Happy St. Patty’s and Happy 1 year anniversary to Wolves in Skirts!!!!

Did you know that I am a two-time author and today I am celebrating my 1-year anniversary for my most recent installation in the Wolf Series, Wolves in Skirts…Let the Exposing Begin?

One year ago, today I released my second book- Wolves in Skirts…Let the Exposing Begin. I released my first book, Wolves in Suits…What your mamma didn’t tell you and your friends don’t know in 2016. Can you believe that it took me 4 years to complete my second book? I am not sure why, but heartbreak can sometimes fuel the creative spirit. My first book came two years after a heartbreak (damn, let that hurt go bae), and my second book came a year after a bad breakup.

I am still in awe that I finished and published a book during the pandemic. After being laid off from my job I had time. Pre-COVID I kept allowing work to be my excuse for procrastination and not finishing up the book. COVID gave me time to think. Despite the bad breakup, I had to be honest with myself- what role did I play? My biggest role was a lack of boundaries. Writing this book was therapy for me and a means to hold myself accountable. Through the years, I created a focus group of amazing women, and we share our experiences with relationships, friendships, and heartbreak. From there Wolves in Skirts was born.

I used these simple steps to help me finish my book.

Step 1. I decided what I wanted to write about. The Wolf series is all about identifying red flags in relationships and holding ourselves accountable for our behaviors and the decisions that we make. Every book in this series is for self-improvement, given to the reader in a relatable, entertaining, and witty way. Each chapter is based on a true love story and some of these stories, bayyybaaaayy; they are juicy!

Step 2. Next, I created an outline to organize my thoughts. This outline served as my table of contents and book chapters later.

Step 3. I got those fingers moving in a WORD document. When I wasn’t in the mood to write I would get myself in the mood with a chill playlist, some candles, and sometimes a cocktail.

Step 4. The book cover! Lord I had a time with this one. Longer the short, I originally hired someone to do a book cover and I was not pleased at all. I found another artist and I loved his professionalism and prompt feedback. He was very patient with me as the idea for the cover changed a few times. My first book cover was risque and I wanted the second one to have the same energy. If you need a book cover I would highly recommend James Scales. On IG he is @inspire_creative_solutions and his email is james@creativescaledesigns.com

Step 5. I started to create promos and teasers for my upcoming book. The key is to get people excited‼️ Even before the actual book cover was ready, I utilized IG’s poll and question feature in the stories to get people excited with compelling questions about relationships, self-improvement, and recognizing toxic behaviors.

Step 6. After I was done writing, I created a small focus group of beta readers to read the book and provide feedback. I went with five people that I really trusted. Simultaneously, I submitted my book for copywriting. This is an easy process and cost me about $135. Protect your work and your legacy!

Step7: I took some of the feedback from the beta readers into consideration and made the changes I wanted.

Step 8. I hired a black-owned business for my editorial services called Porter’s Proofreading. Here is their info on IG: @portersproofreading

Step 9. I already knew that I wanted to self-publish from the positive experience I had with my first book. So, I added the copyright information, finalized the cover, made the editor’s changes, and got my book ready for distribution.

Step 10. I published my book and had it distributed through Lulu. I would recommend this printing company. They are professional, helpful, and I love their global distribution setup. Global distribution is when you as the author agree to have your book distributed on other platforms such as Amazon, Walmart, Barnes and Noble, and even Target. Their information is www.lulu.com.

Thinking of writing a book?

Good luck and don't procrastinate! There is a message inside of you that will be a blessing to someone else!

If you would like to purchase either of my books, click below.

Thank you in advance!