I finished my first novel when I was twelve.
Fifty-two years later, I finished my second.
Writing is my second act. This blog will share what I’m learning on the journey. I invite you to come along.
I always imagined a life writing stories. But school, work, travel and family came in between. Making a living. Helping my community. Exploring the world. Being with loved ones. I didn’t forgo writing, but I did it as a newspaper reporter, a graduate student, a political science professor.
Most of those aspects of my life remain important. But not long ago, the imperative of making a living lessened; I had the resources to retire from university teaching. And that meant the freedom to pursue my passion.
Being older, I have little patience with the traditional process of finding an agent, then waiting for an offer from a publishing house. Two or more years could pass, even if I was successful. I decided, instead, to go the indie route, using the wealth of resources, information and professional services available on-line.
It has certainly been faster; only months passed from finishing the novel to having a polished publication. And I enjoy the high creative control. Yet the process can be intimidating, confusing and exhausting. More than once, I’ve almost toppled down the steep learning curve. But I am persevering and experimenting and gradually figuring things out.
If you’re interested in being a 2nd Act Author as well, especially if you are considering independent publication, please join me. I could use your company!
N. V. Baker
Author of vanished., The Boy in the Suitcase, three non-fiction books, as well as scores of academic articles, research papers, book chapters, essays, encyclopedia entries and newspaper articles.