Why I'm Networking, Before Publishing

There are many of us “aspiring writers.” Some dream of one day starting that dream project. Some don’t tell a soul what they’re up to. Some are convinced that they know what they’re doing.
I’m a ways away from publishing. Editing takes time and concentration. Those two things don’t always exist in the same space. I’m making an attempt to do it all, be a mother and a writer. Some days are better than others.

Currently, I’m piecing together chapter ten, out of twenty eight. When I’m not writing, or editing, or actively wrangling children, I read & review. A majority of what I’ve been reading has been independently published, or published through small press.

I’ve made some pretty awesome connections, over the last couple of years! I’m learning by watching what these more experienced writers do. I love that they take the time to interact with their readers. I hope to be as inspiring as they are, some day.

So why am I presenting myself to the world as a writer, before there’s any physical proof? Well for one, if I talk about it, it’s harder to not go through with it. If I surround myself with people who have already done it, if I read and review their work, than maybe, just maybe, they’ll do the same for me.
There is, I suppose, the possibility, that my work will never see the light of day. But if that happens, I’m not going to stop reading and reviewing independent writers.

If you don’t buy their books, it’s that much harder for them to publish. The more you read, the more they write. Reviews help draw in other readers, making those authors more money, which translates into even more books. If I use the network that I’m building now (admittedly, for my own gain), to spread the word about the crazy good books I’m reading, it means more books for everyone!