I cried as I reread Gracie's story, mainly because I missed her.

I found a print-on-demand company that I could submit my book to and get it printed for a reasonable price. I eventually took a leap of faith and decided to let it be available in case others would like to read it.

At first, after I wrote For the Love of Gracie, I gave it to family and friends as a gift. I was proud of my work and hoped it would bless them. Some have praised it; others, I'm not sure if they even read it or what they think. When writing books, one must be ready for compliments or criticism.

For the Love of Gracie is special to me because I loved Gracie and miss her daily. When she passed, it seemed a little of me was lost. I integrated the KJV Holy Bible into it, and that helped me grow in God's word. I hope the book blesses others and God uses it for His glory.

Maybe someday I'll be a famous writer; for now, it is a hobby. There is a lot to learn in writing, publishing, marketing, and selling. Too much for my mind to grasp all at once. Dreams never hurt to aim high, and who knows what the future holds. For now, writing feels good and brings me joy.

Welcome to my first blog entry. This too is a learning process. I hope my words encourage you and bless you.