I've officially written three books!!
To some, three books isn't that many, but to me it's still so surreal that each one of these worlds with different made up characters came from inside my mind. From the tiny details that made an impact on the plot or the character, I came up with and I can hold their whole lives inside my hands between pages.
In a world of artificial generated pieces created by capitalistic corporations, I can say that I was the artist and word smith that came up with Alan, Lee, Jay, Nova, Kay, Andrew, Candi, and other characters all on my own.
Even after two years of being a published author, this feeling is the same after my debut novel. Excitement, anxiety, relief, and gratification all at once.
I have to remember, that no matter if people can't see what I publish because a social media app doesn't want to push my art, I see it and I'm proud of it. Frankly, that's what really matters.
#lorienray #DarkLit #horrorreaders #indiehorrorbooks #indieauthor
Writing three books is no small feat, especially when each novel contains a fully formed world and a cast of characters born entirely from your imagination. From my own experience, the creative process feels like both a blessing and a challenge. You nurture each character with backstories, quirks, and motivations that make them feel real even though they exist only on the page. In a market often saturated with mass-produced content, holding onto your originality is crucial. Like the author who created characters such as Alan, Lee, Jay, Nova, Kay, Andrew, and Candi, I’ve found that crafting unique voices and stories sets my work apart. Despite the rise of AI-generated writing, there’s something deeply rewarding about knowing your words are truly your own artistry. Navigating the publishing world as an indie author also brings mixed emotions. Excitement when your book launches, anxiety about how it will be received, and a sense of relief and pride once it's done. Social media algorithms and platforms sometimes limit the reach of our work, but self-validation remains key. Regardless of external recognition, the satisfaction of holding a physical book with your name on it—representing your creative effort—is incomparable. For writers building their careers, embracing this journey helps maintain motivation. It reminds us to celebrate every milestone, whether it’s completing another draft, publishing a new book, or simply connecting with readers who appreciate your stories. Sharing your journey openly, including the ups and downs, strengthens community bonds and inspires others to keep pursuing their creative dreams in a world that often favors the automated over the authentic.
I love your post. I found this poem a while back and fell in love with it. I do not know who the author is but your story above brought it back to mind. I hope it inspires you as much as it did me. Keep writing. I will keep reading ☺️ Though the path is steep and the night is cold, and dreams feel heavy, a story untold. When exhaustion whispers to just lie down, and doubt attempts to take the crown. Feed the ember, keep it bright, ambition burns by inner light. Not in the peak, but the climb itself, is found the treasure, the truest wealth. With every step, let passion rise, to touch the edges of the skies. Through sweat and struggle, stay the course, a steadfast heart, a silent force. Rise from the dust, with spirit bold, your story waits for you to unfold. One step, one breath, the goal to see, to be the best of all you can be.