Page 103 of After All This Time

We’re writers.

We’re editors.

We’re social media managers.

We’re social media content creators.

We’re cover designers.

Despite how exhausting it can be, it’s all worth it to get our stories out in the world.

It’s funny because I’m horrible at making content to market my book.

I knew the person I wanted to reach out to and make content for me right away.

Violet Prescott was the only person to pop into my mind because I’ve seen her posts. She loves what she does and it’s evident through her content.

When I asked her to create content for my book, she jumped at the chance. She was one of my first readers because I wanted her to see if she’d like it first since she’s typically a romance reader.

I remember when I asked her to do this for me and she asked me if there was any romance in it. She was sold when I told her there was, and she actually enjoyed it which surprised the hell out of me.

Violet started out making content for me for free which I was grateful for at the time, but now I pay her on a monthly basis. She deserves it because she does admin and design work for me as my personal assistant.

I don’t think I would survive without her.

On the flip side, I’ve discovered how challenging mystery thrillers are to write. It’s ironic considering they’re so much fun to read. It’s such a different experience when I’m reading someone else’s story versus when I’m writing my own because I’m reading someone else’s words rather than reading my own as I write.

I’ve learned a lot about what makes a mystery thriller good from all the books I’ve read.

Twists and turns are essential, but foreshadowing is vital. It doesn’t have to be anything major. Subtle hints here and there are enough because you don’t want to give away the entire plot to the reader.

I knew when I wanted to write Expect the Unexpected that I’d need to plot first. I needed to see where the story would take me, so I plotted out each chapter and what scenes I wanted to be in them.

As I sit here and edit, I can feel Dad’s presence lingering over me.

If I can place the blame on someone for my addiction to the mystery and thriller genres, it would be him.

I was in middle school when he introduced me to the genre. I became obsessed with how immersive these books can be and how they have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

When I told my dad I wanted to write one, he was incredibly supportive. There was never a time when he told me I couldn’t do it or that it would be impossible.

I’ve been struggling with my dedication for my debut, but now I know what I want to do.

I’m dedicating this book to my dad because it wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for him.

If you’re here Dad, this book is for you.

Everything I do has always been for you.

CHAPTER FORTY

dani

Sneak attack.

Target acquired.

I let go of Mom’s hands, tiptoeing my way into the kitchen and sneaking up behind Noah.

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