Inside the Mind - Debby Myers

For as long as I can remember, my grandma Gigi told me stories about her life growing up in the hills of Kentucky with her nine siblings. Her stories inspired me to write down create my own. It started in first grade when I had a short story published in Children's Digest. As young as I was, the feeling I had seeing it in print, was what brought me back to writing as an adult. I've been inspired in many ways. Before only brother passed away at just 46, he encouraged me to start again. He was also a storyteller and told me I had a gift. Then when I was diagnosed with MS ten years ago, I was forced to go on disability. With time on my hands, writing kept me from slipping into depression.

I've written and self-published three full-length novels. Vex and Valor, Verdicts and Vows, & Verve and Virtue. Due to limited resources from disability, I wasn't able to publicize or hire an agent. The books all got rave reviews locally with book signings and booth sales, but they have been stagnant since. I have been writing magazine and blog articles. My next book is a set of self-reflecting stories titled Cake Crumbs.

They are loosely based on real people. People in my life who have made an impression on me, whether it be positive or negative. I've been told my books have too many characters, but I tend to get caught up in family dynamics of generations. Occasionally, I'll see a stranger and make up a story about who they are.

My writing doesn't begin until after lunch around 1pm. By that time, I've already spent the morning looking at emails & responding, going back over what I wrote the previous day to check the editing and content, checking for new submission opportunities, posting on social media, getting showered, dressed, and finishing two cups of coffee. When I start at 1pm, I'm ready and prepped for what I'm writing that day. I try to work and write for about five hours, depending on various interruptions, before I call it a day. I write 4-5 short stories, before I go back into one of my two novels I'm working on. There are other times I spend the whole afternoon on only one project, but I try to do a little in each. I have concluded it puts my articles and short stories out there to fall back on.

For me being an indie author wasn't a choice, but a necessity. Because of the reduction in my income, I turned back to what I love - writing - to supplement. Not being able to fund an agent, publisher, editor, or marketing professional, I have tried to do it all. It's hard work that pays off whenever I get an acceptance letter or email. It is validation that I'm doing the best I can. It's rewarding seeing my words in print.

To put it simply, money has been my challenge.

My best tools are the many acquaintances I have to derive characters from. I also started this journey publishing short stories on the blog of a great friend, a tool I just happened to meet through our community theater, who is a best-selling author of Harlequin Romance novels. I don't use writing apps unless I'm looking for formatting or vocabulary tips. I love Amazon Publishing that walks you through pieces of the process.

Don't be afraid to do it yourself. It's a great springboard into learning everything it takes to publish a book and sell it. Fear will be the one thing that will hold you back. And don't expect too much to begin with. Becoming an author takes patience and creativity, as well as strength and brains.

I almost solely use social media platforms. I do look for local book fairs and signings too.

I am working on a book titled 'Cake Crumbs.' It's called that because I love cake and whenever I eat it, I don't leave a single crumb behind. This new book of self-reflecting stories of my own experiences and memories won't leave anything about me behind. Thank you!