With the cancer diagnosis, I honestly haven’t had time for much else. With trying to make ends meet, and trying to continue working, I’m exhausted when I get home, so writing and working on books doesn’t take priority. I wish it did, but when you’ve got something as heavy as cancer in your mind, it eclipses most other things.

However, I’m reaching for normalcy. I’m trying to get writing back on track and see what I can work on increasing readership.

Book-wise, the biggest update is that Stolen Innocence is being revised and a new edition will replace the old one! The story stays the same, so if you already have book one, there will be minor changes to existing scenes, and maybe a few added scenes here and there. I’ve yet to decide if I’m going to do Safe Haven as well, but Safe Haven was written more recently.

The reason is that my style and my thought processes have changed over time, and I see some glaring problems that need to be smoothed out and made more realistic. The scenes work as written, but I like the changes. For example, instead of talking about Kieran doing surgery, the scene turns into watching him do the surgery. Yes, researched how to do brain surgery, of course. Probably the least suspicious of my google searches. Ahem.

So, what do we have? Well, we’ve got Chasing the Silver Dragon! It will be up shortly and available! The whole three parts are combined in one convenient book for you to purchase. Chasing the Silver Dragon is the first book in the Dragon Trinity Cycle, and the first release for the Supernatural St. Louis universe.

What has come out? Well, Sea of Stars, the first book in the Silken Bonds series of books set in Santa Cruz. Silken Bonds, as well as Joe Town Bound and Chains of Fate, are all interconnected in the Healing Bonds universe. You never know when you’ll see a familiar face or two!

All information is available at my website for the books!

Bev's Website

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In this heartfelt episode, Bev openly discusses the physical and emotional challenges of starting cancer treatment, from hair loss to managing nausea. She breaks down the specific medications she’s using like Taxol and Carboplatin and explains how she’s preparing for common side effects. You’ll discover the importance of side effect management strategies, including the role of immune-boosting shots and the timing of treatments that can make the process smoother. Bev also offers practical insights into balancing work and health during this intense period, sharing her plans to stay connected and proactive.

We dive into what happens behind the scenes in how medical teams coordinate medications and monitor different health markers like platelets and white blood cell counts. Bev’s experience highlights why understanding these medical details can empower you or your loved ones facing similar health challenges. She emphasizes the incredible resilience you can summon when armed with knowledge and a positive mindset, even when treatment plans get tough.

This episode is perfect for anyone navigating or supporting someone through cancer treatment. It’s a candid reminder that even in the most daunting moments, staying informed and prepared offers hope, control, and a chance to thrive. If you’re seeking real, actionable insights plus a touch of warmth and encouragement, then you’re in the right place.

The Phoenix Nest

I, luckily, have good insurance, however I’m missing a lot of work for this. I thought of a GoFundMe, but I’d rather do something like this where I get something, and so do the people helping me. I’ve set up an entirely new website for selling Swag Boxes, Digital Packs, and Book Boxes.

Each sale goes to supporting me in my journey to become cancer free. I have lots of merchandise, and these boxes will be packed, probably with more than it says on the website.

What are some of these things you can buy? Check out the gallery below.

Again, I don’t want to be the person to ask for free money, even when I need it, but I want to sell folks something they can keep and enjoy. There’s nothing wrong with community mutual aid, but I just feel like if I can earn money with products sitting in my storage area, that is a good idea. I love making them, but I can’t make any more until these sell!

If you can’t buy, please spread the word to your friends. I can’t make it to craft fairs due to chemo, so I won’t have a real way to sell these products other than these boxes.

Thanks to everyone who reads these emails, and follows A Teal Journey or Book Talk. I appreciate every one of you.

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In this episode, I’m talking about what’s coming up very soon, like port placement (tomorrow!) and chemo this Wednesday. Next episode after port placement and before chemo.

OCCC is rare, only making up 10-12% of cases of ovarian cancer in the United Stats. There are higher rates in Asia. OCCC is also one of the most aggressive forms of ovarian cancer, however it also is most often caught in stage I or II.

There are some mutations, which you can look up on the below sites, and these mutations make OCCC act differently than other ovarian cancers.

Commonly, the symptoms of OCCC are mistaken for other things. They include pelvic or abdominal pain, bloating or distention of the abdomen, urinary frequency, and fatigue. They’re vague things that are so common and often dismissed by doctors. Pelvic pain? Cramps, you’ll be fine. Bloating? Eat better. Urinary frequency? Well, you’re getting older. Fatigue? Work on sleep hygiene.

Interestingly, other than the abdominal pain (except my ER trip), I had the other symptoms. I’ve had urinary problems for years, and actually have a bladder stimulator. I do wonder now if they are related. It’s still an issue after surgery, so I’m not certain.

Fatigue I’ve been struggling with quite a bit for a while. Interestingly, endometriosis causes it as well. And since I had that for who knows how long, it is possible that that might have triggered fatigue. Then, this year, when the fatigue got so much worse (something I was attributing to low iron), the cancer must have been influencing it. I was having days where I literally had to sleep at lunch before going back to work in order to make it through the day.

One of the things I luckily missed is that there is a higher risk of blood clots, and hypercalcemia (elevated calcium) is more common with OCCC. When we’re talking about the tumors, they are often large, unilateral (on one side), and look cystic with solid parts when imaging is done.

On my CT and ultrasound, the found the mass to have solid parts, which could either be a complex cyst or cancerous. At first, the cancer doc thought it was an infected ovary because there were no other signs of cancer, and my white cell count was so high, indicating infection. I also had inflammation. I’m not sure what caused that, and it hasn’t been clear either. They never did identify the source of the pain I had that night in the ER. All I know is they said there was “free fluid” in my abdomen along with the mass. Did a part of it rupture? Perhaps. It isn’t clear what happened, however, if it had not happened, it might have been months that allowed the cancer to continue to progress.

In my pre surgery bloodwork, my CA-125 had settled down from the high of nearly 3000 to under 200. The doc also ran a CA19-9, which also came back elevated. These two numbers mean a strong indication of OCCC.

The only way to get a definite diagnosis of OCCC is to have surgery and sent the tumor into pathology. At the time of my surgery, they went in and took out the right ovary and fallopian tube along with the tumor. It was sent to pathology while I was asleep. No matter the outcome, the doc was removing uterus and the other fallopian tube to limit risk of further cancer. When pathology determined it was cancerous, they removed the left ovary, the cervix, and the omentum. It stayed laparoscopic, so that helped out in the healing from the surgery.

And the outcome? Early‑stage OCCC can have outcomes equal to or better than high‑grade serous carcinoma, but advanced OCCC has worse outcomes due to chemotherapy resistance. Stage I has about an 85% survival rate. This means that my outlook is very good. Catching it this early, while it was contained to the ovary alone, is good for this.

Chemo will start soon, and I’m prepared to the whole thing. It’s not going to be fun; I know that. However I will be ready for it. More updates coming up as things progress.

Citations

PathologyOutlines.com. “Ovary – Clear Cell Carcinoma.”

National Cancer Institute. “Ovarian Epithelial, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneal Cancer Treatment (PDQ®) – Health Professional Version.”

American Cancer Society. “Ovarian Cancer.”

Kuroda, T. et al. “Clear cell carcinoma of the ovary: a clinical and molecular perspective.” International Journal of Clinical Oncology (2020).

Anglesio, M. et al. “Clear cell carcinoma of the ovary: molecular insights and future therapeutic directions.” Gynecologic Oncology (2011).

Sugiyama, T. et al. “Clinical characteristics of clear cell carcinoma of the ovary: a distinct histologic type with poor prognosis and resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy.” Cancer (2000).

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD). “Ovarian Cancer.”

World Health Organization (WHO). “Female Genital Tumours – WHO Classification of Tumours, 5th Edition.”

It was a cancerous tumor. I don’t know what stage or type of tumor yet, but the doctor is pretty much sure it started in the ovary and didn’t spread from somewhere else. She didn’t see any indications that it had spread anywhere else, so at this time it looks like the cancer has been fully removed.

Of course, it doesn’t end there. Generally, even after removal, chemo is necessary to kill off any remaining cancer cells. After that, they generally prescribe a maintenance drug for long-term use to prevent recurrence.

Like I said, I’m hopeful. I believe they got everything out, and removed all the other reproductive bits. I’m sore as hell, and on hydrocodone, but eventually the pain will fade. I’m not looking forward to chemo, but I’ll do what has to be done.

I want to thank everyone for their support and keeping up with me on this journey. It will be ongoing for a while. I’ll be doing posts as we go forward for health as well as regular newsletter selections.

Much love,

Bev

They will also be removing both fallopian tubes, my uterus, and Bob’s ovary. As long as it is not cancerous/precancerous, they will leave my other ovary to avoid me going into immediate menopause.

Currently, the theory is that Bob is an infected ovary instead of cancer, though cancer cannot be eliminated until the pathology is done (I will know as soon as I wake up what Bob is).

Bob is sitting at the top of my uterus and extends up, encompassing the ovary. It is indeterminant if Bob IS the ovary or ON the ovary.

The signs do not point to cancer, however. There is no involvement of my lymph nodes, which is common with cancer. I have an extremely high white count, which even a month after my ER visit is still over 10k. This is another sign of infection, not cancer. And there is inflammation throughout my body, which also does not occur with cancer, but does with chronic infection.

If it is an infection, my iron levels may also be an indication. I have done some research on some of t he big sites (Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, etc) and it is sometimes a result of infection to have low iron and high ferratin like I have.

My hematology bloodwork was done last week, and the iron is lower than before, and my ferritin is still high. I’m not seeing him until after the surgery (supposed to on January 5, but depends on how I’m feeling).

Bob is still an asshole, though. I spent much of Christmas playing Cards against Humanity with one of my kids, my roommate, and a friend, and laughed so hard Bob hurt. However, it was a good time.

My oldest is still struggling with the situation and worried. I find it interesting how deeply he cares because he rarely shows it. He talks to me where he doesn’t talk to other people much aside from his boyfriend who lives in Canada. He is AuDHD, like me, and he generally doesn’t show much emotion, though he feels them very intensely. I’ve tried to involve him in more stuff with me, and he’s been enjoying it a lot. He likes to go to stores with me, go out to eat, and drive around to look at things. Unlike my younger son, he likes to leave the house.

But anyway, I tried to assure him of the above, and he’s coming to my blood test/ekg appointment on Monday, and the day of surgery.

Overall, I’m encouraged, and I appreciate those of you who have reached out. The only unfortunate thing is that I will only have partial paychecks for the weeks I’m out due to some short term disability insurance I have. I’ve thought of doing an indiegogo or a gofundme, but I don’t know if anyone would be willing to buy/donate to it so I can get through the next couple months.

Also, I’ve named the mass Bob. And Bob is an asshole. But I have an eviction date for Bob. December 31st!

They’re going to go in laparoscopically at first, remove Bob, then send him to pathology while I’m still under. They’re going to find out WHAT Bob is (she’s not 100% sure what he is, but she thinks maybe an infected ovary due to having inflammation and a 22k white count, but cancer and precancerous is still possible). So, what they’ll do is remove the fallopian tubes, the ovary Bob is attached to, Bob, of course, and my uterus. If it is cancerous or precancerous, the other ovary comes out too.

So, best case scenario, Bob is just an annoying infection or something else benign. I really appreciate everyone’s support, because even if it isn’t cancer, it’s still a big problem, and may be the source of all my symptoms.

I do also see the hematologist here to check on what the iron infusions did and talk about that. So that’s not something I’m looking forward to since the infusions didn’t seem to help much.

But anyway, a light in the darkness, as they say. :)

I was in the car and my smart shuffle randomly chose this song today. I started bawling like a baby, and it still brings me to tears.

There was a time, I was runnin’ through hell
Never thought I’d make it out alive
Don’t understand how I cheated death
But I made it to the other side

Oh, why love a girl like me?
Oh, why love a boy like you?
Oh, yeah

I know the ups and downs are strange
(I know, the ups and downs are strange)
You are more than enough, don’t change
(You are more than enough)
Don’t let the demons get you down
You’ll be where nothing can break you
When love is on your side, it’s a beautiful life

There was a time I was willin’ to die
I stopped believin’ in myself
Heaven said, that it wasn’t my time
We found a way for you to help

Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, save a boy like me
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, save a girl like you
Oh, yeah

I know the ups and downs are strange
(I know, the ups and downs are strange)
You are more than enough, don’t change
(You are more than enough)
Don’t let the demons get you down
You’ll be where nothing can break you
When love is on your side, it’s a beautiful life

Oh-oh, oh-oh, yeah, ah
Ah-ah, yeah
Oh-oh, oh-oh, yeah
Ah, yeah

I know the ups and downs are strange
(I know, the ups and downs are strange)
You are more than enough, don’t change
(You are more than enough)

Don’t let the demons get you down
Down, oh yeah
You’ll be where nothing can break you
When love is on your side
When love is on your side, it’s a beautiful life
It’s a beautiful life

Also I appreciate all the support on this. I am making it. I’m waiting to get an appointment with the oncologist at the cancer center. Still in a bit of pain, but I was prescribed prescription Naproxen, which has been helping. I just want to get the path ahead outlined, you know, and this waiting is the worst part. I don’t really care if it is cancer, just do surgery, get it out, and put me in chemo. At least I can fight it. Right now, I just feel at a loss.

I swear, not knowing is so damn hard. I just want answers, and this is taking far too long.

Updates on the situation will be continuing to come. I don’t know how much book related stuff will happen on here, but I’m trying to live as normally as I can, despite all this.

I’m editing the first book in the Silken Bonds series as well as the second book in the Legacy of the Phoenix. I hope to release ARCs for both in January at the latest for both of them.

I may be posting a gofundme, because I don’t know how I’m going to make it when I have surgery. I’ll have to be out off work, and I don’t have a lot of sick time or vacation time due to having to take off so much this year with all the other symptoms I’ve been trying to figure out the cause of.

So, I hope you don’t mind these updates. I’ll be emailing them about once a week, along with book stuff if I can come up with the energy for it.

Thank you for being here.

Then this Sunday (11/30/25) had sudden pain around my hips. Called the nurse line and she said to go to the ER if it lasted over two hours. I’d just had a colonoscopy, endoscopy, and camera study of the small intestines, all of which came out clear. Not even a polyp. Ten years until the next colonoscopy. So, maybe something like a gastric thing? I didn’t know. Then I laid down on the bed, and couldn’t get up for the pain. Something was definitely wrong. I called the nurse line and she said go to the ER.

I got there, thinking maybe it was nothing. But I was having trouble breathing and the pain wouldn’t go away. They offered Morphine, and I went ahead and took it before they sent me for CT scan, figuring I’d be moving around. It didn’t do anything for the pain. They did the CT and the results came back in a while and the doctor tells me there’s a mass on my ovary and fluid in there so I need to do sonograms. Off to the sonogram room. Did both kinds (if you’re a woman/AFAB you know what I mean). Send me back. Then waiting again.

Now he comes back and says that the mass is present but it could be a complex cyst (one that has its own blood flow, or something besides fluid in it), but it may be something else. He talked to the gynecologist on duty and they sent me home with instructions to follow up with my regular gynecologist.

I call the next morning because like hell was I going to work as the night was a rough one of trying to sleep with it. I went in for a blood test, and she said she would refer me to a nearby gynecologic oncologist. The blood test was a Cancer Antigen 125. Tests for ovarian cancer markers. This morning, I woke up to the test results in my little charting app, and I opened them. The number, over 2000. I looked up what it was supposed to be. Under 35. So, that means it is almost certain to be ovarian cancer.

So, now I’m starting a journey I never wanted to go on, and I’m inviting you along with me. I’ll be recording what happens, and progress toward beating this thing. I am stronger than cancer, and I’m going to prove it.

Starting 11/20/25

Diagnosis: Not official yet.

CA 125: 2969

Understanding the Mental Health Challenges Authors Face

Being an author is a dream for many, but the pressures that come with it can be daunting. In today’s climate, where the literary world is more competitive than ever, many writers struggle with increased anxiety and stress. This environment can negatively impact an author’s mental health, leading to burnout and creative blocks. Writer’s block is a serious issue for many, and while some people do not accept that it is a real thing, it is a very real and debilitation issue for many writers who are struggling with mental health and challenges associated with these problems. Acknowledging and addressing these challenges is crucial for anyone who wishes to thrive in their writing journey.

Coping Strategies for Authors

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that every writer is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. However, some coping strategies can be beneficial for most authors. Setting realistic goals and breaking projects into manageable tasks can alleviate overwhelm. Taking regular breaks to step away from writing can rejuvenate creativity and reduce stress levels. Another way is to take a break from your primary piece to work on other pieces of writing. Instead of focusing on your novel, take a break and write an outline for another book, or a quick novella that is about a subject that rejuvenates you. If you’re writing heavy, dark pieces, maybe switch things up and write a light slice of life story. It doesn’t have to be complete, and it may just be for fun, but taking a break and changing your perspective can help.

Additionally, developing a personal self-care routine can significantly impact overall well-being. This can include anything from exercise and meditation to simply reading a good book. Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for maintaining mental health, particularly in the demanding world of authorship.

One of the ways to help things out is performing mindfulness. Mindfulness is all about staying in the present, and not living in the future or the past. It is also all about doing one thing and one thing only. Multitasking is the greatest lie of our century. We only have so much focus as humans, and when you have 100% focus on one task, you can do it to the best of your ability. When you split that focus up, giving half to one task and half to another, you do not do either task to the best of your ability anymore. At the core of mindfulness, it is about attaining that focus and throwing ourselves wholly into what we are doing, without judgement either.

Building a Support Network

Connecting with other writers can create a support system that fosters understanding and solidarity. Joining writer groups, whether locally or online, allows authors to share their experiences and challenges. Support can also come from friends and family who understand the author’s passion and trials. It’s essential to communicate openly about struggles with mental health—this can help in both alleviating feelings of isolation and fostering connections that can lead to collaborative opportunities.

Be aware, and careful, when joining groups online. It takes an entire post to talk about this, but there are scammers and people who will prey on those that don’t understand the book world very well. If you are knew, always vet people with other authors, and if you can, check sources like Writer Beware. Almost all people who send you messages are phishing or scamming, and you have to be wary. A deal that seems too good to be true, most likely is.

Also, seeking professional help is a positive step for any author facing significant mental health issues. Therapists or counselors can provide tailored strategies and support, offering a safe space to explore thoughts and feelings. Even the healthiest person in the world can benefit from therapy. Whether it is simply talking to an objective person, or learning skills to help you make it through your day to day life, therapists can offer different things to different people.

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness

As the conversation about mental health continues to evolve, it’s vital for authors to feel empowered to discuss their experiences. Raising awareness about the mental health challenges faced in the literary community helps destigmatize these issues. By sharing personal stories, authors not only promote their own healing but also inspire others to seek help and advocate for better mental health practices within the industry.

Opening up about your mental health can be difficult, and seem impossible, but if you show one person that they can also make it while struggling to deal with the same issues, it will go a long way to help with things for them.

In conclusion, writing in today’s climate can be a double-edged sword, with both beautiful opportunities and daunting challenges. It’s essential for authors to prioritize their mental health by utilizing coping strategies, fostering supportive networks, and embracing help when needed. Remember, taking care of your mind is just as important as nurturing your writing. Your mental health is a priority on the journey to becoming the successful author you aspire to be.

Understanding the Wide Publishing Model

In today’s rapidly evolving publishing landscape, the term ‘going wide’ refers to the strategy employed by authors to distribute their works across multiple platforms and retailers rather than limiting their availability to a single outlet, such as Amazon. This wider approach enables authors to reach diverse readerships, maximizing their visibility and potential sales opportunities.

The benefits of adopting a wide publishing model are substantial. First and foremost, by making books accessible on various platforms, authors can tap into distinct markets, catering to different reader preferences and behaviors. Unlike exclusive distribution models, where content is confined to one platform, going wide allows authors to utilize not only major players like Apple Books and Barnes & Noble but also niche marketplaces that cater to specific genres and audiences, such as Smashwords and Kobo. This strategic distribution can lead to increased discovery, helping authors connect with readers who might otherwise be unaware of their work. Remember, there are many people who refuse to buy from Amazon, and those readers are completely ignorant of an author’s work if they are exclusive to that platform, and they may never read them.

The rise of indie publishing has further bolstered the opportunity for authors to embrace this wide model. With the advent of self-publishing tools and services, a growing number of writers now have the autonomy to publish and distribute their works on their terms. This shift has democratized the publishing process, allowing indie authors to harness traditional marketing tactics alongside innovative strategies prevalent in broader publishing scenarios. Consequently, it has fostered a rich ecosystem where creativity can thrive, and authors can cultivate their unique brands across multiple platforms.

By understanding the wide publishing model, authors can better strategize their distribution efforts. The potential for increased engagement and revenue reflects the changing dynamics of the industry, making it essential for contemporary authors to consider going wide as a viable pathway in their publishing journey.

Choosing the Right Platforms for Distribution

In the competitive landscape of self-publishing, selecting the appropriate distribution platforms is critical for small and indie authors to expand their reach and maximize their book sales. Among the well-established resources, Smashwords, Draft2Digital, Ingram Spark, and Kobo stand out as viable choices, each offering distinct advantages tailored to different author needs.

Smashwords is renowned for its comprehensive distribution network. By enabling authors to publish eBooks across multiple markets, it serves as a versatile platform for those seeking to reach a wide audience. Authors can utilize Smashwords’ premium catalog, which enables their titles to be distributed to major retailers and libraries, broadening their potential readership. Moreover, Smashwords’ user-friendly format allows authors to convert manuscripts into various eBook formats, simplifying the publishing process.

Draft2Digital also provides an appealing option for indie authors. This platform focuses on user experience, offering straightforward tools for formatting and publishing eBooks. What distinguishes Draft2Digital is its seamless integration with various distributors, including Apple Books and Barnes & Noble. Additionally, authors have access to insightful sales reporting, allowing them to track their performance across different platforms. This data can prove invaluable in refining marketing strategies and reaching targeted demographics effectively.

Ingram Spark is a distributor that many small publishers utilize and is available to indie authors as well. This is an excellent place as an alternative to the print options at Amazon, or in addition to if you want to use both sites. Ingram Spark has an extremely wide distribution net and enables authors to get their print books in several formats, including hardbacks with laminate covers or slip covers like many traditionally published books. For the indie author, there are tools on the site that will guide you through the setup and give you options to create your covers.

Kobo, on the other hand, is particularly popular in international markets, making it a smart choice for authors aiming for a global audience. Kobo’s partnership with independent bookstores and libraries enhances its distribution potential, appealing to readers who prefer purchasing eBooks from local sources. Furthermore, Kobo’s valuable insights into reader preferences can assist authors in tailoring their marketing efforts to align with audience trends.

Ultimately, understanding audience demographics and preferences plays an essential role in selecting the right distribution platforms. By leveraging the unique features offered by these platforms, small and indie authors can effectively increase their visibility and connect with readers worldwide.

Marketing Strategies for Wide Distribution

For small and indie authors aiming for a wider audience, effective marketing strategies are essential. Using social media platforms such as Facebook, Bluesky, Pinterest, Threads, X, and Instagram can significantly boost visibility and engagement. These platforms allow authors to share content not only about their books but also insight into their writing process, personal anecdotes, and interactions with readers. Establishing a strong social media presence helps in building an author brand that resonates with potential readers.

Additionally, author newsletters serve as a direct line of communication with readers. Through these newsletters, authors can share updates, exclusive content, and promotional offers. Sign-ups for newsletters should be encouraged at every opportunity, especially during book launches or special promotions. This strategy fosters a sense of belonging among readers and encourages them to engage with your work on a deeper level. There are various platforms where you can have newsletters available to readers all the time, and some with paid services and tiers such as Substack and Ghost. Other newsletter services, Mailchimp, Mailerlite, etc, are services that send the newsletter just to the recipient’s email and it does not have a site where you can easily navigate through past newsletters.

Another effective marketing strategy for indie authors is to utilize book marketing websites. Websites such as BookBub or Goodreads can help in promoting a book to targeted audiences actively seeking new reads. Participating in promotional giveaways or discounts through these platforms can enhance the visibility of a book, driving more traffic and sales.

Advance Reader Copies are often the lifeblood of a book, providing reviews upon release day, as well as a steady stream of readers. Places such as Booksprout, Book Sirens, Pubby, Netgalley, Prolific Works, and Story Origin offer a chance to give out copies of your book in exchange for those newsletter sign ups or ARC reviews. These can be emphasized by use of Bookfunnel to send out ARC campaigns, copies of your book as gifts, and more.

Furthermore, cross-promotion strategies between authors can be beneficial. By collaborating with fellow authors, whether through joint promotions or shared mailing lists, indie authors can tap into each other’s readerships, thus expanding their reach exponentially. Building relationships within the writing community can open doors to numerous opportunities for visibility. Facebook, Mewe, Bluesky, and other social media sites are places where authors can support each other by resharing the posts from other authors, liking their book posts, and interacting with them. The more interactions with social media, the better because it boosts the author’s posts by enhancing the algorithm and showing that it is a popular post.

Selling direct is always an option, and there are plenty ways to do this. From using the features native to your website builder, to posting on sites that work with authors, these things are essential to maximizing profits. Sites like Payhip, Ko-Fi, Fourth Wall, Gumroad, Fictionate, and Laterpress offer authors the ability to get their books into the hands of readers without taking a larger cut to their profits. Subscription services are another alternative that allows authors to give themselves a new income stream, one that is steady and useful. Ream and Inkspired are two of the available sites for this, though as this type of work gains popularity, the availability of this type of service will no doubt increase. Of course, Patreon is another option to get great deals on books and freebies/swag from authors. Also, check for author related Kickstarters and other crowdfunding campaigns.

Engaging with readers through events such as book signings, webinars, or online Q&A sessions can further enhance an author’s visibility. Joining cross promotion group activities such as “parties” and “hops” on Facebook and other communities where readers might be is also a strategy that can be employed. Connecting with readers in person or virtually creates a loyal audience base that will likely support future projects. Readers love to interact with their favorite authors, and one way to build these readers who tell others about your work is to foster relationships with them.

Building a Supportive Community and Resources

As small and indie authors seek to broaden their reach, the establishment of a supportive network is essential. Engaging with fellow writers can provide guidance, inspiration, and resources crucial for navigating the complexities of independent publishing. Online communities, such as social media groups and dedicated forums, create spaces where authors can share experiences, seek advice, and celebrate milestones. Platforms like Facebook and Goodreads have numerous groups specifically designed for indie authors, fostering collaboration and discussion on various aspects of the writing journey.

Moreover, author groups and local writing workshops often offer workshops, feedback sessions, and networking opportunities. These settings encourage growth through learning and sharing of best practices. Participating in such gatherings allows authors to not only hone their craft but also form lasting relationships that can lead to collaborative projects. These partnerships can drive innovation and expand potential audiences, enhancing visibility in a competitive landscape.

Besides interactive groups, various resources are available to further aid indie authors in their quest to go wide. Webinars led by industry experts can provide up-to-date insights on publishing trends, marketing strategies, and distribution options. Additionally, podcasts focusing on the experiences of successful indie authors can serve as motivational tools, imparting valuable lessons and practical tips. Blogs that offer advice on indie publishing often feature guest posts from established authors, enriching the content available to aspiring writers. By utilizing these resources and engaging with a community of like-minded individuals, authors can gain valuable insights and strengthen their resolve on the path to becoming widely recognized in the literary world.

Beware of Scammers

Of course, there are also scams out there to look out for. Every day, authors receive messages in their direct messages from “marketers” and “book promoters” and other so called writing professionals. Most of these are predatory. The fake marketers, book promoters, agents, and others will gladly take your money and leave you with nothing. So, is there anyone to be trusted out there? Sure, there are legitimate people that do these things for authors. From scheduling interviews and podcasts, to making parties and hops for authors to participate in, these services can be found. However, you must do your due dilligence to investigate the person you’re thinking of working with. Nearly everyone who ends up in your DMs is a scam artist, as none of these professionals are going to reach out to unknown authors. Unless your books are selling in the tens of thousands, these people will not notice you.

How do you find these professionals, then? That’s not an easy task, but word of mouth from other authors is key (and not that semi-famous author that send you a random friend request and now wants you to send a message to their marketer. That’s a common scam too). Agents are not going to find you, as finding an agent is a long and arduous process that can take years sometimes. If you’re not using query tracker, you should be if you’re in the search for an agent.

Anyone you work with should be able to give you references. And if that reference is a somewhat well-known author, go to that author’s website and find their contact info. Nearly all the time, they will be willing to let you know if this person has really worked with them, and what their opinion on them is. If someone tells you that you don’t need to talk to their references, that’s a big red flag. PAs or Personal Assistants are another category of people you can get to help you with your work, and again, you need to be wary and see references and examples of their work before you dedicate money to them.

In Sum, Change Needs to Happen

Sticking all your eggs in one basket is dangerous. With different situations leading to places being boycotted by various groups, and people who feel ethically obliged to use or not use certain services, the days of exclusivity to one platform are long gone. Kindle Unlimited has greatly reduced the amount they pay authors, and Amazon has always taken a huge swath out of what authors make. Their services is shoddy, and getting author copies has always been a gamble, with many authors suffering from their books being damaged through bad packaging and shipping, as well as frequent misprints.

Diversification allows your books to be available to more people, and sometimes, allows you to make even more money than you have before.

One of the things that I think a lot of people in the pagan community need to do right now is stand up and be visible. A lot of what is going on right now has to do with so called Puritanism and “Christian values” that aren’t so much in in line with actual Christian teaching and more in line with the upholding of the patriarchy.

Now, this isn’t an article to bash any religion. I truly believe in the freedom of religion, and if that religion is Christianity, that’s your choice in the matter. What the issue is, of course, IS the concept of freedom of religion and Freedom FROM religion.

Our founders were Deists. They were not Christian, and sometimes, this gets forgotten in the slew of other situations going on. People will say “the founders intended” this and “the founders wanted” that, but then name some value that is held up by what they call “traditional beliefs.” The question is, of course, who started that tradition?

Traditional Beliefs

So, let’s dive into this question. What do people mean when they cry out about traditional beliefs? Well, this is a complex situation, because in essence, traditional beliefs benefit a select group of people and really no one else.

Let’s examine what those beliefs (usually) are. Note: these can vary according to where you find your information.

• Devotion to religion, in particular Christianity.

• Nationalism and patriotism.

• Nuclear families which include a mother, father, and children.

• Father is the “breadwinner,” mother is the household manager.

• Respect for authority, even when that authority is unfair or wrong.

• Limited government interference in daily life (no social programs, no social net).

• Complete independence and no reliance on others (unless you are a woman or child).

• Spare the rod, spoil the child (often combined with corporal punishment AKA abuse).

• Authoritarian parenting techniques which include “not being their friend.”

• Strong social order and hierarchy.

• Supremacy of those who “can” (of course, those who can are white, cishet Christian males)

• No deviation from heterosexuality or cisgenderism.

• No relationship structures other than the nuclear family.

• “Pull yourself up by the bootstraps” mentality.

• Poverty is the result of minorities not being able to do as well as the white majority people.

• Everyone can be successful if they try hard enough.

• Working hard is the answer to any problem including mental health problems.

Those are just a quick list I’ve compiled for this article. There may be others, in fact, I’m sure there are. One thing we should notice about this list is that everything is based in the idea of upholding the patriarchal structure of society that elevates the white, cishet, Christian man.

What do we do?

The question becomes what do we do, as people that don’t fit this above list? Just by virtue of being pagan, we are on the outside of this list. That one thing sets us in opposition to everything this ideology believes. This is something that we, as pagans, need to address. There is a great misconception that “everyone” in the United States is Christian, and there are movements to enforce it as a state mandated religion. This should be extremely important, and now more than ever, those of us who are NOT Christian need to be loud and vocal.

To deal with the ongoing assault on freedom of religion, individuals and communities must start engaging in proactive measures. First of all, as pagans, we must be fostering dialogue among diverse pagan groups as well as other religions that we can relate to, because this can promote mutual understanding and respect. We can also start organizing educational workshops that highlight the importance of religious freedom is vital. This is essential in the US since so much of our basis is on the concept of freedom of religion. We need to advocate for policy changes that protect religious expression in the government immediately; this includes lobbying for laws that specifically safeguard other minority faiths from discrimination. This includes advocating for other larger faiths no matter how small your own faith community is. Working with civil society organizations can help these efforts, creating a united front against intolerance. Finally, utilizing social media platforms to share stories and experiences can help in building solidarity and pressure for change. These things, especially social media, can help immensely.

Be loud. Be visible. Be seen.

What if I can’t do that?

Some of us are in the broom closet. A lot of times, it is a safety issue, but you can still advocate for religious freedom without revealing your pagan roots. Just stating that you believe in freedom of religion doesn’t out you as a pagan or a witch, it just means you have strong belief in the constitution of America. And you can definitely emphasize that fact. Do the above things, but don’t reveal your truth if you are not safe to do so.

Christians can help too.

If you are an ally to those of other faiths, step up. Make certain to do what’s necessary to protect the freedom of others. Call senators and house members. Put pressure on local governments. Foster relationships with other religious leaders in your local community. To be honest, Christians are in a position to USE their Christian privilege to do something great. Christians are a large swath of people in our country, and by leveraging that privilege to speak out, Christians can help lead the charge of change.

Coming This November: Blooming Camellia Blooms at Last!

We’re thrilled to announce that Blooming Camellia, the final installment of the Doctor’s Training Trilogy, is set to release this November (exact date coming soon). It’s been a wild, emotional ride and this last chapter delivers a satisfying Happy for Now ending… with a twist.

Because the story isn’t over. Not by a long shot.

While Blooming Camellia wraps up the trilogy, it also opens the door to a deeper, more tangled web of intrigue in the rest of the Chains of Fate series. You can stop here, but why miss out on the mysteries still to unfold? Questions are left unanswered, last-minute revelations dropped, and much is left untold. If you were expecting the trilogy to tie up nice and neat with a fancy bow, that’s not what happens, so be prepared!

Next in line: An Exclusive Proposition, Book One of the Kink in the City trilogy, where a new cast takes center stage, and familiar faces make surprise appearances. You’ll meet the feisty, foul-mouthed sex worker Robyn, and the stoic, handsome CEO of Vasquez Enterprises, Ricardo. A twisted story of a scared, abused boy and the man who saves him. The stakes are higher, the connections deeper, and the journey just as unforgettable.

So will the characters from Doctor’s Training reach a final Happily Ever After? There’s only one way to find out. Check out An Exclusive Proposition in December!

Stay tuned for the official release date, and of course, thank you for being part of this incredible adventure.

November:

• Blooming Camellia-Doctor’s Training Part Three

December:

• Doctor’s Training: The Complete Omnibus

• An Exclusive Proposition-Kink in the City Book One

• Chasing the Silver Dragon Part 3: Reconnect

2026:

• Chasing the Silver Dragon: Complete

• Air and the Crown

• Dark Honey

• Sea of Stars

• Rainbow Daisy

• Voiceless

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So the world turns, and so does life, right? Well, Samhain has passed, but Yule is on the way (or as most people call it, Christmas). I usually celebrate Yule on Christmas, just so it coincides with the days off from work and everyone else’s schedule. I love the holidays, and starting this weekend, the Fall/Thanksgiving (ehem, Indigenous People celebration) decorations go up.

I got some big news this month from a kiddo, and it is news that will reshape the family. It’s a big deal, and no matter what, I love them so very much for their bravery.

So, this month’s “What Do You Say?” is brought to you by: Haters.

What do you say when someone obviously hates something you do, whether social media, writing, art, whatever your thing is? Do you respond? Do you ignore/delete? How do you handle it?

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